MMO227 - Probable post-medieval or modern arboreal folly in Dunster Park (Monument)

Summary

A possible Bronze Age saucer barrow has been recorded as a shallow, circular depression, about 10 yards diameter. It is however more likely to be an arboreal folly as an elm tree formerly stood in the centre, surrounded by iron railings.

Please read the Exmoor National Park Historic Environment Record .

Type and Period (2)

Protected Status

  • None recorded

Full Description

SS 9983 4326. A shallow, circular depression about 10 yards diameter lies on top of May Hill. It is possibly a saucer barrow, but there are no known barrows in the immediate vicinity. It may have been an arboreal folly to improve the view from Dunster Castle as an elm tree formerly stood in the centre, surrounded by iron railings. [1] The circular depression referred to above [1] is not visible on the available aerial photography but the tree is visible as a circular copse measuring 13 metres in diameter. The copse or tree is gone on aerial photographs taken in 1993. [2-4]

Sources/Archives (4)

  • <1> Article in serial: Dixon, J.. 1980. Somerset Parish Survey 3: Carhampton. Proceedings of the Somerset Archaeological and Natural History Society. 19.
  • <2> Aerial photograph: Various. Various. Vertical Aerial Photograph. RAF/CPE/UK/1980 4215-4216 (11 April 1947).
  • <3> Aerial photograph: Various. Various. Vertical Aerial Photograph. NMR OS/93297 047-048 (16 August 1993).
  • <4>XY Archive: 2007-2009. Exmoor National Park NMP: SS 94 SE. MD002187. [Mapped feature: #39905 ]

External Links (1)

Other Statuses/References

  • Exmoor National Park HER Number (now deleted): MSO9090
  • Local List Status (Unassessed)
  • National Monuments Record reference: SS 94 SE40
  • NRHE HOB UID (Pastscape): 36943

Map

Location

Grid reference SS 9983 4326 (point) Aerial Survey
Map sheet SS94SE
Civil Parish CARHAMPTON, WEST SOMERSET, SOMERSET

Finds (0)

Related Monuments/Buildings (0)

Related Events/Activities (0)

Record last edited

Nov 8 2021 2:18PM

Feedback?

Your feedback is welcome. If you can provide any new information about this record, please contact us.