Chains
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The Chains is the name given to the north-west plateau of Exmoor in western Somerset. This plateau lies above the 1,500-foot contour line, and includes the source of the River Barle.
The Chains are roughly within a triangle of land between Simonsbath, Challacombe and Lynton and have few distinguishing features. The highest point is at Chains Barrow (1,599 feet).
The moorland here is a 'Geological Conservation Review' site,[1] recognised as being nationally important for its south-western lowland heath communities and for transitions from ancient semi-natural woodland through upland heath to blanket mire. The Chains provides a palynological record of a mid to late Flandrian vegetation history on Exmoor. The pollen sequence in the peat is calibrated by radiocarbon dating.[2]
On the Chains above Simonsbath is a three-acre reservoir known as Pinkery Pond. It was formed by John Knight and his son in the 19th century by damming the River Barle. The pond was originally intended to be seven acres. Its purpose is unknown but close to the pond are the remains of a small canal.[3]
Long Chains Combe is the site of several standing stones which have been designated as scheduled monuments.[4][5]
Map
- Location map: 51°10’0"N, 3°48’-0"W
References
- ↑ "The Chains (Quaternary of South-West England)". Joint Nature Conservation Committee. http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=4174&gcr=2020. Retrieved 17 November 2013.
- ↑ SSSI listing and designation for The Chains
- ↑ Warren, Derrick (2005). Curious Somerset. Stroud: Sutton Publishing. pp. 107–108. ISBN 978-0-7509-4057-3.
- ↑ National Heritage List 1014280: Long Chains Combe North: a stone setting 120m WNW of the sheepfold
- ↑ National Heritage List 1014279: Long Chains Combe South: two standing stones south west of the sheepfold