Principal Archaeological Landscape: Chapman and Woodbarrow complex (3)

Location This is an elevated moorland ridg e running from Two Gates to the west, as far as Wood Barrow in the east. The area has outstanding panoramic views southwards to Dartmoor, south-westwards to Bodmin, westwards to Lundy Island, Hartland Point and Barnstaple Bay, northwards to the coast of south Wales and eastwards across Exmoor as far as Dunkery Beacon. Two deep combes run into the ridge, one from the north at Woodbarrow Hangings and the other from the south near Swincombe Rocks. Description of Archaeology The area contains two linear barrow cemeteries presumably of early Bronze Age date. The first cemetery is the Chapman Barrows and the second comprises Longstone Barrow stretching eastwards to Wood Barrow. These barrow groups form striking and prominent features in the landscape; several have been subject to antiquarian excavation (which is unusual on Exmoor), providing some limited insights into the nature of their below ground archaeology. As well as the barrows, the area contains one stone setting and the iconic Long Stone, the largest prehistoric standing stone on Exmoor. There is also a probable late Neolithic mortuary enclosure lying between the highest of the Chapman Barrows and the Long Stone. Principal significance This is one of the most significant prehistoric landscapes on Exmoor. This is due to the excellent preservation of the barrow cemeteries and their completeness, the insights provided by antiquarian excavations, the presence of lithic monuments and the mortuary enclosure.