Minchinhampton Spring, Nailsworth, Gloucestershire, UK

## Overview Minchinhampton Spring is a continuously flowing public spring located on the edge of the historic Minchinhampton Common in the Cotswolds, near the town of Nailsworth in Gloucestershire, England. The spring draws its water from the protected commons land that has been grazed and cherished by local communities for centuries. The water is untreated and flows year-round, making it a point of interest for spring water enthusiasts and walkers exploring this beautiful corner of the Cotswolds. Minchinhampton Common itself is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is managed by the National Trust. The common sits on a high limestone plateau of Jurassic oolitic limestone, which naturally filters rainwater as it percolates through the rock before emerging at springs along the plateau's edges. Springs like this one have historically served as vital water sources for the surrounding settlements, long before mains water was available. The area around Nailsworth and Minchinhampton has been inhabited since at least the Iron Age, and the commons have been in continuous use for grazing and public access for many hundreds of years. The spring is accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and is free to visit. While the water has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals and visitors, it is untreated and unmonitored — visitors should be aware of this when considering collection. ## Directions 1. From the centre of Nailsworth, head north on the road towards Minchinhampton (the B4014 / Minchinhampton Hill). 2. Follow the road uphill as it climbs steeply out of the Nailsworth valley towards Minchinhampton Common. 3. The spring is located at approximately GPS coordinates **51.688435, -2.224093**, on the edge of the common near the transition between the town and the open grassland. 4. Look for a small stone or pipe outlet where water flows continuously from the hillside. 5. Parking is available on the common itself (Minchinhampton Common has open roadside parking in several spots) or in Nailsworth town centre if you prefer to walk up. *Note: These directions are approximate based on the GPS coordinates provided. The spring can be tricky to spot if you're unfamiliar with the area — look for signs of flowing water along the roadside or ask locals, who are generally familiar with it.* ## What to Expect Minchinhampton Spring offers a continuous flow of water emerging from the Cotswold limestone. The surrounding landscape is quintessentially English — rolling green commons dotted with grazing cattle and horses, dry stone walls, and far-reaching views across the Stroud valleys. The common is a wonderful place for walking, and visiting the spring can easily be combined with a longer ramble. The spring is outdoors and unenclosed, so come prepared for the weather — the exposed common can be windy, and the Cotswolds receive a fair amount of rainfall year-round. The terrain around the spring may be muddy, particularly in autumn and winter, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Nailsworth itself is a charming small town with independent shops, cafés, and pubs, making it a pleasant base for a visit. The nearby Minchinhampton village is also worth exploring, with its historic Market House and connections to the wool trade that once made this part of Gloucestershire prosperous.