Scheduled MonumentsEnglandDevil's Dyke ('The Launditch')

Devil's Dyke ('The Launditch')

England
List entry 1003795
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Historic England (NHLE)

Overview

History & significance

Devil's Dyke, known locally as the Launditch, is a linear earthwork of Anglo-Saxon date running through Norfolk. The dyke comprises a substantial bank and ditch formation that served defensive or territorial purposes during the early medieval period, likely constructed between the 5th and 7th centuries. Its precise original extent and function remain subjects of archaeological inquiry, though it is recognised as part of the significant network of linear earthworks characteristic of the Anglo-Saxon landscape. The monument survives today as an archaeological feature of considerable regional importance, preserving evidence of early medieval engineering and land organisation in East Anglia.

Devil's Dyke ('The Launditch') is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1003795. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Devil's Dyke ('The Launditch')?

Devil's Dyke, known locally as the Launditch, is a linear earthwork of Anglo-Saxon date running through Norfolk. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1003795.

Who is responsible for protecting Devil's Dyke ('The Launditch')?

Devil's Dyke ('The Launditch') is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic England (NHLE) — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in England. The official designation reference is 1003795.

What other scheduled monuments are near Devil's Dyke ('The Launditch')?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Deserted medieval village (1.4 km), Old Hall moated site 100m north west of Almshouse Bungalow (1.8 km), Cross in St John the Baptist's churchyard (2.3 km).

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