NHER 27970 (Cropmark and Earthwork record) - Undated circular mounds

October 2002. Norfolk NMP.
Three roughly circular mound surrounded by ditch sections are visible on 1946 RAF aerial photographs (S1) of the heath. The first mound is located at TG 0710 4241 and is sub-circular in shape and measures from between 5.5-6.5m across. The mound may be surrounded by three slight sections of ditch or scarred ground. The ditch to the north being the most complete and obvious. To the immediate south of this site is another comparable mound at TG 0709 4239, measuring 5.5-6m across. This is surrounded by two irregular shaped ditches to the north and south. The third mound is located to the west of the road at TG 0713 4237. This mound is more regular and circular in shape and measures 7m in diameter and appears to be surrounded by a complete ditch. The date and origin of these features is not clear. The fact that these features are visible on the 1946 RAF aerial photographs (S1) could imply they are World War Two in date. It is possible that they are gun emplacement or similar defensive positions. Although if this is the case then they have not been in very recent use as they do not look as fresh as the other military sites on the heath. Another possibility is that they are barrows part, of the large dispersed barrow cemetery on the heath. Some investigation on the ground is needed to ascertain the date and function of these mounds.
S. Massey (NMP), 12 May 2003.