Scheduled Ancient Monument: MOAT FARM MOATED SITE AND ASSOCIATED POND (21309)

The monument includes a moated site and associated pond, located on the boundary between the parishes of Dennington, on the south and east side, and Brundish on the north and west. The moat, which is approximately 1.6m deep and measures between 11m and 15m in width, surrounds an island of irregular trapezoidal plan, giving overall maximum dimensions of 111m north east - south west by 90m north west - south east. The surface of the island is raised between 0.6m and 0.9m above the external surface level, and access to it is provided by a causeway across the eastern arm of the moat, with a second causeway across the western arm opposite. The moat is water-filled, fed by surface drainage. Immediately to the west of the moat, near the southern end, is an east-west linear pond measuring approximately 65m by 10m which, as part of a system controlling the inflow of water, is included in the scheduling. The moat and the surrounding field system remain much as they are shown in a map dated 1627, the principal addition being a large pond which has been dug on the eastern arm of the moat, towards its southern end. The greater part of this pond, where it is distinct from the moat, is not included in the scheduling. Moat Farm was known formerly as Pyeshall's or Pixhall's Manor, and Robert de Pyshale and John Pyshale are mentioned in documents of the early 14th century. In the mid 16th century it was owned by Henry Edgar (died 1619). Moat Farm House, which stands on the island, incorporates a 16th century building, and a chimney stack bears the date 1606, and the initials of Henry and Bridget Edgar. The house, which is Listed Grade II, is excluded from the scheduling, as are the outbuildings and sheds on the island, the driveway and paths, garden walls and fences, and a post supporting a television aerial. Also excluded is a farm building which encroaches on the outer edge of the eastern arm, north of the causeway, and the associated concrete standing and revetment. The ground beneath all these buildings and features is included in the scheduling.