It was erected in 1676 for the purpose of gibbeting the bodies of George Broomham and Dorothy Newman and has only ever been used for them.

The gibbet was placed in such a prominent location as a warning, to deter others from committing crimes.

Unfortunately for the lovers, the murder was witnessed by "Mad Thomas", who managed to convey what he had seen to the authorities.

[5][9] Nowadays it is a popular local tourist attraction with good views of the surrounding area.

The hill is frequently used by the Thames Valley Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club.