St. Anthony's Well, Mitcheldean, Gloucestershire, England

## Overview St. Anthony's Well is a historic public drinking spring nestled in the woodland near Mitcheldean, a small town in the Forest of Dean district of Gloucestershire, England. Named after St. Anthony — a dedication common among holy wells across Britain, often associated with healing and spiritual significance — this well has long served as a source of natural water for locals and visitors alike. Holy wells bearing the name of saints were frequently sites of pilgrimage and devotion in medieval England, and St. Anthony's Well likely dates back centuries as a valued water source in this richly forested part of the country. The Forest of Dean itself is one of England's oldest woodlands, with a history of human habitation stretching back to prehistoric times, and its many springs and wells have sustained communities for generations. The well is situated in a peaceful wooded setting just off Lower Spout Lane, offering a quiet retreat from the bustle of everyday life. Visitors have historically used the spring as a source of drinking water, though water quality can vary and has not been independently verified. ## Directions 1. From Mitcheldean, locate **Lower Spout Lane** — it can be accessed either from **Jubilee Road** or from **Spout Lane**. 2. Follow Lower Spout Lane heading **south** until you reach a noticeable curve in the road. 3. At the curve, look for a path or entrance leading into the **forested area** on the east side of the lane. 4. Once in the woods, bear **slightly north** along the path. The well is a short walk into the trees. *GPS coordinates: 51.839082, -2.478683 — useful for navigating to the general area, though the final approach is on foot through the woodland.* ## What to Expect St. Anthony's Well sits in a tranquil woodland clearing, surrounded by the mature trees and lush undergrowth typical of the Forest of Dean. The setting is shaded and atmospheric, with the kind of quiet that makes it easy to understand why such places were once considered sacred. The spring provides a natural flow of raw, untreated water. While it has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals, visitors should be aware that the water has not been formally tested or certified as potable. The surrounding woods make this a lovely spot for a picnic or a peaceful walk. The area is relatively secluded, offering a sense of privacy and calm — ideal for couples, families, or anyone looking for a quiet escape into nature. The terrain is uneven woodland, so sturdy footwear is recommended, especially after rain when paths can become muddy. There are no formal facilities at the well, so plan accordingly. The best time to visit is during drier months (late spring through early autumn) when the woodland paths are more accessible and the canopy is at its most beautiful.