High Peak, Devon

High Peak is a partially eroded hill on the English coast near Sidmouth in Devon, resulting in a cliff face. On the edge of the cliff at its highest point some 150 metres above sea-level there are the remains of significant earthworks, which have been variously shown as having Iron Age, Roman and Dark Age occupation. Geological study, and the lines of the earthworks suggest that the site once extended several tens of metres into what is now eroded away. General interpretation of High Peak suggests that it was an Iron Age defensive site which saw re-use in the Dark Age period, perhaps as a coastal emporia. [R.R.Sellman; Aspects of Devon History, Devon Books 1985 - ISBN 0861147561 - Chapter 2; The Iron Age in Devon. Map Page 11 of Iron Age hill forts in Devon includes High Peak.]

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