Holy Well of St Anne, Reading
A tranquil medieval pilgrimage site in Reading, dedicated to St Anne, echoing centuries of healing waters and local legend.
The Holy Well of St Anne in Caversham, Reading, is an ancient medieval pilgrimage site dedicated to St Anne, the patron saint of women in labour. Once a revered source of healing mineral waters, the well was lost for centuries before being rediscovered in 1906. It features a memorial drinking fountain installed in 1908 and remains a tranquil historical landmark reflecting centuries of local religious and cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Holy Well of St Anne
- 39 Priest Hill, Reading, RG4 7PB, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the tranquil surroundings and historic stone well-head.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Caversham to explore other historical sites and riverside views.
- Bring a camera for photos of the well and its peaceful setting, especially in soft morning or late afternoon light.
- Parking is limited nearby; consider public transport or walking from Reading town center.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From Reading train station, take a 25 to 30-minute walk north across the River Thames to reach the Holy Well of St Anne. The route is mostly flat and accessible, though parking near the well is limited.
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Bus and Walk
Local buses from Reading town center to Caversham run frequently, with a 10 to 15-minute ride to Priest Hill. From the bus stop, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the well. Check local schedules for service times.
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Car
Driving to the well is possible but parking is scarce. Expect to find street parking at a distance and walk approximately 5 minutes over residential streets. No dedicated parking facilities are available.
Holy Well of St Anne location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Holy Well of St Anne
Medieval Origins and Religious Significance
The Holy Well of St Anne, located in the suburb of Caversham in Reading, dates back to medieval times when it was a focal point of Christian pilgrimage. Dedicated to St Anne, revered as the mother of the Virgin Mary and patron saint of women in childbirth, the well was part of a vibrant spiritual landscape that included a nearby chapel and the famous Reading Abbey. Pilgrims sought the well’s mineral-rich waters for their reputed healing properties, particularly for ailments related to childbirth and eye diseases. The well’s importance is documented as early as the 12th century, with its spiritual role flourishing until the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII in the 16th century, which led to the decline of Catholic worship and the loss of many religious sites in the area.Rediscovery and Preservation Efforts
After centuries of obscurity, the Holy Well was rediscovered in 1906 by local landowners. Recognizing its historical and cultural value, a memorial drinking fountain and protective cover were erected in 1908 to preserve the site. The well is situated at the corner of Priest Hill and St Anne’s Road, marked by a modest but dignified stone structure. Though the original chapel no longer exists, the well remains a tangible link to Caversham’s medieval past and the once-thriving pilgrimage tradition. Despite the well being dry today, it stands as a symbol of the enduring local reverence for sacred springs and their role in community life.Legends, Local Lore, and Historical Context
The well is steeped in legend and folklore. Local stories speak of valuables hidden near the well during the English Civil War to protect them from invading forces, and some gold coins were reportedly found nearby in the early 20th century. The well’s association with healing waters is part of a broader tradition of sacred springs in England, where pagan and Christian beliefs often intertwined. The site also reflects the complex history of religious change in England, from medieval Catholic pilgrimage to Reformation-era suppression. The well’s enduring presence amidst modern suburban surroundings invites reflection on the layers of history embedded in the landscape.Architectural Features and Setting
The well-head, dating from the early 20th century, is a modest stone structure with an inscription commemorating the site’s significance. It occupies a quiet corner at 39 Priest Hill, surrounded by residential areas yet retaining a tranquil atmosphere. The design is functional and respectful, serving as both a memorial and a reminder of the well’s historical role. Nearby, the street names and local topography subtly echo the site's past spiritual importance, preserving its legacy within the fabric of the modern community.Visitor Experience and Contemporary Relevance
Today, the Holy Well of St Anne offers visitors a peaceful spot for contemplation and connection to Reading’s rich historical tapestry. While it no longer functions as a source of healing water, the site’s heritage as a place of pilgrimage and spiritual significance endures. It provides a quiet retreat from urban life and a tangible link to medieval traditions. The well’s story enriches the understanding of local history, religious practice, and the cultural landscape of Berkshire.Preservation and Cultural Heritage
The well is recognized as a historical landmark and is protected as part of Reading’s cultural heritage. Efforts to maintain the site ensure that this rare surviving feature of medieval pilgrimage remains accessible and respected. The Holy Well of St Anne stands as a testament to the enduring power of sacred places and the ways in which history continues to shape contemporary identity and community memory.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Holy Well of St Anne
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A tranquil medieval pilgrimage site in Reading, dedicated to St Anne, echoing centuries of healing waters and local legend.
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
