Willington Dovecote and Stables

From within the dovecote at Willington you can imagine the overwhelming noise and smell of three thousand pigeons in this prized Tudor dovecote, one of four remaining buildings in this historic manorial complex.

With stylish stepped gables and an impressive timber roof, the stables would have been a prominent feature in John Gostwick’s remarkable new development at Willington in the late 1530s.

Explore the Bedford River Valley Park on this walk that takes a meandering riverside route beside the Great Ouse passing two lakes and taking the route of an old railway line along the way.

Discover how lord of the manor John Gostwick’s role in the dissolution of the monasteries led to the creation of an impressive manorial complex at Willington over 450 years ago.

Having started his career in the service of Cardinal Wolsey, John Gostwick’s position and profile grew under King Henry VIII. Follow the impressive career that led to Gostwick’s knighthood in 1540.

Find out how Willington Dovecote came to be a National Trust property and the role Caroline Orlebar played in its acquisition.