Thorncroft Spring, Leatherhead, Surrey, UK

## Overview Thorncroft Spring is a public drinking spring located along Thorncroft Drive in Leatherhead, Surrey, in the southeast of England. Situated at the edge of the town near the River Mole floodplain, this spring emerges in an area with a long geological history — the chalk and clay geology of the North Downs dip slope is well known for producing natural springs where permeable chalk meets less permeable clay layers. Leatherhead itself has been a settlement since at least Saxon times, and the availability of fresh spring water in the area likely played a role in the town's early development. The spring has historically been used as a source of drinking water by local residents and visitors. While no formal water quality testing data is currently available for this listing, the spring's designation as a public drinking spring suggests it has a tradition of community use. As with any natural water source, conditions can vary, and the water has not been independently verified for safety. ## Directions 1. From the centre of Leatherhead, head south along the A24 (Bridge Street) toward the River Mole. 2. After crossing the river, take the turning onto Thorncroft Drive (on your left if heading south). 3. Follow Thorncroft Drive — the spring is located along this road near the postcode area KT22 8JB. 4. GPS coordinates: **51.290083, -0.327541** — use these for precise navigation. 5. Look for the spring outlet near the roadside. Parking may be limited, so consider arriving on foot or by bicycle if local. ## What to Expect Thorncroft Spring sits in a semi-suburban setting on the southern fringe of Leatherhead, close to the green spaces and water meadows that border the River Mole. The area is generally flat and accessible, making it a straightforward visit for most people. The spring is classified as a public drinking spring, and visitors have historically collected water here. Flow may vary seasonally — springs fed by the chalk aquifer in Surrey tend to be strongest in late winter and spring after periods of sustained rainfall, and may reduce during dry summer months. The surrounding area offers pleasant walking opportunities, with the Mole Valley and nearby Thorncroft Manor grounds providing scenic countryside. Leatherhead town centre is a short walk away and offers cafés, shops, and public transport connections (Leatherhead railway station is served by Southern and South Western Railway services from London). Visitors should bring their own containers if they wish to collect water, and be aware that natural spring water quality can fluctuate — the water has been traditionally used for drinking but has not been formally tested or certified as potable.