St Cadoc’s Shute, Lostwithiel

## Overview St Cadoc's Shute is a historic public drinking spring located near the ancient stannary town of Lostwithiel in Cornwall, England. The spring takes its name from St Cadoc (also known as Cadog or Cattwg), a 5th–6th century Welsh saint who was widely venerated across Wales, Cornwall, Brittany, and Scotland. Holy wells and springs dedicated to Celtic saints are a hallmark of the Cornish landscape, and St Cadoc's Shute is part of this rich tradition of sacred water sources that have served local communities for centuries. Lostwithiel itself sits in the valley of the River Fowey and was once the capital of Cornwall and a major centre for the tin trade during the medieval period. Springs like St Cadoc's Shute would have been vital freshwater sources for the town's inhabitants long before modern water infrastructure. The word "shute" (sometimes spelled "shoot") is a regional term often used in the West Country for a channelled or directed flow of water — suggesting this spring has historically been managed or piped to provide an accessible flow for public use. The spring is situated at approximately GPS coordinates 50.40683, −4.671577, placing it in the countryside just outside Lostwithiel. Water from the spring has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals and visitors alike, though as with all natural springs, water quality can vary and independent testing is always advisable before consumption. ## Directions 1. Head to the town of Lostwithiel in south-east Cornwall, which lies along the A390 between Liskeard and St Austell. 2. From the centre of Lostwithiel, use the GPS coordinates **50.40683, −4.671577** to navigate to the spring's location, which is situated to the south-west of the town. 3. Look for a channelled water outlet — the "shute" — which is the traditional point of access for the spring water. *Note: Detailed step-by-step walking or driving directions to the exact spring site are not currently available. If you have visited St Cadoc's Shute and can provide more precise route information, your contribution would be greatly appreciated.* ## What to Expect St Cadoc's Shute is a traditional Cornish holy well spring in a rural setting near Lostwithiel. Visitors can expect a modest but characterful water source, likely featuring stonework or a channelled spout typical of Cornwall's many historic springs. The surrounding area is lush and green, characteristic of the Fowey river valley. As a public drinking spring, it has been used by the local community over many generations. The flow may vary seasonally — Cornwall's wet winters tend to keep springs running well, while drier summer months could reduce output. The terrain around the spring may be uneven and potentially muddy, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Cornwall's holy wells are often peaceful, contemplative spots, and St Cadoc's Shute is no exception. Whether you're drawn by the history, the water, or simply the beauty of the Cornish countryside, it makes for a rewarding visit — especially if combined with a walk through the charming medieval streets of Lostwithiel itself.