MMO2637 - Possible prehistoric trackway near Ruckham Combe (Monument)

Summary

An S shaped trackway of uncertain date is visible on aerial photographs as an earthwork. It runs roughly east to west, passing between two prehistoric stone monuments nearby, and may be prehistoric in origin.

Please read the Exmoor National Park Historic Environment Record .

Type and Period (1)

Protected Status

  • None recorded

Full Description

A trackway of uncertain date is visible on aerial photographs as an earthwork on moorland west of the West Lyn River, Lynton and Lynmouth. Centred at approximately SS 7238 4373, the S shaped trackway runs roughly east to west, across the steep slopes above the West Lyn River, passing between the two prehistoric stone monuments nearby before fading from view approximately 120 metres south of the Devon/Somerset boundary. Its total visible length is 285 metres, and up to 6 metres wide. Since it lies within the former Royal Forest of Exmoor, a medieval or post-medieval date seems unlikely, and the trackway may be prehistoric in origin. Further survey will be required to establish a precise date. [1,2] This record was enhanced as part of the National Record of the Historic Environment to Exmoor National Park Historic Environment Record data transfer project. [3]

Sources/Archives (3)

  • <1> Aerial photograph: Various. Various. Vertical Aerial Photograph. RAF 540/931 3086-87 (8 November 1952).
  • <2>XY Archive: English Heritage. 2007-2009. Exmoor National Park NMP: SS 74 SW. MD002182. [Mapped feature: #32860 ]
  • <3> Digital archive: Historic England. Various. National Record of the Historic Environment (NRHE) entry. 1480211, Extant 19 January 2022.

External Links (1)

Other Statuses/References

  • Local List Status (Unassessed)
  • National Monuments Record reference: SS 74 SW279
  • NRHE HOB UID (Pastscape): 1480211

Map

Location

Grid reference Centred SS 7233 4377 (221m by 204m) Aerial Survey
Map sheet SS74SW
Civil Parish LYNTON AND LYNMOUTH, NORTH DEVON, DEVON

Finds (0)

Related Monuments/Buildings (1)

Related Events/Activities (1)

Record last edited

Jan 19 2022 3:33PM

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