“Dovecote” (also pigeoncote, culver house, columbarium) –
a purpose‑built structure for domestic pigeons or doves.
traditionally free‑standing but often incorporated into another building.
forms vary - square, circular, hexagonal, or octagonal - usually built of local materials.
Inside: perches and tiers of nesting compartments (“pigeonholes”).
Outside: Openings high in the walls or roof, with protection from birds of prey.

Not just a garden feature!

Dovecotes were once a familiar feature in rural communities.  In medieval England, no manorial estate or monastery would be without a flock of domesticated pigeons.  Each breeding pair of birds would have several broods a year.  The eggs took two to three weeks to hatch and then three to four weeks before the chicks or “squabs” were big enough - to eat. Not only did the birds provide an economical source of food but also feathers and fertiliser.  The ownership of a dovecote, like a watermill or hunting and fishing rights, signalled status and wealth.