Burton Dassett Beacon
A Medieval tower known as The Beacon. It has been suggested that it was originally used as a windmill and was later converted to a look-out tower. It stands on Windmill Hill, Burton Dassett.
1 On top of the Burton Hills is a round tower called the Beacon, built of uncoursed square rough ashlar. It was apparently a late Medieval lookout tower which was partly defensive, as there is a row of corbels at the top suggesting machicolations. On the SW side is a blocked doorway retaining the springing stones of a depressed arch, and above it is a small arched and square-headed window with a label. Another square window is to the NW. The roof is conical and covered with cement. It is set on a raised platform revetted by rough masonry.
5 15th century. Altered 20th century. Coursed squared ironstone. Tapering circular plan. Probably originally a tower mill, later converted to a lookout tower.
7 Preserved truncated stone tower, two storey, 6.8m diameter at base, 4.8m high. Windows and doors now all sealed. No positive evidence of windmill use. Site open to public.
8 Included in Warwickshire Monument Evaluation and Presentation Project. Described as complete and in good condition with roof rebuilt in 1987.
9 Listed in an article on The Forest of Arden.
- For the sources of these notes, see the
- Timetrail record
- produced by the Historic Environment Record.
Comments
When it was constructed, the Belknap family held the land on the condition that they provided a beacon.
It is said that the beacon here was lit, just after the battle of Edgehill, to inform London that a battle had been fought.
Source: “Historic Warwick” by Tom Burgess
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