The excavation of four trial trenches in the grounds of High Down House, Pirton, Hertfordshire was carried out by Albion Archaeology in advance of proposed building and landscape works. High Down House dates to the early 17th century and lies in an area of archaeological potential. The archaeological works were required by the Local Planning Authority as a condition of the planning permission. This was in accordance with advice received from the County Council Planning Archaeologist. The trenches were positioned to investigate the locations of a new swimming pool and sunken greenhouses, and confirm the position of a demolished dovecote identified on historical maps. The results of the trial trenching indicate that there were no archaeological remains present at the sites of the swimming pool and sunken greenhouses. The site of the probable dovecote was confirmed and evidence suggests that the building dates to the late 17th century. A rubble wall was also found nearby although its origins and purpose are unclear.