Seven Wells, Bisley

## Overview Seven Wells is a historic public drinking spring located in the charming Cotswold village of Bisley, near Stroud in Gloucestershire, England. Situated along Wells Road, this remarkable collection of seven spring-fed spouts has served the local community for centuries and remains one of the most distinctive heritage features of the village. The Seven Wells of Bisley are believed to date back to at least the medieval period, when natural springs were vital sources of fresh water for rural communities across the Cotswolds. The wells are fed by natural springs emerging from the oolitic limestone that characterises this part of the Cotswold escarpment — a geological formation renowned for filtering rainwater through layers of porous rock, producing notably clear and mineral-rich water. The springs are set into an ornate stone structure that was restored in the 19th century, reportedly under the direction of the Reverend Thomas Keble (brother of the more famous John Keble), who was vicar of Bisley from 1827 and undertook significant restoration work throughout the village. Each year, the Seven Wells play a central role in Bisley's Well Dressing ceremony, a tradition with roots stretching back centuries in which the wells are decorated with flowers and blessed in a celebration of thanksgiving for the gift of clean water. This custom, more commonly associated with Derbyshire, makes Bisley's observance particularly notable in the Gloucestershire context. The water from Seven Wells has historically been used as a drinking water source by villagers and visitors alike, though as with any natural spring, water quality can vary and independent testing is always advisable before consumption. ## Directions 1. From Stroud, head east on the A419 towards Cirencester. 2. After approximately 2 miles, turn left onto the road signposted for Bisley. 3. Follow the road into Bisley village. As you enter the village, look for Wells Road. 4. The Seven Wells are located along Wells Road (postcode GL6 7AG), set into a stone structure on the roadside. They are clearly visible and well-signposted within the village. 5. Limited roadside parking is available nearby. The village is compact and best explored on foot. **GPS Coordinates:** 51.75105, -2.140635 ## What to Expect Visitors to Seven Wells will find a beautifully preserved stone structure housing seven individual spring-fed spouts, set into a wall along Wells Road in the heart of Bisley. The water flows from carved stone heads or niches, creating a picturesque and tranquil scene that is a favourite with photographers and history enthusiasts. The surrounding village of Bisley is a quintessential Cotswold settlement, with honey-coloured stone cottages, narrow lanes, and the impressive All Saints' Church nearby. The area is excellent for walking, with numerous footpaths leading out into the rolling Gloucestershire countryside. The wells are accessible year-round and are free to visit. Water flow may vary seasonally, with the strongest flow typically occurring during wetter months from autumn through spring. If you visit in late May or early June, you may be lucky enough to witness the annual Well Dressing ceremony, when the wells are adorned with elaborate floral displays. The site is on a public road and is wheelchair-accessible, though the surrounding village lanes can be steep and uneven in places. There are no formal facilities at the wells themselves, but the village of Bisley has a pub and a church that are worth visiting while you're there.