Monument record WLN 093 - Substantial trench of probable historic date

February 2015. Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Beauty National Mapping Programme.
The earthworks and cropmarks of a linear entrenchment of uncertain date are visible on aerial photographs (S1-S4) on Westleton Heath and on arable land to the east. The heath is used extensively for training during the Second World War, although it does not appear to be freshly constructed in the earliest aerial photographs (S1), although it is feasible that it relates to activity very early in the Second World War or the First World War. The line of this feature continuing further may be indicated by a broad linear soilmark to the west (S3). It is feasible that these features relate to a medieval to post medieval heathland hollow way, although the great depth and steep profile would suggest something defensive. An alternative interpretation could be suggested based on the assertion that military earthworks relating the besieging of Dunwich during the 1173 rebellion remained on the heath as late as the eighteenth century (S5 & EHA record TM 46 NE 3). It is feasible that these represent those earthworks, whether they are related to the 1173 military activity would require further investigation. However if this was the interpretation then, it would be expected that the ramparts would be facing Dunwich and not facing south.
S. Horlock (Norfolk Historic Environment Service), 27th February 2015.