Ffynnon y Clawdd Llesg, Meifod, Powys, Wales

## Overview Ffynnon y Clawdd Llesg is a historic public drinking spring nestled in the rolling countryside near the village of Meifod in Powys, Mid Wales. The name translates roughly from Welsh as "The Well of the Feeble Ditch" (or "Weak Embankment"), hinting at its association with an ancient earthwork or boundary feature in the landscape. Springs bearing the prefix *Ffynnon* (meaning "well" or "spring") are deeply rooted in Welsh tradition, often linked to early Christian saints, healing rituals, or centuries-old communal water sources. While specific historical records for this spring are limited, its listing on the Megalithic Portal (megalithic.co.uk) suggests it holds archaeological or antiquarian interest, and it has likely served as a local water source for generations. The spring is situated in a beautifully rural setting near Spout Wood, accessed via a short uphill walk through gorse-covered hillside. It is open year-round and freely accessible to the public, though reaching it requires a bit of effort and navigation. Visitors who have sought out this spring describe the experience as a rewarding countryside ramble with scenic views of the Meifod valley. ## Directions Ffynnon y Clawdd Llesg can be a little tricky to find, so follow these step-by-step directions carefully: 1. **Start in Meifod** and follow the **A495** heading towards **Newbridge-on-Vyrnwy**. 2. **Turn left** just after crossing the bridge at Newbridge. 3. **Continue straight ahead**, passing **Lower Hall Farm** on your route. 4. **Park near the gate** to the left of the house at the end of the accessible road. (Space is limited, so be considerate of farm access.) 5. **Continue on foot** up the farm road, keeping **Spout Wood** on your left. 6. At the gate to Spout Wood, **turn right**. 7. **Watch for a sign on the right-hand side** — it marks a path that climbs uphill through gorse bushes. 8. Follow the path until you reach a **wooden footbridge**, near which the spring is located. **GPS coordinates:** 52.68914, -3.254544 — these can be entered into a mapping app to help guide you to the general area, though the final approach is on foot. ## What to Expect The walk to Ffynnon y Clawdd Llesg takes you through classic Mid Wales pastoral countryside. After leaving your vehicle near the farmhouse, you'll follow a farm track alongside Spout Wood before branching off onto a narrower path through gorse. The terrain is uneven and can be muddy, particularly after rain — sturdy walking boots are recommended. The spring itself is in a quiet, secluded spot reached via a wooden footbridge. Water flow and condition may vary seasonally. As a historically used public drinking spring, the water has traditionally been consumed by locals, though no modern water quality testing data is currently available. The area around Meifod is rich in history — the village was once the seat of the princes of Powys and home to a significant early medieval church. A visit to the spring pairs well with exploring the wider Meifod valley, its ancient churchyard, and the surrounding network of footpaths and bridleways. The spring is accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There are no facilities at the site, so come prepared. The nearest amenities are back in Meifod village.