The truncated, grass-covered mound rises between 4.7 and 5.3 metres high, with its conical form still clearly visible despite centuries of weathering and quarrying damage to its summit. The top spans roughly 12 metres across, whilst the base measures an impressive 32 metres in diameter, and faint traces of the defensive fosse that once encircled it can still be detected in the surrounding landscape.

Archaeological excavations carried out in 1976 revealed intriguing evidence of what may have been a bailey; the fortified courtyard that typically accompanied these Norman strongholds. The motte’s strategic position becomes even clearer when considering its medieval neighbours: the parish church of Athlumney lies just 90 metres to the north, whilst Athlumney tower house, a later medieval fortification, stands 140 metres to the northeast. This clustering of medieval structures suggests the area held considerable importance during the Anglo-Norman period, likely serving as a local centre of power and administration.

More recent archaeological testing in 2002 examined approximately 1.5 hectares of land about 100 metres southeast of the motte, though this investigation yielded no material directly related to the earthwork. The motte’s elevated position, offering natural defensive advantages whilst overlooking a significant stretch of the River Boyne valley, exemplifies the Norman talent for selecting strategic locations for their fortifications. Today, this quietly imposing earthwork continues to mark the landscape as it has for nearly nine centuries, a grass-covered reminder of Meath’s turbulent medieval past.