Rooley Moor Archaeology

Although the moorland of Rooley Moor rises to over 450 m. above sea level it preserves a surprisingly rich and varied archaeological heritage.

The sites range from the manor house of Spotland, at Naden Head to prehistoric burial sites at Bagden Hillocks. North of Bagden Hillocks many early coal pits can clearly be seen to the east of Rooley Moor.

Here is a short photographic record which hopefully will lead to a more detailed survey.

The Ruined Manor House of Naden Head

Naden was first mentioned in 1107 and the Manor House of Spotland, at Naden Head was mentioned in the 16th C.

Bagden Hillocks Cairn

A Bronze age cairn showing similarity to another Rochdale cairn at Hades Hill.

















Old Moorcock Cairn

Smaller in diameter than nearby Bagden Hillocks cairn and adjacent to the site of the Old Moorcock Inn.










Hamer Hill

Though damaged this is one of the most enigmatic sites in the area and at well over 400 m. above sea level the site has commanding views in all directions. A stone alignment can clearly be seen nearby, indicating that the stones are not random, but due to early human activity.