MMO2467 - Post-medieval drainage system at Sparcombe Water Head (Monument)

A system of at least seven post-medieval drainage ditches is visible on aerial photographs at Sparcombe Water Head. The ditches were possibly cut as part of the Knight family's attempt at agricultural improvement associated with the construction of Tom's Hill Farm around 1850. Centred on approximately SS 8193 4149, this drainage system covers an area of roughly 0.7 hectares. Similar, but much more extensive drainage systems are visible to the north and west towards Warren Farm, some draining into natural streams and water courses, others appearing to drain into the various contour leats. According to Orwin, many miles of drainage ditches were cut across parts of Exmoor, but this technique did not address the underlying issue of compacted ironpan soils and failed to provide adequate drainage for improvement. [1-3] This record was enhanced as part of the National Record of the Historic Environment to Exmoor National Park Historic Environment Record data transfer project. [4]