Dartmoor National Park Authority

Throwleigh Common

This PAL contains a very well preserved prehistoric landscape, comprising extensive field systems, enclosures and the remains of round houses.  Long straight parallel field boundaries (reaves) cross the landscape in a NE/SW direction and are subdivided by reaves running in the opposite direction (NW/SE). Reaves appear on the ground as low stony, vegetation-covered banks.  At the centre of the system lies the heart of the settlement. Here are located the majority of the round houses surrounded by smaller enclosure plots which may represent gardens or areas of arable production.

Of particular interest within the settlement is a passageway formed by two parallel banks that run from the central hut circles to the boundary reaves to allow access to the open landscape beyond, thus establishing links between enclosed land and open moorland which have pertained to this day.

A number of stony mounds (cairns), either the result of field clearance or covering burials can be found SW of the settlement area, but still within the field system.

From later periods is the mid 16th century leat which served Bradford Pool tinwork and some building remains, shelters or houses.

The central area of the PAL, where the prehistoric features are at their densest has been designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM).

The area includes part of the North Dartmoor SSSI and the Dartmoor SAC with a mosaic of acid grassland and Western Heath. Several UK BAP species are present: Birds - Snipe. Insects - Southern Damselfly, Small Red Damselfly, Bog Hoverfly. The Bog Orchid is found in the adjacent valley mires.

What it should look like: There should be a preference for short acid grassland (up to 15 cm) across the PAL.  The area has a wide band from south of Shilley Pool to Shilstone Tor that is dominated by Bracken with areas of Common Gorse. The Bracken and gorse should be controlled in these areas. The ultimate aim would be removal across substantial areas of the PAL. There is a small mire south of Shilstone that should be kept open.  

Interactive Mapping (GIS) System

The link below provides access to an interactive map which shows the PAL at Throwleigh Common.  You can zoom in further on a specific area of interest using the tools provided.  (For additional help using the system please refer to our GIS help page.)

Page updated 16 September 2009