Caesar's Well, London

## Overview Caesar's Well is a historic natural spring located on Wimbledon Common in southwest London. The name "Caesar" is believed to be the original designation for this ancient water source, which has served the local area for centuries. The well was unfortunately abandoned by the government in the early 20th century, and a borehole was subsequently installed to allow the spring water to flow through a standpipe and into a large underground cistern. The spring does not flow continuously due to low water pressure, so visitors may find varying levels of activity depending on the season and recent rainfall. A visitor in September 2015 recorded a water temperature of 12°C and a total dissolved solids (TDS) reading of 90 ppm, suggesting relatively soft, low-mineral water. While the well itself is no longer maintained for drinking purposes, the spring water continues to flow into the cistern below — a fascinating remnant of London's once-vital relationship with its natural water sources. Nearby, Springwell Cottage marks the location, and the surrounding landscape of Wimbledon Common — with its ancient woodland, open heathland, and golf courses — makes the journey to Caesar's Well a rewarding walk in its own right. ## Directions ### On Foot from Wimbledon High Street 1. Head towards Wimbledon Common from Wimbledon High Street. 2. Take the straight road to the right of Rushmere Pond. 3. You'll reach Canizaro Road — cross it and continue walking until you arrive at Camp Road. 4. Look for a pink house on your right, just before the Fox & Grapes pub. 5. Follow Camp Road until you reach the edge of the golf course. 6. Turn onto Sunset Road, the main path that runs between the golf courses. You will see a white gate. 7. Follow this road all the way until you see Springwell Cottage on your right. There is a small parking area in front. 8. The well and spring are just ahead. ### By Car or Bicycle 1. From Wimbledon High Street, take the exit and turn right onto The Causeway. 2. Follow The Causeway to Camp Road. 3. Turn left onto Sunset Road. 4. You can park at the bottom of Sunset Road and continue on foot. ### Final Approach to the Spring 1. From the parking area near Springwell Cottage, take the path slightly to the left — the one with logs along it. This is the shortest route. 2. Follow this path straight ahead, then turn left. 3. You will soon reach a clearing surrounded by tall pine trees. 4. The old well is in the centre of the clearing (note: this well is no longer a drinking water source). 5. Walk downhill from the well to reach the cistern where the spring water flows. You should be able to hear the water running. ## What to Expect Caesar's Well sits in a peaceful, wooded clearing on Wimbledon Common, surrounded by tall pine trees. The well structure itself is a historic relic — no longer maintained for public use — but the real draw is the cistern below, where spring water can still be heard (and sometimes seen) flowing through the old borehole system. The spring's flow is intermittent and depends on water pressure, so there may be times when little or no water is visible. The area around the well is somewhat overgrown and rustic, adding to its hidden, off-the-beaten-path character. Springwell Cottage, a charming landmark, helps confirm you're in the right spot. The walk from Wimbledon High Street is pleasant and takes you across the Common, past Rushmere Pond, the Fox & Grapes pub (a good stop for refreshments), and between the golf courses. The terrain is mostly flat with a gentle downhill approach to the cistern. Sturdy footwear is recommended, especially in wet weather, as paths can become muddy. This is a wonderful destination for anyone interested in London's hidden natural heritage — a quiet, atmospheric spot that feels worlds away from the city.