Dovecote At Nine Ashes Farm 40 Metres North North East Of House

The dovecote at Nine Ashes Farm, located 40 metres north-north-east of the house, dates from the late 16th century. It is referred to as a 'dovehouse' in a description from 1600 and was noted as a 'dove and hen house' in a sale from 1898. The interior has been converted into a three-storey farm cottage, although it is currently not in use.

This tall, octagonal dovecote is constructed of red brick and features a plinth and a dentilled eaves course. It has a steep octagonal slate roof topped by a large octagonal lantern. Each face of the dovecote has a small arched opening, now glazed, which is sheltered by a wide moulded cornice that supports an ogee lead roof with a ball terminal. The walls are very thick and plastered inside, with many containing nest boxes beneath the inner lining.

Modern three-light casement windows are present on the cardinal faces, and there is a small dormer on the east side. A single-storey kitchen addition is located to the north, and there is an inserted chimney against the wall at the north-east. The main door is recessed on the south side under a segmental arch and features a modern half-glazed door. This 16th-century dovecote is of special interest as it survives from Sir Thomas Forster's mansion and is part of the group of historic buildings at Nine Ashes.