Topics > Historical Periods > Middle Ages (1154 to 1485 AD) > Medieval Shielings

Medieval Shielings


Shielings were small, seasonal shelters built for herdsmen looking after livestock on summer pastures, often in upland or marshy areas. These huts are evidence of transhumance, a pastoral system where animals were moved from lowland farms in the spring to communal, higher grazing grounds during the warmer months. While this practice dates back to the Bronze Age (c. 2000–700 BC), specialized shepherd huts, distinct from permanent farmhouses, began appearing in the early medieval period (c. AD 450) and were widely used until the end of the 16th century. They were typically constructed of stone or turf and could be found alone or in clusters.

Middle Ages (1154 to 1485 AD) Farming Four medieval shielings on south bank of White Lyne overlooking confluence with Little Hare Grain
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Four medieval shielings on south bank of White Lyne overlooking confluence with Little Hare Grain
- This group of four Medieval shielings is in a remote area about 3½ miles north of Bewcastle. The remains are situated by the White Lyne in an area which is …

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