Gainford Spa

## Overview Gainford Spa is a sulphurous natural spring located near the village of Gainford in County Durham, England. Gainford itself is a picturesque village on the north bank of the River Tees, known for its historic village green and centuries-old architecture. The spa spring has long been noted for its distinctive sulphurous character — a hallmark of mineral-rich water rising through the region's underlying limestone and gypsum deposits. Visitors have reported that, despite its sulphurous aroma, the water tastes remarkably good, and it has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals and travellers alike. Sulphur springs like this one were once highly prized across northern England for their perceived health benefits, and many were developed into small spa sites during the 18th and 19th centuries. Gainford Spa is a surviving example of this tradition — a modest but cherished public drinking spring that continues to draw visitors curious about its mineral water. ## Directions 1. Head to the village of Gainford, which sits along the A67 between Barnard Castle and Darlington in County Durham. 2. Look for a lay-by along the A67 near Gainford. 3. The spring is accessed from a small road or track that runs alongside this lay-by. 4. The spring itself is located just off this road — keep an eye out for the flow of water and any local signage. *GPS coordinates: 54.5473, -1.7389 — use these for precise navigation if the lay-by is not immediately obvious.* ## What to Expect Gainford Spa is a roadside spring, making it relatively easy to access without a long walk. The water has a noticeable sulphurous smell, which is typical of springs that pass through sulphur-bearing geological formations. Despite this, many visitors have reported that the water tastes clean and refreshing once you get past the initial aroma. The spring is situated in the pleasant Teesdale countryside, and the village of Gainford itself is well worth a wander — its expansive green, Georgian houses, and Norman-era church make for a lovely complement to a spring visit. Flow may vary with the seasons, so the spring could be more vigorous after periods of rain. There is limited parking at the lay-by, so be mindful of other road users when stopping.