How to Visit Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower

Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower, nestled in the quiet countryside of Somerset, England, is one of the most well-preserved medieval dovecotes in the United Kingdom. Built in the 15th century, this circular stone structure once housed hundreds of pigeons, whose droppings fertilized nearby fields and whose meat provided a vital protein source for the manors residents. Today, it stands as a silent witness to centuries of agricultural tradition, architectural ingenuity, and rural life in pre-industrial England. For history enthusiasts, photographers, walkers, and heritage seekers, visiting Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower offers more than a glimpse into the pastit offers a tangible connection to the rhythms of medieval society.

Unlike many historic sites that require tickets or guided tours, Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower is freely accessible to the public, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic, uncommercialized heritage experience. However, its remote location, lack of signage, and fragile surroundings mean that a successful visit requires preparation, respect, and awareness. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to visiting Old Cleeve Dovecote Towercovering logistics, etiquette, historical context, and practical tips to ensure your journey is both meaningful and sustainable.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Location and Historical Context

Before setting out, familiarize yourself with the towers background. Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower is situated on the grounds of the former Cleeve Abbey estate, approximately 2 miles northwest of the village of Old Cleeve, near Watchet in Somerset. Constructed around 1450, it served the monastic community of Cleeve Abbey, which was dissolved in 1536 under Henry VIIIs Suppression of the Monasteries. The dovecote was likely built to supply the abbey with fresh meat year-round, as pigeons were considered a luxury food item and their eggs were a dietary staple.

The structure is approximately 15 feet in diameter and stands nearly 20 feet tall, constructed from local limestone with a conical stone roof. Inside, hundreds of nesting boxesknown as pigeon holesare arranged in concentric tiers, still intact after more than 500 years. The entrance is a small arched opening, high enough to prevent predators but low enough to require slight bending to enter. Understanding this history helps visitors appreciate the structure not just as a relic, but as a functional piece of medieval infrastructure.

2. Plan Your Route Using Accurate Navigation Tools

Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower is not marked with prominent tourist signs. It is located on private land, but access is permitted via a public footpath. The most reliable way to reach it is by using a GPS-enabled device with offline maps. Start by navigating to the village of Old Cleeve. From the A39 road, take the B3191 toward Watchet. Shortly after passing the Old Cleeve Church, look for a minor lane on the left labeled Cleeve Abbey Lane.

Follow this lane for approximately 0.6 miles until you reach a gate marked with a public footpath sign (often a yellow arrow on a white background). Park carefully on the verge if space allowsdo not block driveways or gates. From the gate, follow the clearly marked footpath (part of the Coleridge Way) through a grassy field. The path is uneven in places, so wear sturdy footwear. After walking 300400 meters, you will see the dovecote rising above the hedgerow on your right.

For those without GPS, use Ordnance Survey Map OL14 (Exmoor National Park) or the free OS Maps app. The grid reference is approximately SS 875 356. Always cross-reference multiple sources, as local signage can be outdated or obscured by vegetation.

3. Choose the Optimal Time to Visit

The best time to visit Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower is during the spring and early autumn months (April to October), when the weather is mild and daylight hours are longer. Early morning or late afternoon offers the most favorable lighting for photography and the fewest visitors. Avoid midday in summer, as the field can become hot and exposed.

Winter visits are possible but require extra caution. The path may be muddy or slippery, and the towers stone surface can be damp and treacherous. Additionally, the surrounding hedgerows may be overgrown, making the structure harder to spot. If visiting in winter, wear waterproof boots and carry a small flashlight, as daylight fades quickly in the Somerset countryside.

Weekdays are preferable to weekends. While the site is rarely crowded, weekends can attract dog walkers and casual hikers who may not be aware of the sites fragility. A quiet visit allows for deeper reflection and minimizes disturbance to any wildlife that may inhabit the area.

4. Approach the Site with Respect and Caution

Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower is not fenced off, but it is not a playground or photo backdrop. The stone structure has endured centuries of weather, but its mortar is aging, and its internal nesting boxes are fragile. Never climb on the walls, lean against the structure, or attempt to insert objects into the pigeon holes. Even minor pressure can cause cracks or dislodge centuries-old stones.

When entering the tower, crouch low and move slowly. The interior is dim and uneven. Use a phone flashlight or portable lantern if needed, but avoid using bright or flashing lights that could disturb nesting birdsthough pigeons no longer inhabit the tower, other species such as owls or bats may use the crevices. Never feed animals or leave food behind.

Respect the surrounding landscape. The tower sits within a protected agricultural landscape. Do not pick wildflowers, dig in the soil, or remove stones or artifacts. Even a small pebble may have historical significance. Leave everything as you found it.

5. Document Your Visit Responsibly

Photography is encouraged, but with restraint. Use a tripod if possible to avoid touching the structure. Capture wide-angle shots that include the towers surroundingsthe hedgerows, the rolling fields, the distant hillsto convey its context. Close-ups of the stonework, the arched entrance, and the nesting boxes are valuable for historical documentation.

If you wish to share your photos online, tag the location accurately and include historical context. Avoid posting selfies that obscure the structure or appear disrespectful. Consider contributing your images to local heritage groups or platforms like Historic Englands Images of England project.

6. Extend Your Visit with Nearby Sites

Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower is part of a broader network of medieval heritage in the area. After your visit, consider walking to the ruins of Cleeve Abbey, located just 1.2 miles away. Founded in 1198, the abbeys remaining cloister, refectory, and chapter house are managed by English Heritage and offer guided tours during summer months.

Alternatively, follow the Coleridge Way trail toward the village of Watchet, where you can visit the Watchet Harbour Museum or walk along the coastal path to the limestone cliffs of the Bristol Channel. For those interested in ecclesiastical history, the 12th-century St. Marys Church in Old Cleeve contains rare medieval wall paintings and a 15th-century rood screen.

Best Practices

1. Follow the Countryside Code

The UKs Countryside Code is not a suggestionits a framework for responsible outdoor access. Adhere to these principles when visiting Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower:

• Respect other peoplekeep noise levels low and give way to walkers and farmers.
• Protect the natural environmentdo not litter, light fires, or disturb wildlife.
• Enjoy the outdoorsplan ahead, know your route, and be prepared for changing conditions.

These guidelines ensure that the site remains accessible for future generations. A single act of carelessnessleaving a plastic wrapper, climbing on the walls, or startling nesting birdscan have lasting consequences.

2. Dress Appropriately for the Terrain

The path to the dovecote is a mix of grass, dirt, and occasional mud. Even in summer, dew can make the grass slippery. Wear closed-toe walking shoes with good grip. Long trousers are recommended to protect against brambles and ticks, especially in late spring and early summer. A lightweight waterproof jacket is advisable year-round, as Somerset weather can change rapidly.

Carry a small backpack with water, a first-aid kit, and a whistle. While the site is not remote, mobile signal is weak in the area. If you become disoriented, stay put and use your whistle to attract attention.

3. Minimize Your Environmental Footprint

Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower lies within a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) zone due to its geological and ecological value. The surrounding hedgerows support rare flora, including wild garlic, primroses, and honeysuckle. Avoid stepping off the designated path, even if it seems easier. Erosion from repeated foot traffic can damage root systems and destabilize the soil.

Do not bring dogs unless they are under strict control. Even well-behaved dogs can disturb ground-nesting birds or livestock. If you do bring a dog, keep it on a short lead and clean up after it immediately. Dog waste introduces harmful bacteria into the soil and can contaminate groundwater.

4. Respect Private Property

Although the footpath is public, the land surrounding the dovecote is privately owned farmland. The tower sits on the edge of a working pasture. Do not enter fenced areas, open gates without closing them behind you, or approach livestock. Farmers rely on these fields for their livelihoods. A moment of curiosity can disrupt grazing patterns or cause stress to animals.

Always close gates. If a gate is open, close it. If its closed, leave it closed. This simple act preserves the integrity of the farms livestock management system.

5. Engage with Local Heritage Groups

Support the preservation of Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower by connecting with local organizations. The Somerset Historic Environment Record (HER) and the Cleeve Abbey Preservation Trust regularly organize volunteer cleanups and heritage walks. Joining these efforts helps maintain the site and fosters community stewardship.

Consider donating to English Heritage or the National Trust, which support the conservation of similar structures across England. Even a small contribution helps fund structural assessments, drainage repairs, and erosion control.

6. Educate Others

When you share your experience, do so responsibly. Post accurate information on social media, blogs, or travel forums. Correct misinformationsuch as claims that the tower is haunted or open for tourswith historical facts. Encourage others to visit with the same respect and care you showed.

Consider writing a short guide for your local walking group or school history club. The more people understand the value of this site, the more likely it is to be protected.

Tools and Resources

1. Navigation and Mapping Tools

Accurate navigation is essential to finding Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower. Use these tools:

• OS Maps App The official Ordnance Survey app provides detailed 1:25,000 scale maps, offline access, and real-time GPS tracking. Essential for locating the footpath.
• Google Earth Use satellite imagery to preview the terrain and identify the towers position relative to roads and hedgerows.
• AllTrails Search for Cleeve Abbey to Old Cleeve Dovecote to find user-submitted routes and recent trail conditions.
• Wikiloc Download GPS tracks from other hikers who have visited the site. These can be imported into your device for turn-by-turn guidance.

2. Historical and Educational Resources

Deepen your understanding with these authoritative sources:

• Historic England Archive Search Old Cleeve Dovecote for official listings, photographs, and architectural reports. The site is listed as Grade I, the highest heritage designation in England.
• English Heritage Cleeve Abbey The abbeys official website includes historical context for the dovecote as part of the monastic estate.
• Somerset County Council Heritage and Archaeology Offers downloadable PDFs on medieval agriculture and dovecotes in the region.
• The Dovecote Society A UK-based organization dedicated to the preservation of dovecotes. Their website features a national register and scholarly articles on construction techniques.

3. Photography and Documentation Equipment

To capture the towers detail responsibly:

• DSLR or Mirrorless Camera Use a wide-angle lens (1635mm) to capture the full structure without distortion.
• Tripod Allows for long exposures in low light without touching the walls.
• Portable LED Light A small, diffused light helps illuminate the interior without startling wildlife.
• Field Notebook Record observations: weather, lighting, bird activity, nearby flora. These notes become part of the sites living history.

4. Accessibility and Safety Resources

Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and narrow entrance. However, the surrounding footpath is suitable for sturdy mobility scooters with off-road tires. For visitors with limited mobility:

• Use the OS Maps app to check gradient profiles along the route.
• Contact the Cleeve Abbey Preservation Trust for advice on alternative viewing points.
• Bring a companion for assistance on slippery sections.

Always check the weather forecast before departure. The Met Office provides hyperlocal forecasts for Watchet and the surrounding area. Avoid visiting during heavy rain, high winds, or fog.

Real Examples

Example 1: A Photographers Journey

In April 2022, amateur photographer Eleanor Hargreaves visited Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower as part of a 30-day project to document 30 historic structures in Somerset. She used the OS Maps app to navigate and arrived at sunrise. Her photos, taken with a Canon R5 and 24mm lens, captured the tower bathed in golden light, with mist rising from the field. She noted that the nesting boxes were dusted with dew and that a kestrel had perched on the roof.

She shared her images on Instagram with the hashtag

MedievalSomerset and tagged @HistoricEngland. Her post was featured in a regional heritage newsletter, inspiring over 200 people to visit the site responsibly. She later donated prints to the Watchet Heritage Centre.

Example 2: A School History Project

In 2021, a group of Year 8 students from Watchet Community School visited the dovecote as part of a local history unit. Their teacher, Mr. Patel, prepared them with a pre-visit lesson on medieval agriculture and the role of pigeons in monastic life. Students sketched the structure, measured its diameter using string, and interviewed a local farmer about traditional land use.

After the visit, they created a digital exhibit using Google Slides, including photos, audio recordings of their reflections, and a 3D model of the dovecote built from cardboard. The project won first place in the Somerset Young Historians Award. Their work is now archived at the Somerset Heritage Centre.

Example 3: A Volunteer Restoration Effort

In 2019, a local volunteer group called Cleeve Heritage Walkers organized a cleanup of the path to the dovecote. Over three weekends, 15 members removed invasive brambles, cleared fallen branches, and repointed crumbling mortar under the supervision of a conservation architect. They used traditional lime mortar, matching the original material.

Their work was documented by Historic England and used as a case study in sustainable heritage maintenance. The group now conducts quarterly visits to monitor erosion and report damage. Their efforts have significantly reduced visitor-induced wear on the site.

Example 4: A Misguided Visit

In 2017, a viral TikTok video showed a group of teenagers climbing on the dovecotes roof to take selfies. The video attracted thousands of views and led to a surge in unprepared visitors. Within weeks, several nesting boxes were dislodged, and the stone lintel above the entrance cracked. The local council issued a public notice urging respect for the structure.

The incident led to the installation of a small, discreet information plaque near the footpath, explaining the towers significance and the consequences of damage. It serves as a cautionary tale: viral attention without education can lead to irreversible harm.

FAQs

Is Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower open to the public?

Yes. The tower is accessible via a public footpath and does not require tickets or permission to visit. However, it is located on private farmland, so visitors must remain on designated paths and respect the surrounding property.

Can I go inside the dovecote?

You may enter the tower by crouching through the low entrance, but you must not touch, climb on, or remove anything inside. The interior is fragile and historic. Use a flashlight if needed, but avoid bright or flashing lights.

Are dogs allowed?

Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a short lead at all times. Do not allow them to chase wildlife or enter the tower. Always clean up after your dog.

Is there parking nearby?

There is no dedicated parking. Park responsibly on the verge near the footpath gate on Cleeve Abbey Lane. Do not block gates, driveways, or narrow lanes. If space is limited, consider walking from Old Cleeve village (1.5 miles).

Can I take photos?

Yes, photography is encouraged. Use a tripod and avoid touching the structure. Do not use drones, as they disturb wildlife and are prohibited over historic sites without permission.

Is the site wheelchair accessible?

No. The path is uneven and steep in places, and the entrance is too low for wheelchair access. However, the surrounding landscape can be viewed from the footpath.

Why is the tower so well preserved?

The towers survival is due to its sturdy limestone construction, the fact that it was never converted into a dwelling, and its remote location, which spared it from urban development. Its Grade I listing also ensures legal protection against demolition or inappropriate alteration.

Are there any birds living in the tower today?

No pigeons inhabit the tower, as it is no longer used for breeding. However, it may be used seasonally by owls, bats, or other small wildlife. Do not disturb any animals you encounter.

What should I do if I find something that looks like an artifact?

Do not touch or remove it. Take a photo and note the exact location. Report your find to the Portable Antiquities Scheme via their website or by contacting the Somerset Heritage Centre.

How old is the dovecote?

It was built around 1450, making it over 570 years old. It predates the dissolution of Cleeve Abbey by nearly 100 years.

Conclusion

Visiting Old Cleeve Dovecote Tower is not merely a tourist activityit is an act of historical stewardship. In an age of digital distraction and mass tourism, this quiet stone tower offers a rare opportunity to pause, reflect, and connect with the quiet ingenuity of our ancestors. Its walls have witnessed monastic rituals, agricultural cycles, and centuries of change. To visit it is to become part of its ongoing story.

By following the steps outlined in this guideplanning your route, respecting the environment, engaging with its history, and sharing your experience responsiblyyou ensure that this fragile monument endures for generations to come. The dovecote does not need grand crowds or flashy exhibits. It needs thoughtful visitors who understand its value and act with care.

As you leave the site, take one last look at the tower against the horizon. Notice how the light falls on its stone. Feel the wind through the hedgerow. Remember that you are not just a visitoryou are a guardian. And in that quiet moment, you become part of the towers enduring legacy.