Take care near the main road, this one is best approach from the village green. Welcome to Dovenby and good luck in your search. The village is made up of around 65 homes including 4 farms and a pub. Centered around the Grade II listed Dovenby Hall the settlment can be traced back to 1154 when the Pele* Tower came about. In the 16th Century, extensions were made, creating a north and south lodge on the estate. In the late 17th Century, further extensions were made to the rear of the Hall, including the creation of a kitchen, staff quarters and additional living rooms for the owners. During its history it has served as a private residence (1154 - 1930), a mental institution (1930–1997), and, most recently, as the headquarters for M-Sport rally car manufacturer.
* Pele (or Peel) Towers were common in the England/Scottish borderlands as fortified housesteads to protect against the local outlaws gangs know as Reivers. Unfortunatly the pele tower at Dovenby isn't acessable to the public but it is in good condition as it forms part of the main hall