Monument record MDO39678 - Probable early 20th century enclosures, possible medieval bee gardens, Sopley Co39290mmon, Hurn

Two banked enclosures on Sopley Common are visible on 1940s aerial photographs. The earthworks are likely to be early 20th century military in origin, although an historic agricultural function is also possible. The features were digitally plotted by the Dorset Stour NMP.

Two banked enclosures on Sopley Common are visible on 1940s aerial photographs (1 and 2). The earthworks are likely to be early 20th century military in origin, although an historic agricultural function is also possible

The largest enclosure to the west is sub-rectangular in form and measures 21m by 13m. The entrance is on the northeast side. A smaller 7.5m wide comma-shaped banked earthwork is located 32.5m to the east of this. This smaller earthwork is similar in form to concentrations of banked earthworks to the south (e.g. MDO8814) and north (MDO39587).

It is possible the enclosures have a horticultural or agricultural function, possibly associated with medieval bee gardens. They are located adjacent to areas of military activity, however, and it is also possible that the earthworks are alternatively early 20th century military in origin.

The features were digitally plotted by the Dorset Stour NMP.

The earthworks are within partially open heath in 2017 but are not visible on current Google Earth imagery.

<1> Royal Air Force, 12-DEC-46, RAF/CPE/UK/1893 RS 4172-3 (Aerial Photograph). SDO15501.

<2> Royal Air Force, 28-MAY-48, RAF/CPE/UK/2548 V 5156-7 (Aerial Photograph). SDO15553.

Record last edited

Sep 23 2019 10:11AM