MMO2363 - Possible late prehistoric enclosure on Lanacombe (Monument)

An unusual ditched enclosure is visible on aerial photographs as a very slight earthwork. Its precise date and function are uncertain but it may well be the remains of a late Bronze Age or Iron Age enclosed settlement.

An unusual ditched enclosure is visible on aerial photographs as a very slight earthwork on the north eastern edge of Lanacombe, Exmoor. Centred at approximately SS 7846 4318, the enclosure is U shaped, and open at the northern end. It measures approximately 75 metres long by 80 metres wide, and there is no visible entranceway. Its precise date and function are uncertain but its location, on a prominent spur overlooking Hoccombe Water may indicate a prehistoric orgin, and the feature may well be the remains of a late Bronze Age or Iron Age enclosed settlement. Several other enclosures and settlements are visible on the opposite side of Hoccombe Water on Hoccombe Hill. [1,2] This record was enhanced as part of the National Record of the Historic Environment to Exmoor National Park Historic Environment Record data transfer project. [3]