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Unique self-contained 1bed Grade II Listed Dovecote/Farm Barn

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The Dovecote
The Dovecote
The Dovecote
Exterior
Outdoor dining

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue
  • Fireplace

Explore the area

View map
Saffron Walden, England
  • Place, Audley End House
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Place, Market Square
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Place, Imperial War Museum Duxford
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Airport, London (STN-Stansted)
    ‪27 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Unique self-contained 1bed Grade II Listed Dovecote/Farm Barn

Newly renovated barn to a genuinely high spec - Grade II listed 'Dovecote' located on a working arable farm in a lovely remote setting in the Essex countryside.

Situated next to a small duck pond, overlooking the farmyard/old stables/etc as well as the local church, The Dovecote is a two-storey brick and oak framed building finished to an incredibly high standard. Peaceful & remote with its own courtyard, the Dovecote has an elevated location in the otherwise undeveloped yard.

The Dovecote has a 'one-up, one-down' layout which has been uniquely transformed into the perfect space for a rural getaway.

Enter via the original barn doorway through oak framed glass doors onto the ground floor laid with reclaimed brick flooring and consisting of a living room area with cosy log burner, a dining area and a well equipped bespoke kitchenette made from potato boxes!

Oak stairs lead up to the first floor revealing the full effect of the beautifully exposed original oak beamed roof, under which is a luxury kingsize bed. An oak chest and a clothes stand/rail provide plenty of storage and there is a discreet TV upstairs too.

An original sliding barn door leads through to the en-suite shower/bathroom with a fantastic partial-glass wall and bespoke sink cabinet made from old farm tools and a slice of elm tree!

Dedicated on-site WIFI.

Kitchen includes:
Fan Oven
Gas Hob
Microwave
Fridge
Toaster
Kettle
Radio

Heating:
Underfloor heating throughout
Plus Log Burner during Winter

Outside:
Shingle Courtyard with seating
( outside space is still a 'work in progress' so will be constantly evolving over the summer, please do ask any questions and/or we'll happily share an update/photos of current progress of the outside)


Located in Langley, Essex, the Dovecote is in walking distance (less than half a mile) from the local pub The Bull, and is only 3 miles from Clavering where there is a local shop along with Clavering Lakes (bistro restaurant & fishing lakes), The Fox & Hounds, and the well-known Cricketers gastro pub.

Langley and the surrounding villages have several public footpaths easily accessible from here.

Newport railway station is under a 10min drive away, and Audley End station approx 10mins, both of which offer trains direct to Cambridge and to central London.

Stansted Airport is a 20min drive away, or 10min direct train journey from Audley End railway station.

Saffron Walden is the nearest town, roughly 15min drive away, and Cambridge is approx 35mins drive.

Audley End House & Estate (English Heritage) is approx 10mins drive and there are plenty of National Trust destinations dotted around the local South East area.


NB: Due to the remote location a car will be needed to access The Dovecote.

Also worth bearing in mind that due to this being a working farm there may be periods during the year that we have more activity going on than normal, most notably during harvest! Accommodation is still of course completely accessible, etc.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Saffron Walden

Located in Saffron Walden, this holiday home is in a rural area. Audley End House and Prior's Hall Barn are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Red White and Blue Country Park and RSPB Fowlmere Nature Reserve. Saffron Walden Amazes and Bridge End Gardens are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with nearby fishing, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling.
View more Holiday homes in Saffron WaldenOpens in a new window
Map
Saffron Walden, England

What's nearby

  • Audley End House - 13 min drive - 13.1 km
  • Market Square - 15 min drive - 16.7 km
  • The Common - 15 min drive - 16.7 km
  • Bridge End Gardens - 16 min drive - 17.0 km
  • Imperial War Museum Duxford - 18 min drive - 19.7 km

Getting around

  • Audley End Station - 14 min drive
  • London (STN-Stansted) - 29 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Black Bull - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪The Bell Inn - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪The Cricketers - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪The Cricketers Arms - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪The Buntingford Coffee Shop - ‬19 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Unique self-contained 1bed Grade II Listed Dovecote/Farm Barn pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Unique self-contained 1bed Grade II Listed Dovecote/Farm Barn?

As of 29 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Unique self-contained 1bed Grade II Listed Dovecote/Farm Barn on 10 May 2026 start from AU$218, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Unique self-contained 1bed Grade II Listed Dovecote/Farm Barn?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Unique self-contained 1bed Grade II Listed Dovecote/Farm Barn?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Unique self-contained 1bed Grade II Listed Dovecote/Farm Barn?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Unique self-contained 1bed Grade II Listed Dovecote/Farm Barn located?

Situated in a rural location, this holiday home is within 9 miles (15 km) of Dog-ease, BARKway Dog Park and Audley End House. Prior's Hall Barn and Saffron Walden Amazes are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 20 out of 22 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 22 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 22 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 22 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 22 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

ACC B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely unique space. Perfect for two. Good communication from host.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

aine c.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing Getaway

Myself and my husband thoroughly enjoyed our break at the stunning Dovecote. From start to finish the check in and out process was smooth and the host most friendly. The Dovecote is beautifully decorated, with the host having paid thoughtful attention to accessories, amenities and furnishings to ensure the most relaxing of stays. Furthermore, the property was clean and tidy,as well as being located in a quiet and picturesque location- a real pleasure to stay in. Thank you very much for having us.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Another delightful stay at the Dovecote

We were both so happy to have another opportunity to stay at the Dovecote as it holds a special place in our hearts and feels like a little secret place just made for the two of us. As always, the property was immaculate and the communication with Mel friendly and welcoming. We love the Dovecote and would recommend it to anyone wishing for peace and comfort in equal measure.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pascal O.

Lovely remote getaway surrounded by beautiful countryside

Highly recommended, the weekend stay was exactly what we had in mind. The cottage is self-contained with all the basic facilities you would need for a comfortable stay, plus some nice touches and luxuries provided by the hosts. The cottage itself feels recently refurbished, to a high standard and with careful attention to detail. The surrounding area is stunning and we easily found our way around the many public footpaths through rolling fields thanks to the recommended walking routes and OS maps helpfully provided in the cottage. The owner was highly responsive to all communications.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diana R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful, cosy, delightful!

Our third stay. Enables us to visit our dear friend each year. We love the place and choose a walk to discover a little bit of Essex, Hatfield Forest this time. Had a lovely lunch at Poppy's Barn and another at Debden Barns...lots of catching-up chats! Really excellent to come back each day, quickly light the stove and settle in comfortably. A perfect place to be for a few days.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen Mann

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely spot

Dovecote is comfortable and full of character with plenty of space for 2 people. Moorhen chicks in pond, flowers on table treats in fridge. Everything worked well.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect little bolt hole!

The Dovecote is exactly as it looks in the pics. Perfect for two, but with plenty of crockery and cutlery and space… it’s a tardis! The owner, Mel, was at the end of the ‘phone if we needed her, but otherwise left us completely to ourselves, which was also great. It’s in SUCH a quiet spot and we felt calmed and chilled by the time we left, and we were only there for two nights. Surrounded by countryside and trees, if you’re into forest bathing, it’s perfect for you. We live in Norfolk, but had no idea just how GORGEOUS the borders of Cambridgeshire and Essex were ‘till now. It’s a treat for the eyes. We loved it and will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diana R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful place, welcome and environment!

We love staying here! Such a brilliant renovation, beautiful wood everywhere, such clever use of recycled farm components such as barn doors! Just cosy, warm and ....well, perfect!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sally-Ann M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Dovecote

Areal gem
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021
Verified

8/10 Good

Caroline J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely location

Cosy, quiet and safe place to stay whilst visiting Duxford air show.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tamara W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful, cosy retreat!

Beautifullly renovated, cosy, relaxing Dovecote where we had a fantastic stay. Tranquil location, beautiful countryside, lovely places to visit, an enjoyable stay all round.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracey M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful, beautiful break in the country

Thoroughly enjoyed being here, a chance to unwind and enjoy simple pleasures like birdsong and countryside!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katherine H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderfully tranquil

The Dovecote is such a special place. It has been beautifully renovated and every little detail thought about to create a wonderful place to stay. The surrounding countryside is beautiful and peaceful with lots of walks, places to visit, and nice pubs. Mel, the host, was really easy to contact and super helpful. Overall we loved our stay, thank you!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Johanna M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful getaway

We needed a couple of days to get away from a stressful few months working in a busy environment during the COVID pandemic. Dovecote was the perfect getaway! Peaceful in a beautiful cottage away from the stress of daily life. Thank you Mel for a delightful experience. Johanna and Aino
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The perfect break

After having a particularly bad year, the 2 days at the Dovecote was the perfect remedy. The attention to detail is amazing in this beautifully renovated barn/dovecote. We cannot wait to return.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

roz a.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely fabulous venue.

The setting was beautiful and a wonderful retreat and a place to experience the slow lane of life.Highly recommend.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tim W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Dovecote

Excellent accommodation to a very high standard. Mel made us feel very welcome and was very helpful. I would highly recommend this as an excellent place to stay. And would definitely stay there again. Tim
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

What we hoped for

Comfortable and well furnished with thoughtful additions, such as flowers and cake when we arrived and food in the fridge. We had a couple of teething problems, which were quickly dealt with. Unfortunately no phone signal at the property hampered communication, but WiFi was fine. Following satnav got us nearly there, but it would have been helpful to have more directions in the village. The property was well supplied with tourist information, apart from places to eat. Overall it was everything we wanted.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christine W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relax

Lovely little place. Mel is an excellent host. Thank you
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chea R.

Great classically themed, modern house! Home away from home.

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay this weekend at The Dovecote. From the beginning Mel was both accomodating and welcoming, helping us by being flexible in terms of timings when possible and also welcoming us with some homely treats left in the accomodation. My partner and I wanted a long weekend (Friday to Sunday) away to relax and unwind and The Dovecote provided just that. There were plenty of things to do around the area, but when we got there the weather was dreadful so we were just as content staying in and relaxing by the woodburner with a glass of wine, some home cooked meals and telly. The bed is extremely comfortable (didn't want to leave it) and such a lovely rain shower. The house was surprisingly very warm, with only needing to put the fire on when we first arrived, and turn up the floor heating. For the days after we did not need to light the fire again as the floor heating was enough for a very toasty environment. I would recommend stocking up on supplies before arriving to allow for full enjoyment if not wanting to leave the house, as the supermarkets are a little bit of a drive out. All in all we really enjoyed our trip, and will definitely be making a return. Thanks Mel!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2019
Verified

8/10 Good

Laura H.

An excellent place to unwind

We had a lovely stay at the Dovecote. Mel was a great host- there was some lovely fruit cake, milk and eggs on arrival which was much appreciated. We enjoyed some lovely walks in the snow and found some nice local pubs. The log burner made it lovely and snug whilst it was chilly outside. Thank you Mel :)
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diana R.

A wonderful renovation which has created a cosy comfortable hideaway.

Our first stay using homeaway. Could not have been better in any way. A lot of work and clever imagination has gone into the sympathetic renovation of this dovecote and the interior decoration and ambience is creative and very much in character. The owner is generous and thoughtful, in our case putting up a fairly large and beautifully decorated Christmas tree and leaving the lights on for our arrival. There were fairy lights strung across the beam above the bed. The lighting throughout is atmospheric. The heated floors are a real treat and keep all areas warm and cosy. If it is really cold there is a wood burner which is perfect, the flue going through the bedroom keeping that toasty warm too. The kitchen area is perfectly adequate and well equipped...we ate in two out of three nights. The owner left for us a cake, bottle of bubbly and a few fridge items, and many other little touches, so thoughtful and generous. We've sat for several hours in the living room chatting with our friend who lives nearby and who we haven't seen for over a year...it just couldn't have been a better place to catch up. Even though it took us almost five hours to get there, we will most certainly stay at the Dovecote again when we go to see our friend.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2018

About the host

Hosted by Mel

Host profile image

Why they chose this property

The Dovecote is a barn on the family farm. Until this renovation it was falling into disrepair so by creating a 1bed outhouse we're trying to give it a new life.
This is the first renovation our family has ever done so we may have got a little carried away, a lot of attention to detail and personal ideals have gone into creating a cosy, fun and inviting space for guests to enjoy.

What makes this property unique

Such a unique property, the Dovecote has a barrel load of one-off characteristics;

* Original oak beams throughout
* Kitchen custom made from old potato boxes from the farm
* All internal doors are made from reclaimed barn doors/wood from the farm
* Wine glasses hang from a rake in the kitchen
* Bathroom walls are partially made of glass to maintain the stunning view of the original oak beamed ceiling
* Bathroom cabinet is made from a huge slice of elm tree and old farm tools
* Peaceful remote location

Languages:

English
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