Reasons for Designation
Dovecotes are specialised structures designed for the breeding and keeping of
doves as a source of food and as a symbol of high social status. Most
surviving examples were built in the period between the 14th and the 17th
centuries, although both earlier and later examples are documented. They were
generally freestanding structures, square or circular in plan and normally of
brick or stone, with nesting boxes built into the internal wall. They were
frequently sited at manor houses or monasteries. Whilst a relatively common
monument class (1500 examples are estimated to survive out of an original
population of c.25,000), most will be considered to be of national interest,
although the majority will be listed rather than scheduled. They are also
generally regarded as an important component of local distinctiveness and
character.
Details
The monument includes the standing and below ground remains of Clifton
dovecote, which stands on the village green approximately 600m east of Home
Farm.
This large dovecote, which is Listed Grade II, is early 18th century in origin
and is constructed of red brick with rendered, coped gables. The building is
rectangular in plan and measures approximately 11.6m by 5.5m. It has a shingle
roof with a renewed, square, louvre at each end of the ridge.
A small door opening approximately 0.7m wide and 1.5 high provides access from
the centre of the north side. A set of flight holes in each gable end provides
access for the pigeons. Just above the door, and circling around the whole
building, is a double brick rat ledge. This would have prevented rats climbing
up to the flight holes and gaining access to the dovecote.
The interior of the dovecote is divided into two compartments linked by a
segmented brick, arched doorway. The external door opens into the western
compartment. Inside, the walls are lined with a total of 2,300 brick nest
boxes arranged in tiers with each tier being served by an alighting ledge
which runs beneath it. There are 1,150 nest boxes in each compartment.
The building was restored around 1970 in memory of those killed in World War
II and a roll of honour has been attached to the southern side of the
building. A sheet metal cover has been placed over the doorway to prevent
people gaining unauthorised access.
Legacy
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System number:
29956
Legacy System:
RSM
Sources
Books and journals
Legal
This monument is scheduled under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 as amended as it appears to the Secretary of State to be of national importance. This entry is a copy, the original is held by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
End of official list entry
