MMO726 - Post-medieval earthworks north of Bessom Cross (Monument)

Linear field bank running from the road at the Bessom Bridge, north-east to the top of the adjacent ridge. The southern end of this feature has been submerged by the Wimbleball Reservoir. Along the top of this ridge, north of Bessom Cross, are three linear groups of small mounds, running obliquely across the ridge, parallel to each other. These mounds, superfically look like quarry debris although they may be of natural origin. Only a field visit would clarify their origin. [1-3] In the vicinity of the features described above, only a narrow linear outcrop of limestone could be seen in a pasture field north of Bessom Cross. The features noted on air photographs may be associated with the sporadic quarrying of the outcrop, although no evidence for systematic exploitation is visible. [4] This record was enhanced as part of the National Record of the Historic Environment to Exmoor National Park Historic Environment Record data transfer project. [5]