Dovecote at Low Hall

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.

The dovecote at Low Hall survives well. It is a rare example of an early rectangular manorial dovecote, with interesting external details as well a complete interior.

Details

The monument includes a late medieval dovecote standing in the grounds of Low Hall, approximately 60m north west of the house. The dovecote, which is Listed Grade II, is believed to date to the 15th century and was part of the manorial complex at Low Hall. It is rectangular in plan, measuring 7m by 6m, and is constructed of rough limestone blocks with large blocks at the corners. It has gable ends with a crude crow-stepping effect which is thought to be a later addition, probably in the early 17th century. Just below the eaves is a string course which also served as a perching ledge for birds. Below the ridge line there is a six hole entrance for the birds, complete with an alighting ledge. On the south gable there is a barred mullion window with three perching ledges to the right side. Inside the dovecote are nesting boxes, each with a projecting landing slab, which are an integral part of the walls. The nesting boxes start about 1m above ground level and there is a low round-arched doorway on the east side.

MAP EXTRACT The site of the monument is shown on the attached map extract. It includes a 2 metre boundary around the archaeological features, considered to be essential for the monument's support and preservation.

Legacy

The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.

Legacy System number:

31352

Legacy System:

RSM

Sources

Other
OAU, MPP Dovecote Assessment, (1997)

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