Monument record 185/1 - Medieval Moated Site South-east of Brook Farm

The earthwork remains of a substantial rectangular moat. The northern and western arms are the most prominent, but full circuit is visible with the western half preserved in the field boundaries. A possible inlet channel survives as an earthwork, as does an area of parallel linear earthworks in the form of distinct ridges and troughs known as ridge and furrow formed by medieval and post medieval cultivation practices. Moats are characterised by a waterlogged ditch that encloses a platform of land where buildings were built though they were also used for horticulture e.g. orchards. They were most popular in medieval times though not necessarily for the defensive advantages of being on an island as they were also seen as a sign of prestige. There are approximately 6000 across England with over 200 moated sites in Cheshire alone.