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The Wansdyke is a linear earthwork consisting of a bank and ditch that extends across the Wiltshire chalk downland for several miles. The monument dates to the post-Roman period, likely constructed during the fifth or sixth century, though scholarly debate continues regarding its precise chronology and purpose. The surviving section represents a significant defensive or boundary feature, possibly constructed to demarcate territorial control between Anglo-Saxon kingdoms or to protect against incursions. The earthwork's substantial engineering, with its prominent bank facing northward in many locations, suggests considerable labour investment and indicates the political or military importance of the region during the early medieval period.
Section of the Wansdyke is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1004736. View the official record →
The Wansdyke is a linear earthwork consisting of a bank and ditch that extends across the Wiltshire chalk downland for several miles. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1004736.
Section of the Wansdyke 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 1004736.
Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Adam's Grave: a long barrow on Walker's Hill (1.3 km), Swanborough Tump (5 km), Giant's Grave (Martinsell Hill) (5.9 km).
Aubrey generates in-depth historical research for any address in Britain — drawing on scheduled monument data, Domesday records, Roman heritage, PAS finds and medieval history to reveal the complete story of a landscape.
Research the area around Section of the Wansdyke