NHER 38812 (Monument record) - World War Two earthworks and defences

September 2004. Norfolk NMP.
A group of World War Two date earthworks and defences, located in the Hall Wood within Cromer Park (NHER 33460), are visible on aerial photographs from 1946 (S1). The earthworks appear to consist of a raised mound, possibly for a gun position, and some slit trenches probably constructed for training purposes. The site is centred on TG 2136 4179.
At TG 2138 4182 there is a roughly oblong mound 13m across. This appears to have a rectilinear cut in the southern end, giving the earthwork a pronounced 'U' shape on the aerial photographs (S1). Although it is hard to discern whether this cut is real or whether trees are obscuring the full extent of the mound. It is possible that this earthwork platform relates to a gun position or emplacement.
To the south centred on TG 2129 4176 is a possible area of military trenches and earthworks. Although recently exposed and moved earth is obvious through the trees the cover is too dense for the features to mapped and interpreted with any confidence. An extent of area was created for the location of these features. A well used path can be discerned leading between these two sites and other locations within the woodland belt. The route of the track weaves around and appears to divert to several points of obviously disturbed ground just visible through the trees. It is likely that these 'diversions' mark the location of other military sites within the wood. Other World War Two date earthworks and structures are visible in the adjacent 'East Wood' (NHER 38814).
S. Massey (NMP), 27 September 2004.