Part of the linear boundary known as the Wansdyke 210m north west of Cottles

Scheduled area

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

History & significance

The Wansdyke is a linear earthwork of considerable historical significance, extending across southern England and comprising a bank with an associated ditch. This section north-west of Cottles in Somerset forms part of the broader defensive or territorial boundary system, the dating and purpose of which have been subjects of scholarly debate, though it is generally attributed to the early medieval period. The monument consists of a substantial linear earthwork whose physical form reflects the labour investment characteristic of major public works from this era. As a scheduled ancient monument, this stretch preserves evidence of early medieval land organisation and territorial demarcation in the Somerset landscape.

Part of the linear boundary known as the Wansdyke 210m north west of Cottles is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1007010. View the official record →

Questions & answers

Other scheduled monuments within 10 km

Generate a full report for this location

Aubrey generates in-depth historical research for any address in the UK — drawing on scheduled monument data, Domesday records, Roman heritage, PAS finds and medieval history to reveal the complete story of a landscape.