St John the Baptist Well, Bisley, Surrey (51.326509, -0.629027)

## Overview St John the Baptist Well is a historic public drinking spring located in the village of Bisley, Surrey, England. Situated near the parish church of St John the Baptist, this well has long been associated with the local community and its spiritual heritage. Holy wells and parish springs are a deeply rooted tradition across the British Isles, and many — like this one — bear the name of the church or saint to which they are dedicated. Bisley itself is a quiet, picturesque village on the Surrey heathlands near Woking, and the well adds a layer of historical charm to the area. The water from St John the Baptist Well has historically been used as a drinking water source by local residents and visitors. While the spring's exact geological origins are not fully documented, wells in the Surrey heathland area typically draw from the underlying Bagshot Formation sands and gravels, which can produce naturally filtered, clear water. ## Directions 1. From Woking, head west on the A322 toward Bagshot. 2. Turn off toward Bisley village, following signs for Bisley along Guildford Road (B3012) or Church Lane. 3. Make your way to the Church of St John the Baptist in Bisley (postcode GU24 9DY). 4. The well is located in the vicinity of the parish church grounds. Look for the historic wellhead near the churchyard. 5. GPS coordinates: **51.326509, -0.629027** — use these for precise navigation if signage is limited. ## What to Expect Visitors to St John the Baptist Well will find a traditional English village setting, with the well situated close to the historic parish church. The surrounding area is quiet and rural, with well-maintained churchyard grounds and footpaths typical of a Surrey village. The spring is publicly accessible, though visitors should be respectful of the church grounds and any nearby private property. The flow and condition of the well may vary seasonally — springs in the Surrey heathlands can be more vigorous after periods of rain and may slow during dry summer months. As with any natural water source, the water has historically been used for drinking, but current water quality has not been independently verified. Visitors who wish to sample the water should exercise their own judgment. Bisley village itself is worth exploring, with pleasant walking routes through the surrounding heathland and commons. The area is also home to the National Rifle Association's Bisley Camp, adding an unusual point of interest for those spending time in the village.