Principal Archaeological Landscape: Countisbury and Lyn Gorge (6)

Location The area lies to the east of Lynmouth and surrounds the confluence of Farley Water and the East Lyn River. It is a deep gorge with wooded slopes and clearings. Impressive sea cliffs form the northern boundary. Description of Archaeology The area contains late prehistoric and medieval settlement, including Wind Hill which is the largest Iron Age promontory fort in England. The other major prehistoric sites are two hillslope enclosures (Myrtleberry North and Myrtleberry South). These are assumed to be Iron Age; however, excavation at Higher Holworthy (Parracombe) has suggested that at least some of these may date to the Bronze Age (Terry Green, pers. comm.) Myrtleberry North is one of a handful of hillslope enclosures which include outworks. Extensive medieval strip lynchets are preserved within the promontory fort at Wind Hill. Additionally a spectacular deserted medieval settlement on the end of the spur at Horner’s Neck (Trilly Ridge) may potentially have early medieval origins. There are also the remains of postmedieval trial pits and adits for iron exploration within the PAL. Principal significance There is an unusual concentration of later prehistoric monuments preserved in a largely undamaged form, mainly as a result of their location in woodland. The dramatic coastal position and intervisibility of the prehistoric sites make the archaeology of this area outstanding. The location of the medieval complex at Horner’s Neck is exceptional and the site itself is unique on Exmoor.