18 Feb 2008 - Restoration of Redhall Doocot (dovecote) by CEC now completed
This historic building dating from 1756 can be found at the north end of Redhall House Drive standing at the top of a little wooded glen leading down to the Water of Leith.
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The hexagonal doocot was built in 1756 for George Inglis who had purchased the Redhall estate in 1755.
It had fallen into serious disrepair over the years and lost its roof. It was also largely hidden by vegetation.
The restoration has seen a natural slate roof put in place and the walls treated with harling and given an overall limewash (a decorative and protective coating). An access path has also been provided. |
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When originally built, a mid-16th century armorial panel of the Otterburn family was incorporated into the north face. This had been once been part of Redhall Castle and the arms are thought to be those of Sir Adam Otterburne who was the Lord Provost of Edinburgh in various years between 1522 and 1547 and also a Lord Advocate of Scotland. There are a number of animal heads incorporated that may have been meant to represent those of otters but the most striking aspect is the two magnificent rampant wyverns (legendary winged serpents or dragons) flanking the crest. The motto of the Otterburns “De virtute in virtutem” is faintly visible below.
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The roof restoration has included a dummy flight box in the form of a dormer type window on the south side with three rows of entrance holes for the doves. The roof is topped with a ball and a 5-pointed copper star as a representation of the original 9-pointed one that once used to grace the pole.
The City of Edinburgh Council arranged for the renovation work to be carried out. This was done with the the approval of Historic Scotland since it is a category A listed building.
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