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Boath Doocot: A 17th-Century Scottish Dovecote Steeped in History

Explore the historic 17th-century Boath Doocot, a circular dovecote perched on a mound overlooking the battlefield plains near Auldearn village.

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Boath Doocot is a well-preserved, circular dovecote dating from the late 1600s, located on a mound near Auldearn village, Nairn, Scotland. This historic structure, once part of the Boath House estate, stands 7.5 meters tall and overlooks the plains where the Battle of Auldearn was fought in 1645. Maintained by the National Trust for Scotland, it offers visitors a glimpse into rural Scottish heritage and architecture.

A brief summary to Boath Doocot

  • Doocot Rd, Nairn, Auldearn, IV12 5TF, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the panoramic views and architectural details.
  • Bring a camera for excellent photo opportunities of the dovecote and surrounding Highland landscape.
  • Wear sturdy footwear as the site is on a mound with uneven terrain.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around Auldearn village to explore local history.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Nairn town center to Boath Doocot takes approximately 15-20 minutes via local roads. Limited parking is available near the site; the terrain is uneven, so suitable footwear is recommended. There is no parking fee.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Nairn with Auldearn village, with a journey time of around 25-30 minutes. From the village, a 10-15 minute walk on rural paths leads to the dovecote. Bus services may be less frequent on weekends.

  • Walking

    For walkers, a scenic 1.5-hour hike from Nairn follows country lanes and footpaths to Auldearn and the Boath Doocot. The route includes some uneven ground and gentle inclines.

Boath Doocot location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
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  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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Architectural Heritage of Boath Doocot

Boath Doocot is a striking example of a late 17th-century dovecote, constructed in a completely circular form and rising approximately 7.5 meters high. The structure is harled with ashlar dressings, featuring a south-east facing entrance door with a set of six flights. Its circular design was typical for dovecotes of the period, built to house pigeons which were an important food source. The doocot’s enduring stone construction and distinctive shape make it a notable landmark in the Scottish Highlands.

Historical Context and Estate Origins

Originally built as part of the Boath House estate, the dovecote reflects the agricultural practices and estate management of 17th-century Scotland. It was designed to support the household by providing fresh meat and eggs through pigeon keeping. The estate itself was significant in the region, and the dovecote stands as a surviving relic of the rural economy and lifestyle of that era. Its location on a mound near Auldearn village situates it within a landscape rich in Scottish history.

Connection to the Battle of Auldearn

The mound on which Boath Doocot stands overlooks the plains stretching toward Garlic Hill, the site of the Battle of Auldearn in May 1645. This battle was a key conflict during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, involving forces loyal to the Scottish Covenanters and Royalists. While the dovecote postdates the battle, its position offers a tangible link to the surrounding historic landscape, inviting reflection on the region’s turbulent past.

Preservation and Public Access

Today, Boath Doocot is maintained by the National Trust for Scotland, which acquired the site in 1947 to preserve its historic and architectural value. The doocot is accessible to visitors year-round, though it has no formal opening hours as it is an outdoor heritage site. Its well-preserved condition allows visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and rural heritage of the Highlands. The site is also a peaceful spot for contemplation amidst the scenic surroundings.

Visitor Experience and Surroundings

Visitors to Boath Doocot can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the plains and Garlic Hill. The area offers a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for photography, history enthusiasts, and those interested in Scottish cultural heritage. The mound’s elevated position provides a unique vantage point, enhancing the sense of connection to the past and the natural environment.

Significance in Scottish Cultural Heritage

As a rare surviving example of a 17th-century dovecote, Boath Doocot holds cultural and historical significance. It embodies traditional agricultural practices and estate life in Scotland’s Highlands. Its preservation by the National Trust for Scotland ensures that this piece of rural heritage continues to educate and inspire visitors, linking present-day Scotland with its rich historical tapestry.

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