
About This Spring
## Overview Selsley Spring is a public drinking spring located on Selsley Common, a beautiful stretch of open grassland and limestone upland near the village of Selsley in Gloucestershire, England (postcode area GL10). Situated at approximately 51.729°N, 2.252°W, the spring sits within the Cotswolds — a region renowned for its natural springs fed by rainwater filtering through layers of oolitic limestone, which can impart a clean, mineral character to the water. Selsley Common itself is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a popular area for walking, with panoramic views across the Severn Vale toward the Forest of Dean and the Welsh hills. The common has been used as shared grazing land for centuries, and its springs have historically served as important water sources for the local community. The spring has been reported to flow quickly and consistently, producing water that visitors have described as beautifully clear. ## Directions 1. From the centre of Stroud, head southwest on the B4066 toward Selsley. 2. Follow signs for Selsley and Selsley Common — the road climbs steadily uphill. 3. As you reach Selsley Common, look for informal parking areas along the roadside where the common opens up. 4. The spring is located on the common at GPS coordinates **51.729211, -2.251706**. Using a GPS device or smartphone mapping app to navigate to these coordinates is recommended, as the spring may not be signposted. 5. The terrain is open grassland with some uneven ground, so sturdy footwear is advisable. ## What to Expect Selsley Spring offers a fast-flowing, clear water source set against the scenic backdrop of Selsley Common. The water emerges naturally and has historically been used as a public drinking spring, though as with any wild water source, visitors should be aware that water quality can vary with weather and seasonal conditions. The common itself is a wonderful place to explore — its unimproved limestone grassland supports a rich variety of wildflowers and butterflies, particularly in spring and summer. The elevated position provides sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. There are no formal facilities at the spring, so visitors should come prepared. The area is freely accessible year-round as common land, making it an easy stop for walkers exploring the Cotswold Way or the wider Stroud Valleys trail network. The spring is best visited after a period of dry weather when paths across the common are firmer underfoot.
Getting There
Address
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GPS Coordinates
51.729211, -2.251706
Directions
Community SubmittedDirections 1. From the centre of Stroud, head southwest on the B4066 toward Selsley. 2. Follow signs for Selsley and Selsley Common — the road climbs steadily uphill. 3. As you reach Selsley Common, look for informal parking areas along the roadside where the common opens up. 4. The spring is located on the common at
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Water Safety Disclaimer
Try Water does not independently test, verify, or guarantee the quality, safety, or potability of any water source listed on this site. Listings are based on publicly available data, community contributions, and historical reports — not laboratory analysis.
Water conditions at natural springs can change at any time due to weather, contamination, agricultural runoff, seasonal variation, or other environmental factors. A spring that was safe to drink from yesterday may not be safe today.
Always test water yourself before drinking. We strongly recommend using a portable water testing kit or filter (such as a LifeStraw) and consulting local health authorities when in doubt. Never rely solely on the information provided here when making decisions about drinking from a natural water source.
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Quick Facts
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Tips
Bring empty jugs or bottles to fill up.
Accessible by road — pull off carefully.
Parking available nearby.
Safety Info
Always test or filter water from natural springs before drinking. Water quality can change seasonally.
Bring your own containers. A portable water filter like a LifeStraw is recommended.
Respect the environment. Pack out everything you bring in.