PILLBOX e24074 : Type 24 – West Somerset Pattern

A Second World War pillbox near Carhampton, west of Minehead, remains remarkably well-preserved, offering a tangible reminder of Britain’s wartime defences.

Constructed of concrete in a hexagonal design, this pillbox originally sat nestled in the corner of a field. However, the removal of hedgerows in 1994 has left it standing exposed in the middle of the field, with its door facing northeast. Aerial imagery suggests the structure was strategically positioned to face north, with its entrance likely located on the south side.

The pillbox features an unusual, non-standard design. Inside, a concrete step, approximately 1 foot high, leads to a raised platform measuring 3 feet by 3 feet and standing 2 feet high. The entrance is notably low, at just 3 feet in height, a feature typical of such defensive structures. An internal ricochet wall further demonstrates its defensive purpose, designed to minimize the risk of direct fire reaching occupants. Interestingly, part of the roof appears to be metal, supported by wooden rafters, with wood cladding applied externally. Historical records indicate it was once camouflaged by a hedge, blending it into the rural landscape to obscure its presence from potential attackers.

Field study is featured within Defencology, issue 2025/2

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