Manchester Spring

## Overview Manchester Spring is a beloved natural spring nestled in the Appalachian foothills of Clay County, Kentucky. Located along State Highway 80 in Manchester, this public drinking spring has supplied fresh, free-flowing water to locals and travelers for many decades — likely far longer than anyone can remember. Situated in the heart of eastern Kentucky's rugged mountain landscape, the spring draws from the ancient geological formations of the Appalachian Mountains, where layers of sandstone and limestone naturally filter groundwater before it emerges at the surface. The water from Manchester Spring has long been regarded by locals as clean and refreshing, and generations of Clay County residents have relied on it as a source of drinking water. The spring remains free to access and continues to be a gathering point for community members who prefer its naturally filtered mountain water. ## Directions 1. Head to **State Highway 80** in Manchester, Kentucky. 2. Look for the spring near the address **334 State Hwy 80, Manchester, KY 40962**. 3. The spring is publicly accessible from the roadside — no hiking or special access is required. 4. **GPS coordinates:** 37.133196, -83.76833 — plug these into your navigation app for a precise location. ## What to Expect Manchester Spring is a straightforward, no-frills public water source right along the highway. There's no admission fee and no formal infrastructure beyond the spring itself — just bring your own bottles, jugs, or containers and fill up directly from the flowing water. After filling your containers, visitors are encouraged to walk over and take a look at the actual source of the spring, where the water emerges from the mountainside. The surrounding Appalachian scenery is characteristic of Clay County — wooded hillsides, winding roads, and the quiet beauty of eastern Kentucky's mountain country. Because the spring is roadside and easily accessible, it makes for a convenient stop whether you're passing through Manchester or making a dedicated trip. The spring flows year-round, though flow rates may vary seasonally. As with any natural, untreated water source, the water has historically been used for drinking by locals, but visitors should be aware that it is not formally tested or treated by any municipal authority.