Kilwinning Abbey - The Doocot

The Doocot

A large ornamental Gothic lectern style Doocot, dovecot (English spelling) or columbarium is located near the scanty remains of the Eglinton Mains farm at Eglinton, situated on the 'Long Drive' towards Sourlie Hill interchange. 55°38′18.2″N 4°39′26.8″W / 55.638389°N 4.657444°W / 55.638389; -4.657444 It is said to have come from the abbey which was latterly a possession of the Earls of Eglinton.

The design is from the 16th or 17th-centuries, the abbey having been dissolved in around 1560. The architectural style is in keeping with the 1802 castle, however the ornamental door carvings and the stones may well have all come from the old abbey. Ness categorically states that the dovecot was moved to its present position in 1898 - 1900 and was hopeful that it would be restored to the abbey grounds.

• The Eglinton doocot prior to restoration. The local council had used it as a vehicle store.

• The Doocot - the Kilwinning facing end

• The restored doocot (dovecot)

• Medieval carving on the doocot, originally from Kilwinning Abbey