Scheduled MonumentsWalesWater-break-its-neck promontory fort
Prehistoric · Promontory Fort - inland

Water-break-its-neck promontory fort

Radnorshire, Wales
Cadw SAM RD265
Period
Prehistoric
Site type
Promontory Fort - inland
Broad class
Defence
Nation
Wales
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Cadw

Overview

History & significance

Water-break-its-neck is a promontory fort situated in Radnorshire, Wales, representing an Iron Age defensive settlement of considerable regional significance. The site occupies a naturally defensible headland position, with steep slopes providing substantial natural protection that was augmented by archaeological evidence of constructed earthworks typical of Iron Age fortification practices. The fort's unusual topographical name reflects the dramatic landscape feature that characterises the promontory, where water courses have carved the terrain into a naturally fortified position well-suited to prehistoric settlement and defence.

Water-break-its-neck promontory fort is a scheduled monument protected by Cadw under reference RD265. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Water-break-its-neck promontory fort?

Water-break-its-neck is a promontory fort situated in Radnorshire, Wales, representing an Iron Age defensive settlement of considerable regional significance. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Cadw under reference RD265.

What period does Water-break-its-neck promontory fort date from?

Water-break-its-neck promontory fort dates from the prehistoric period, and is classified as a promontory fort - inland. It is one of over 32,000 scheduled monuments protected across the UK.

Who is responsible for protecting Water-break-its-neck promontory fort?

Water-break-its-neck promontory fort is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Cadw — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Wales. The official designation reference is RD265.

What other scheduled monuments are near Water-break-its-neck promontory fort?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Mound & Bailey Castle, Bleddfa (5.9 km), Black Mixen, round barrow to NW of (8.4 km), Shepherd's Tump round barrow (8.6 km).

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