Principal Archaeological Landscape: Shoulsbury (7)

Location The area is part of a very exposed ridge projecting from the southern escarpment of Exmoor. It is therefore a prominent part of Exmoor when viewed from the south and west as well as forming a dramatic viewpoint from which to look out over North and Mid Devon. The area is moorland but is bordered on the south by farmland which reaches nearly as far as the top of the ridge. Description of Archaeology Shoulsbury is best known for the hillfort which lies on the edge of the ridge and which gives the area its name. The hillfort is nearly square and has been considered Roman because of its shape, though it remains undated. Its very exposed location means that it was probably not used for settlement, so its actual purpose remains unknown. Within the hillfort is a Bronze Age barrow. On the slopes to the north-west of the hillfort is a prehistoric stone setting. Principal significance The hillfort is one of the most dramatically sited Iron Age sites in Britain. As such, the views outwards from the hillfort form one of the most important features of this historic landscape.