MMO2714 - 19th Century drainage system east of Setta Barrow (Monument)

An area of regular post-medieval drainage ditches visible on aerial photographs were most likely cut as part of the Knight family's attempt at agricultural improvement, probably around 1845. Many are associated with areas of peat cutting.

An area of regular post-medieval drainage ditches is visible on aerial photographs on moorland east of Setta Barrow, Exmoor. The ditches were most likely cut as part of the Knight family's attempt at agricultural improvement, probably around 1845. Centred at approximately SS 7294 3779, the ditches mostly run approximately north to south across an east facing slope above an unnamed tributary of the River Barle. It appears that the ditches were designed to channel water into this stream. The ditches are much less regular than others seen in the area, and cover an area of approximately 18 hectares. They appear to stop at the county boundary visible to the south. According to Orwin, many miles of drainage ditches were cut across parts of Exmoor, but in some areas failed to provide adequate drainage for the land to be enclosed [2]. Large areas of Exmoor were successfully drained however, and it is possible that this area was drained and used for grazing. Other similar ditches are visible in the surrounding areas, some draining into natural streams and water courses, others appearing to drain into specially constructed leats and channels. Many of the ditches are associated with areas of peat cutting. [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]