<< County Introductions >> County Guides No.10 - Devon
Submitted by bec-zog on Tuesday, 24 February 2004 Page Views: 6378
EnglandCountry: England County: DevonInternal Links:
Early settlers probably lived in temporary huts formed by digging out depressions in the ground, which were then covered by branches and turf. Settlements of more substantial stone structures followed, an example being the Bronze Age settlement of Grimspound. Here a massive stone wall, some 2.7m thick, encompasses a 1.8-hectare site containing 24 circular huts.
Barrows and "Beaker type" burials (2000-1000 BC) made in rough stone-sided cists, are numerous. Examples include Berry Down, Broad Down, Chapman and Corringdon Ball long barrow. In addition, the use of the plough has turned up thousands of flint artefacts, for example at Gidleigh common.
There are many stone circles on the moor, some of the finest being those at Scorhill, near Gidleigh, and the nearby double circles of Grey Wethers. An easily accessible and rewarding site can be found at Merrivale. This complex provides the visitor with an interesting range of stone monuments: Multiple stone rows, burial cists, menhirs, stone circle(s), hut circles and cairns.
For the Iron Age enthusiast the B3180 cuts through Woodbury "castle", whilst Huccaby Rings overlooks the West Dart river, and is close to the stone circles of Huccaby and Sherberton. Paleolithic fans should visit Kents Cavern in Torquay.
Virtually anywhere in the West Country is close to a site of ancient settlement or burial, although many thousands have been lost or destroyed. Some well known site are frequently visited, whilst many others lay undisturbed by tourists. Considerable time is required to fully explore the Devon sites observing both the National Park and Farmers codes and ensuring no damage to the site occurs.
A vigorous walk to a stone row, circle or burial chamber can be very rewarding as the trip provides splendid views of the countryside. One should, however, be prepared for rapid changes in weather conditions and be suitable equipped. Information on access can be obtained from the Dartmoor National Park Rangers. It is also good practice to let somebody know where you are going.
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