Lion’s Mouth Fountain, Well Head Spring, Selborne

## Overview The Lion's Mouth Fountain at Well Head Spring is a historic public drinking spring located in the picturesque village of Selborne, Hampshire, England. Situated along the B3006 road, this charming fountain features a carved lion's head from which spring water flows — a classic design found at many traditional English village springs and wells. Selborne itself is renowned as the home of the pioneering naturalist Gilbert White (1720–1793), whose celebrated work *The Natural History and Antiquities of Selborne* helped establish the village as a place of deep ecological and historical interest. Well Head Spring has long served as a communal water source for the village, and the lion's mouth spout is a beloved local landmark. The spring rises near the head of the Oakhanger Stream, which flows through the Selborne valley. Historically, natural springs like this one were vital to rural communities before the advent of mains water, and many were adorned with decorative stonework as a mark of civic pride. Visitors have historically used the spring as a source of drinking water, though water quality can vary over time and with environmental conditions. ## Directions 1. From Alton, head south on the **B3006** toward Selborne (approximately 4 miles). 2. As you enter the village of Selborne, continue along the B3006 (which serves as the main road through the village). 3. The Lion's Mouth Fountain is located roadside along the B3006, near the centre of the village. 4. Look for the distinctive carved lion's head spout set into stonework at the side of the road. 5. **GPS coordinates:** 51.091551, -0.938465. 6. Limited roadside parking is available in the village; there is also a car park near The Selborne Arms and the Gilbert White's House & Gardens. ## What to Expect The Lion's Mouth Fountain is a small but characterful roadside spring, easily accessible on foot from anywhere in the village. The water emerges from a carved lion's head — a traditional decorative feature that gives the fountain its name. The flow is typically steady, though it may vary seasonally. Selborne is a quintessential English village set beneath the wooded slopes of Selborne Hanger, a steep beech-clad hillside that is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. A visit to the fountain pairs well with a walk along the famous Zigzag Path (created by Gilbert White and his brother) up to the top of the Hanger, or a visit to Gilbert White's House & Gardens, which is just a short stroll away. The spring is publicly accessible year-round and is located right along the main road, making it easy to find. The surrounding area is well-maintained and pleasant for a brief stop. As with any natural spring, water quality is not officially monitored for drinking purposes — the spring has been historically used as a drinking water source, but visitors should be aware that conditions can change.