MMO2305 - Post-medieval peat cutting on Dure Down (Monument)

A large area of peat cutting, of probable post-medieval date, is visible on aerial photographs as numerous small pits and irregular earthworks on Dure Down, Exmoor, covering an area of approximately 16 hectares. The earthworks are centred on approximately SS 7585 4134 and are of a variety of shapes and sizes, from square pits measuring 5 to 6 metres across, to less regularly shaped, curved pits up to 110 metres across. Due to the vast number of pits visible on aerial photographs, only a representative sample has been transcribed, indicating distribution and form. Peat cutting is known to have continued on Exmoor until very recently, and may continue in places. Similar areas are visible to the north on Exe Plain and to the east on The Warren. It is not clear whether the peat was used for domestic fuel or for turfing enclosure walls. [1-4] A study of the archaeology and history of peat exploitation on Exmoor’s moorlands provides additional background on the practice and sites. [5] This record was enhanced as part of the National Record of the Historic Environment to Exmoor National Park Historic Environment Record data transfer project. [6]