Llanfilo moat 1

Description

The monument comprises the remains of a well-preserved medieval moated homestead. It comprises a square platform measuring 20m by 20m that is surrounded by a moat averaging 0.9m wide and 1m deep. Stones around the edge of the platform suggest that it may have been revetted, and traces of an external bank can be seen outside the moat on the N and E sides. On the western side of the platform are the well-preserved remains of an oblong building measuring 24m N/S by 10m E/W. These comprise stone wall footings measuring between 0.6m and 0.8m wide. The entrance is through the eastern wall at the northern end of the building and there is a small room at the southern end. A low bank extends from the outer SE corner of the moat for 24m towards the remains of a stone tower. This comprises a ring of stones, some quite large, measuring 6m in diameter and a maximum of 0.6m high. A second low bank extends from the NE corner of the moat towards the remains of at least two roughly oval platforms. A wall with an inturned entrance runs along the W side of the adjacent lane and may be related to the moated site. (Scheduling Report)

A square moated enclosure. A 20m square platform, where traces of buildings have been observed, is surrounded by a moat, generally 9.0m wide. The moat is embanked on the north and east. The monument is about 44m square overall.
Another moat (NPRN 306049) lies by the church at Llanfilo, 0.6km to the north. Moats such as this usually date to the medieval period, although some are later. They served a variety of purposes, often enclosing mansions, but sometimes housing lodges, gardens or other features. The possession of a moat was a badge of wealth and status. John Wiles 11.04.07 (Coflein)

Comments

Scheduled under the broadclass 'defence' but seemingly a domestic homestead moat. The moat by the church appears to have been the manor house (That site is scheduled as a domestic site despite being very similar to this one.)