This circular mound at Knockudder rises about two to three metres from the surrounding landscape, with a flat top spanning roughly 20 metres across and a base extending to approximately 30 metres in diameter. Until around 2013, the entire structure was completely overgrown with vegetation, hiding its artificial origins beneath a tangle of plants and trees.

What makes this site particularly intriguing is its likely identity as a motte, the earthen mound component of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle. These structures were rapidly constructed across Ireland following the Anglo-Norman invasion of the 12th century, serving as both military strongholds and symbols of Norman authority. The motte would have originally supported a wooden tower or keep on its summit, providing a defensive advantage and commanding views across the surrounding territory.

Unlike many other mottes in Ireland, this example shows no visible signs of a fosse (defensive ditch) or formal entrance, making it somewhat unusual amongst its peers. The flat-topped design suggests it was deliberately levelled, possibly to accommodate structures on top, though any evidence of buildings has long since vanished. Its local nickname of ‘The Moat’ reflects how these ancient fortifications have lingered in folk memory, even as their original purpose has faded from common knowledge.