Barton Spring, Bedfordshire, England

## Overview Barton Spring is a natural public drinking spring nestled in the heart of the White Clay Valley in Bedfordshire, England. Known for its excellent, clean, and perpetually flowing water, this spring has long been a cherished local resource. The water has a reported pH of 7.3, placing it right at neutral — a quality often associated with pleasant-tasting, well-balanced drinking water. Visitors have reported the water tastes clean and refreshing, and the spring is said to flow year-round without interruption. The surrounding landscape is quintessentially English — peaceful, green, and steeped in rural charm. The White Clay Valley provides a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely walk, making Barton Spring not just a water source but a destination for anyone looking to connect with nature in the Bedfordshire countryside. Access is completely free, with no fees or restricted hours — the spring is entirely natural and open to the public at all times. ## Directions 1. Head to the village of Barton-le-Clay in Bedfordshire. The spring's GPS coordinates are **51.961612, -0.422206**. 2. Make your way toward the local church — the walk from the village takes approximately 10–15 minutes along a single path. 3. Just after passing the graveyard (churchyard), look for a connecting path that branches off. 4. Take this connector path to reach the spring. There are multiple route options through the valley, and each one offers equally beautiful scenery. *Note: These directions are based on the original visitor submission and have not been independently verified. Using the GPS coordinates alongside these instructions is recommended.* ## What to Expect Barton Spring is a free-flowing natural spring set in the tranquil White Clay Valley. The water flows continuously and has been described by visitors as excellent and clean, with a measured pH of 7.3. The spring is publicly accessible with no gates, fees, or opening hours to worry about. The walk to the spring is part of the experience — the 10–15 minute stroll from the church passes through lovely Bedfordshire countryside, with several path options that wind through the valley. The area around the spring is peaceful and scenic, ideal for a quiet afternoon walk, a picnic, or simply pausing to enjoy the natural surroundings. As with any natural water source, conditions can vary, and the water quality has not been officially certified for drinking — though it has historically been used as a public drinking spring by locals and visitors alike.