Archaeology Notes

Event ID 725183

Category Descriptive Accounts

Type Archaeology Notes

Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/725183

NX55SW 12 5341 5210

(NX 5341 5210) Kirkclaugh Mote (NR)

OS 6" map (1957).

For cross-slab formerly situated on this motte, see NX55SW 11.

Kirkclaugh motte: Motte and bailey with sea cliffs 80' to 100' below. The sub-rectangular motte's summit area measures 58' by 64', standing 22' above the ditch, which is 45'-53' wide. The kidney-shaped bailey is 40' to 50' wide and 270' round the outer edge. The RCAHMS records a circular hollow 2' deep and 12' in diameter at the entrance to the bailey, possibly indicating the position of a guard-house. There are formidable ditches and ramparts on the landward side.

I F MacLeod 1969; RCAHMS 1914, visited 1912

A motte-and-bailey generally as described and planned. No definite evidence of a 'guard-house' could be seen in the bailey but clear evidence of a turf-covered wall skirts its west side. Name confirmed.

Resurveyed at 1/2500.

Visited by OS (RD) 13 March 1972.