Rough Haw enclosure

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Historical Environment Record No:
MYD1636
Parish:
Flasby with Winterburn
OS Grid Reference:
SD963558
Dale:
Malhamdale
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Description

Rough Haw enclosure MYD1636 (c) YDNPA, 2023

Rough Haw enclosure MYD1636 (c) YDNPA, 2023

The prehistoric enclosure on Rough Haw consists of a stone dump rampart of very loose and mostly unstructured form. The rampart follows the contours along the edge of the steep scarp around Rough Haw, enclosing an area of around 7 hectares (17 acres). The width of the rampart is fairly consistent, 2.5 metres on average and the outer face ranges from 0.8 to 1.8 metres high. A break on the west side of the enclosure may have been the original entrance. It is approached by a hollow way that ascends the steep natural slope obliquely. There are no features visible in the interior of the enclosure.

In spite of the large rampart, the enclosure is in fact poorly sited for both defence and occupation. It commands extensive views and this, along with the weirdly shaped gritstone outcrops on the plateau, has led archaeologists to suggest that the site may have had some sort of ritual purpose.

The site is undated but may be Neolithic or Bronze Age, based on its construction and form.

View of Rough Haw MYD1636 (c) YDNPA, 2023

View of Rough Haw MYD1636 (c) YDNPA, 2023

Location

The site is about 1 1/4 miles from Flasby beside a public bridleway. In the village cross over the bridge. At a junction of tracks go left, then quickly right (signed Grassington Rd). Follow path uphill diverting sharp left on a track to reach the summit.

Public Transport Details

Nearest town/village: Gargrave. Call Traveline on 0870 608 2 608 to plan your journey. After the welcome message key in 885 for North Yorkshire information

Accessibility

The bridleway is rough and boggy in places.