Along with fishponds, deer parks and rabbit warrens, dovecotes were an important part of the manorial economy. They were a reliable source of meat and eggs for the medieval manor or later farm estates.
In medieval times the right to build a dovecote was restricted to the Lord of the manor but by the end of the 17th century some lesser land-owners or tenants had dovecotes.
Dovecotes in Northamptonshire
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Cranford St. Andrew
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This circular dovecote was built in the mid-18th century and probably supplied birds for shooting as well as for the table.
A visible feature on the edge of Cranford Hall's parkland, its outside walls were probably lime-washed |
St. Andrews Lane. Call at Dairy Farm for access - tel: 01536 330273
Caution-Steps present
From June 2009:Interior of this monument closed pending repairs. We apologise for any inconvenience |
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Denton
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A circular dovecote built in the 17th century, but has been altered since.
The window, roof and ornate cupola date from the 1700s whilst the larger doorway was inserted in the 19th century. |
In the garden of Holy Cottage, 3 Main Street for access - tel: 01604 890228 |
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Furtho
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Probably built as a feature in the gardens of Furtho Manor Farm, the shape of this dovecote's walls suggests that it may be medieval in origin. It has undergone many alterations - partial rebuilding, blocking up of doorways and insertion of a new floor. |
On Grafton Way or via Bridleway through Furtho Manor Farm
Please note that the doorway into the dovecote is low and has restricted access
Dovecote is on a working farm-livestock may be present, please take care |
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Orlingbury
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Square dovecote from 1700s. Probably a rebuilding of an earlier dovecote on the site.
It had around 760 nesting boxes when it was originally built. |
In Dovecote Yard, Rectory Lane. Access shared with traffic – please exercise extra caution. Dovecote door key available locally – see sign by entrance for collection details.
Please note that the doorway into the dovecote is low with restricted height access. |
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Wadenhoe
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Largely original apart from the roof and glover which were rebuilt in 1952.
An excellent example showing how a dovecote worked, it contains a wooden potence and around 650 lath and plaster nesting boxes |
In paddock, Pilton Road
Caution-Step and low doorway with restricted height access. Please do not climb on wooden structures inside this dovecote |
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Warmington
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A circular, late 18th century dovecote with a potence and lath and plaster nest boxes.
A shelf below the boxes prevented rats from reaching the eggs and young squabs |
Access from the "Nene Valley Way" off Eaglethorpe Green. If visiting by car, please respect local parking requests and park clear of houses on Eaglethorpe.
Stock may be present in the field around the dovecote. Please keep dogs on lead and shut gates.
Caution-Please note that the doorway into the dovecote is low and has restricted access. Uneven floor present. Please do not touch or climb on the wooden structures inside the dovecote. |
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Wilbarston
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A single surviving wall from a 17th or early 18th century rectangular dovecote with 8 rows of nesting boxes. |
In grounds of Wilbarston School, School Lane. During term times call school for access (01536) 771252
Caution-Grass covered access may be slippery |