The earthwork consists of a flat-topped, circular mound covered in trees, measuring approximately 14 metres across at its summit and expanding to roughly 35 metres at its base. The height varies considerably due to the sloping ground, ranging from 4 to 5 metres on the northeast side to an impressive 7.5 metres on the southwest. What makes this particular motte especially interesting is its defensive fosse, or ditch, which curves around the southwestern to northwestern sides, originally about 6 metres wide at the top and narrowing to 3 metres at its base.

The site shows evidence of more complex fortification than just the simple mound. An earthen bank extends southwest from the fosse, whilst a scarp runs northwest from the same ditch, together forming what appears to be a crescent-shaped bailey measuring about 15 metres east to west. This outer enclosure would have provided additional defended space for buildings and activities associated with the motte, all defined by the curved boundary of the surrounding woodland that runs from southwest to northwest.

Like many Anglo-Norman earthworks scattered across the Irish midlands, Balgree Motte likely dates from the late 12th or early 13th century, when the new arrivals were establishing their control over conquered territories. These timber-crowned earthen castles served as both military strongholds and administrative centres, allowing the Normans to project power across the landscape whilst providing a secure base for their operations in what was often hostile territory.