Wellhead at John Knox House, Edinburgh
Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
The Wellhead at John Knox House is part of the historic John Knox House complex on Edinburgh's Royal Mile, one of the city's oldest surviving medieval structures dating back to 1470. This site reflects the rich history of the Scottish Reformation and the lives of notable figures like John Knox and James Mosman, a goldsmith to Mary, Queen of Scots. The wellhead itself is a distinctive architectural feature linked to the house’s medieval past, nestled in the vibrant heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
A brief summary to Wellhead at John Knox House
- Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the John Knox House museum to explore exhibitions on the Scottish Reformation and the Mosman family’s craftsmanship.
- Look for the carved initials of James Mosman and Mariota Arres on the house’s façade, a testament to its 16th-century renovations.
- Take time to appreciate the wellhead as a rare surviving feature of medieval urban life in Edinburgh.
- Consider joining a storytelling tour at the nearby Scottish Storytelling Centre to enrich your understanding of the house’s history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 35 or 36 from Edinburgh city centre to the Royal Mile; travel time is approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently, but check schedules for evening service. Tickets cost around £1.80–£2.00 GBP.
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Tram and Walk
From Edinburgh Airport, take the tram to Princes Street (about 30 minutes). From there, it’s a 10-minute walk along Princes Street and the Royal Mile to John Knox House. Walking involves cobbled streets and slight inclines.
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Taxi
A taxi from Edinburgh city centre to John Knox House takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fare ranges from £5 to £10 GBP. Taxis provide door-to-door convenience, especially useful for those with mobility concerns.
Wellhead at John Knox House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Wellhead at John Knox House
A Medieval Legacy on the Royal Mile
The Wellhead at John Knox House is situated within one of Edinburgh’s oldest surviving buildings, dating back to 1470. The house, located on the Royal Mile in the Netherbow area, is a rare example of medieval architecture that has endured centuries of change in the city. The wellhead itself is an integral part of this historic fabric, symbolizing the domestic and commercial life of the period. The house’s timber and stone construction, along with decorative carvings and inscriptions, reflect the craftsmanship of the late 15th and 16th centuries.Connections to the Scottish Reformation
John Knox House is famously linked to the Protestant reformer John Knox, who played a pivotal role in Scotland’s religious transformation during the mid-16th century. Although historical evidence suggests Knox may have only lived in the house briefly, if at all, his association with the building has been crucial in preserving it. The house stands as a monument to the turbulent times of the Scottish Reformation, with exhibitions inside detailing Knox’s influence and the wider religious upheaval that shaped Scotland’s history.The Mosman Family and Royal Patronage
The house was once the residence of James Mosman, a goldsmith to Mary, Queen of Scots, and his wife Mariota Arres. The Mosman family undertook significant renovations in the 1550s, adding Renaissance-style details visible today, including their initials on the façade. James Mosman’s loyalty to the queen during the Lang Siege and his tragic execution for counterfeiting highlight the house’s connection to key historical events. The wellhead and other features of the house evoke this rich narrative of loyalty, craftsmanship, and political intrigue.Architectural Features and Preservation
The wellhead itself is a notable architectural element, reflecting the medieval practice of integrating water sources within urban homes. The house’s timber gallery, painted ceilings, and stone carvings were uncovered and restored in the 19th century, saving the building from demolition. Today, the wellhead and the house stand as a testament to Edinburgh’s commitment to preserving its heritage, offering visitors a tangible link to the city’s past.Visitor Experience and Interpretation
Visitors to the Wellhead at John Knox House can explore the adjoining museum, which presents detailed exhibitions on the house’s history, its inhabitants, and the broader context of the Scottish Reformation. The house’s location on the Royal Mile places it amid Edinburgh’s vibrant historic district, making it a focal point for those interested in medieval architecture, religious history, and Scotland’s royal past. The wellhead adds a unique dimension to this experience, symbolizing the daily life and survival of the city’s early residents.Legacy and Cultural Significance
The Wellhead at John Knox House is more than a historical artifact; it is a symbol of Edinburgh’s layered history and the enduring legacy of the Reformation. The house’s survival through centuries of urban development owes much to its association with John Knox, which has inspired preservation efforts since the 19th century. Today, the wellhead and house continue to educate and inspire, connecting visitors to Scotland’s rich cultural heritage and the dramatic stories that unfolded within its walls.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wellhead at John Knox House
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Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
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Mercat Cross
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Warriston's Close Stairs
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Unmissable attractions to see
Scottish Storytelling Centre
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The World's End
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Little Fish Tours
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The Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches
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St. Patrick
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Tron Kirk Market
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Wee Ecosse - visites guidées en français à Edimbourg
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St Cecilia’s Hall: Concert Room & Music Museum, The University of Edinburgh
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Royal Mile
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Essential places to dine
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The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
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La Garrigue
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Wedgwood The Restaurant
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The Piper's Rest
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La Locanda Edinburgh
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Ecco Vino
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Tolbooth Tavern
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Angels with Bagpipes
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Howies Restaurant
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The Devil's Advocate
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Number One
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Twenty Princes Street
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Duck & Waffle
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The Cellar Door
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Real Scot Shop
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The Wee Gift Shop
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scottish experience cashmere place
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Ragamuffin
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The Scotland Shop
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Crest Of Edinburgh
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Pie In The Sky Ltd
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Fringe Shop
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The Enchanted Galaxy
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Banshee Labyrinth
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
