St Anthony's Well (Cinderford)Gloucestershire

## Overview St Anthony's Well is an ancient natural spring nestled in the Forest of Dean near Cinderford, Gloucestershire. Believed to date back many centuries, this spring is one of several holy wells scattered throughout the Forest of Dean — a landscape steeped in history stretching from the Iron Age through Roman occupation and beyond. One of the most striking features of St Anthony's Well is the Roman-built stone bathing pond situated directly in front of the spring. This stone-lined pool, thought to have been constructed during the Roman period, served as a place for bathing and possibly ritual use, and it marks the point where the spring water emerges. The presence of Roman stonework speaks to the long history of human reverence for this water source and the broader significance of natural springs in Roman-British culture. The water from St Anthony's Well has been described by visitors as exceptionally clean and delicious. The spring benefits from its location deep within the forest, well away from agricultural land, which means there are no nearby farms that might affect water quality. The site is referenced in the Megalithic Portal's database of ancient and sacred sites, underscoring its archaeological and cultural importance. ## Directions St Anthony's Well is located in the Forest of Dean, near the town of Cinderford, Gloucestershire. 1. Head to the Cinderford area of the Forest of Dean. The spring's GPS coordinates are approximately **51.838923, -2.48037**. 2. The well is situated within the forest itself, so be prepared for a walk along forest paths to reach it. 3. Using the GPS coordinates with a mapping app or handheld GPS device is recommended, as the spring can be difficult to locate without precise navigation. 4. Look for the distinctive Roman stone bathing pond — this marks the spring's location. *Note: The Forest of Dean has many unmarked trails and paths. Visiting during daylight hours and wearing appropriate footwear for woodland terrain is advisable.* ## What to Expect Upon arriving at St Anthony's Well, you'll find a tranquil woodland setting characteristic of the Forest of Dean. The centrepiece is the ancient Roman stone bathing pond, a remarkable piece of surviving stonework that sits directly at the spring's source. The spring water feeds into this stone basin, and the flow has historically been reliable. The surrounding forest provides a peaceful, shaded atmosphere, and the absence of nearby farmland contributes to the spring's reputation for clean water. Visitors have reported the water tastes fresh and pure, though as with any wild water source, conditions can vary. The site has a sacred, contemplative quality — St Anthony's Well is one of many "holy wells" found across the British Isles, places where natural springs were venerated for their perceived healing or spiritual properties. The dedication to St Anthony suggests early Christian associations layered over what was likely a much older pre-Christian site of water veneration. The terrain is typical of the Forest of Dean: wooded, sometimes muddy, and uneven. Sturdy walking shoes or boots are recommended. There are no formal facilities at the spring itself, so plan accordingly.