St Columba’s Holy Well, Ruthvoes

## Overview St Columba's Holy Well is a historic sacred spring located near the village of Ruthvoes in mid-Cornwall, England. The well is dedicated to St Columba (also known as Colum Cille), the renowned 6th-century Irish monk and missionary who played a pivotal role in spreading Christianity across Scotland and beyond. Holy wells dedicated to Celtic saints are a hallmark of Cornwall's rich spiritual landscape, and St Columba's Well is one of many such sites that have served as places of devotion, healing, and community gathering for centuries. Cornwall's holy wells have deep roots in both pre-Christian and Christian traditions. Many were originally venerated as sacred water sources in the Celtic period before being adopted and rededicated by early Christian missionaries. St Columba's Holy Well at Ruthvoes likely follows this pattern, with its association to the saint suggesting an early medieval origin for its Christian use. The well sits within the parish of St Columb Minor, a region whose very name reflects the enduring legacy of Columban devotion in this part of Cornwall. The spring is classified as a public drinking spring, and visitors have historically used it as a source of fresh water. As with all natural water sources, conditions can vary, and the water has not been independently tested or certified for modern drinking water standards. ## Directions 1. The well is located near the small settlement of Ruthvoes in Cornwall, between the towns of St Columb Major and Indian Queens. 2. From the A39 or A3058, head toward Ruthvoes. The GPS coordinates **50.40837, -4.921366** will guide you to the approximate location of the well. 3. Holy wells in Cornwall are often tucked away along lanes, field edges, or footpaths — look for local signage or ask residents for precise guidance once you are in the Ruthvoes area. *Note: These directions are based on the GPS coordinates provided and general geographic knowledge of the area. They have not been independently verified against a specific trail guide or official source.* ## What to Expect St Columba's Holy Well is a quiet, contemplative site typical of Cornwall's many sacred springs. Visitors can expect a modest stone wellhead or spring enclosure set in a rural landscape of hedgerows, fields, and country lanes. Many Cornish holy wells feature simple stone structures — sometimes with a niche for offerings or a small basin where the water collects. The surrounding countryside near Ruthvoes is gently rolling farmland, and the area is generally peaceful and uncrowded. Access is likely along a footpath or minor lane, so sturdy footwear is recommended, especially in wet weather when paths can become muddy. As a site of historical and spiritual significance, visitors are encouraged to treat the well and its surroundings with respect. Some holy wells in Cornwall still attract modern-day pilgrims who leave small offerings such as coins or cloth "clooties" tied to nearby branches — a tradition with ancient Celtic origins. The well can be visited year-round, though spring and summer offer the most pleasant conditions for exploring Cornwall's rural holy well sites.