St. Bernard's Well: Edinburgh's Classical Healing Spring
An exquisite 18th-century Greco-Roman temple over a healing spring, blending classical beauty with Edinburgh’s rich spa heritage.
Nestled on the banks of the Water of Leith near Dean Village, St. Bernard's Well is an elegant 18th-century monument built over a natural spring once famed for its healing waters. Designed by Scottish artist Alexander Nasmyth in 1789, the structure resembles a Greco-Roman temple with Doric columns, a domed roof topped by a gilded pineapple, and a statue of Hygieia, goddess of health. Though closed since the mid-20th century due to water contamination, its classical beauty and rich history remain a captivating glimpse into Edinburgh’s spa culture and Enlightenment era.
A brief summary to St. Bernard's Well
- 2 Clarendon Cres, Edinburgh, EH4 1PT, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during the Edinburgh Art Festival or Doors Open Days to access the usually closed interior and admire the mosaic ceiling.
- Explore the surrounding Water of Leith walkway and New Town gardens for a scenic and tranquil experience.
- Look for the gilded pineapple atop the dome, a symbol of hospitality and a unique architectural detail.
- Learn about Lord Gardenstone’s role in commissioning the well and his historical significance in Edinburgh.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 12 or 26 from Edinburgh city center to the nearby Stockbridge area. The journey typically takes 15–25 minutes. From Stockbridge, it is a 10-minute walk downhill to St. Bernard's Well. Buses run frequently but check schedules on weekends and evenings.
-
Walking
From Edinburgh city center, a scenic 40-minute walk along the Water of Leith walkway leads directly to St. Bernard's Well. The path is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most walkers and families.
-
Taxi
A taxi from central Edinburgh to St. Bernard's Well takes approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi fares typically range from £7 to £12. This option offers direct and convenient access, especially for those with limited mobility.
St. Bernard's Well location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St. Bernard's Well
Origins and Early History of the Healing Spring
St. Bernard's Well traces its origins to 1760 when a group of schoolboys from George Heriot’s School discovered a bubbling spring along the Water of Leith. Local legend connects the spring to St. Bernard of Clairvaux, a 12th-century monk who reputedly lived nearby and claimed the waters had healing properties. By the late 18th century, the spring had gained a reputation for medicinal benefits, believed to cure ailments ranging from arthritis to blindness. This belief sparked the construction of a dedicated well house to protect and celebrate the spring.Architectural Grandeur Inspired by Classical Antiquity
In 1789, the well was enclosed by a magnificent structure designed by Alexander Nasmyth, a celebrated Scottish landscape painter and architect. Nasmyth drew inspiration from the ancient Roman Temple of Vesta at Tivoli, Italy, creating a circular temple supported by Doric columns and crowned with a domed roof. Atop the dome sits a gilded pineapple, a symbol of hospitality, while inside stands a marble statue of Hygieia, the Greek and Roman goddess of health. The inscription above the entrance, "Bibendo Valeris" (Drink and you will be well), reflects the optimistic spirit of the era’s spa culture.Lord Gardenstone's Patronage and the Well’s Social Role
The well’s development was championed by Lord Gardenstone, an Edinburgh lawyer and abolitionist who purchased the spring and commissioned Nasmyth’s design. Gardenstone’s vision transformed the site into a fashionable destination for the wealthy and health-conscious during the Scottish Enlightenment. For nearly two centuries, visitors came to "take the waters," believing in the spring’s curative powers. The well was carefully managed, with a keeper appointed to regulate access and maintain the site’s prestige.Decline, Closure, and Restoration Efforts
By the mid-20th century, the well’s waters were found to contain arsenic and other harmful substances, leading to its closure in the 1940s. Over subsequent decades, the structure fell into neglect, its interior and exterior suffering from decay. A significant restoration project began in 2012, led by Edinburgh World Heritage and the city council, as part of the Twelve Monuments initiative. This work included repairing the domed roof and re-gilding the decorative pine cone atop the dome, preserving the monument’s classical elegance for future generations.Present-Day Experience and Cultural Significance
Today, St. Bernard's Well stands as a tranquil and picturesque landmark on the Water of Leith walkway, surrounded by lush woodland and the historic New Town gardens. While the interior is usually closed, it opens during special events such as the Edinburgh Art Festival and Doors Open Days, revealing exquisite mosaic ceilings and ornate water fittings. The well remains a symbol of Edinburgh’s rich cultural heritage, the Enlightenment’s embrace of science and art, and the city’s historic spa traditions.Connections to Literature and Local Lore
The well has inspired literary associations, notably with Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley’s "Frankenstein," where it is mentioned alongside Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks. The site’s blend of natural beauty, classical architecture, and healing lore continues to captivate visitors, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s past and the enduring human fascination with health and wellness.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Dean Bridge
0.3 km
A soaring 19th-century stone bridge by Thomas Telford, linking Edinburgh’s New Town with the scenic Water of Leith valley.
15 Charlotte Square
0.4 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
0.8 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
Statue of King George Ⅳ
0.9 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
Edinburgh Castle
1.0 km
Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland's heritage with stunning views, rich history, and cultural treasures.
Scottish National War Memorial
1.1 km
Explore the Scottish National War Memorial, a poignant tribute within Edinburgh Castle honoring the valor and sacrifice of Scottish soldiers across history.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
1.1 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
Royal Palace
1.1 km
Discover the Royal Palace of Edinburgh: a historical landmark showcasing Scotland's royal heritage, breathtaking architecture, and stunning gardens in the heart of the city.
St Andrew Square & George St
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant charm of St Andrew Square & George Street, where historic elegance meets modern flair in the heart of Edinburgh.
Great Hall
1.1 km
Explore The Great Hall at Edinburgh Castle, a stunning historical landmark showcasing Scotland's royal heritage and architectural beauty.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
1.1 km
Uncover the beauty and biodiversity at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a serene retreat showcasing thousands of plant species in a stunning natural setting.
Forward and Half Moon Battery
1.1 km
Discover the rich military history and breathtaking views of the Forward and Half Moon Battery at Edinburgh Castle, a must-see for every traveler.
The India Cross
1.1 km
Discover The India Cross in Edinburgh, a historical landmark that showcases the city's cultural connections with India amidst stunning surroundings.
Melville Monument
1.1 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
East Princes Street Gardens
1.2 km
Explore the beauty and tranquility of East Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh, a hidden gem offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stockbridge Market
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant Sunday market offering fresh local produce, street food, crafts, and a lively community atmosphere in charming Stockbridge.
The Georgian House
0.4 km
Step back into 18th-century Edinburgh life in this exquisitely restored Georgian townhouse filled with authentic period furnishings and stories.
Charlotte Square
0.4 km
Charlotte Square: Edinburgh’s elegant Georgian masterpiece, home to historic architecture, tranquil gardens, and Scotland’s First Minister.
Circus Lane
0.5 km
Explore the enchanting Circus Lane in Edinburgh, a hidden gem lined with colorful flowers and charming architecture, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The Oxford Bar
0.5 km
Experience the heart of Edinburgh at The Oxford Bar, a historic pub known for its literary connections and welcoming atmosphere.
Well Court
0.5 km
Discover Well Court, a beautifully restored Victorian Arts and Crafts social housing gem nestled in Edinburgh’s tranquil Dean Village.
Dean Village
0.5 km
Discover Dean Village, Edinburgh’s tranquil historic milling village with cobbled streets, scenic river views, and timeless Victorian charm.
Water of Leith Walkway
0.6 km
A serene 13-mile riverside trail weaving through Edinburgh’s history, nature, and culture from Balerno to Leith.
Heriot Row
0.6 km
Discover the timeless elegance and historic charm of Heriot Row, a prestigious Georgian street overlooking tranquil gardens in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town.
Stockbridge
0.6 km
A charming village atmosphere with Georgian elegance, artisan markets, riverside walks, and cosy cafés just minutes from Edinburgh city centre.
Water of Leith Weir
0.6 km
A serene and historic riverside retreat near Dean Village, blending nature, heritage, and tranquil waters in the heart of Edinburgh.
St. John's Church Hall
0.7 km
Historic Gothic church hall on Princes Street, blending stunning stained glass artistry with vibrant community events in Edinburgh’s New Town.
Dean Cemetery
0.7 km
A serene Victorian garden cemetery in Edinburgh, rich with historic monuments and the resting place of Scotland’s cultural icons.
The Parish Church of St Cuthbert
0.7 km
Explore the Parish Church of St Cuthbert, Edinburgh's historic spiritual haven filled with stunning architecture and rich heritage.
Ross Fountain
0.8 km
A dazzling Victorian cast-iron fountain beneath Edinburgh Castle, blending French artistry with Scottish heritage in vibrant color.
Essential places to dine
Purslane Restaurant
0.4 km
Intimate basement fine dining where ambitious modern cuisine meets Scottish sourcing and genuine hospitality.
BABA
0.5 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Forage & Chatter
0.5 km
Discover innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from local ingredients in a cozy West End setting at Forage & Chatter, Edinburgh.
Aizle
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
Contini George Street
0.6 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Badger & Co
0.6 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.6 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
The Pompadour
0.7 km
Experience refined modern Scottish cuisine with stunning Edinburgh Castle views in the elegant setting of 1925 at The Pompadour.
The Table
0.8 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
Six by Nico Edinburgh
0.9 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Six by Nico for innovative six-course tasting menus blending playful flavors and stylish ambiance in the city’s vibrant New Town.
The Palmerston
0.9 km
A stylish West End restaurant serving modern Scottish cuisine in a refined, relaxed setting just steps from Edinburgh’s city centre.
Dine Edinburgh
0.9 km
Elegant Scottish brasserie above the Traverse Theatre, blending seasonal local flavors with refined service and a chic cocktail lounge.
Amarone
1.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively ambiance in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town at Amarone, a bustling Italian restaurant with a rich menu.
The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh
1.1 km
Elegant British brasserie with Scottish flair, inventive cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere in Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
The Magnum
1.2 km
A cozy yet stylish Edinburgh restaurant blending classic Scottish flavors with creative modern cuisine and a lively bar atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CIRCUS Vintage and Curios
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and curiosities in Edinburgh’s charming Stockbridge at CIRCUS Vintage and Curios.
Those Were The Days Vintage
0.4 km
Discover timeless elegance and authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to the 1990s at Edinburgh’s curated boutique, Those Were The Days Vintage.
Scottish Design Exchange
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
ScotlandShop
0.5 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
The Treasure Trove
0.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
One World Shop
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
Edinburgh Gifts
0.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Greyfriars Art
0.8 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
Unicorn Antiques
0.8 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gem for authentic antiques, vintage furniture, and timeless treasures at Unicorn Antiques on Dundas Street.
Great Scot
1.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Portcullis Gift Shop
1.0 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition
1.2 km
Discover Scotland's rich textile heritage at the Tartan Weaving Mill, where history meets craftsmanship in a vibrant exhibition and unique shopping experience.
Carnivàle Vintage
1.2 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Herman Brown
1.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Panda & Sons
0.4 km
Edinburgh's hidden speakeasy where barbershop secrets unlock theatrical cocktails, smoky spectacles, and a fictional family's boozy tales in cosy, low-lit elegance.
The Last Word
0.4 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Copper Blossom
0.6 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
Dirty Dick's Pub
0.6 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
The Rat Pack - Piano & Cocktail Bar
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s iconic American-style piano bar blending live music and classic cocktails in a lively West End setting.
Lucky Liquor Co
0.6 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
Heads & Tales Gin Bar
0.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gin haven where craft distilling meets cozy speakeasy charm in the heart of the West End.
The Caley Bar
0.7 km
Step into The Caley Bar for a refined blend of Victorian railway heritage, bespoke cocktails, and Scotland’s finest whiskies in the heart of Edinburgh.
Never Really Here
0.7 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
The Bon Vivant
0.7 km
Candlelit bistro haven on Thistle Street, pouring award-winning cocktails and serving local Scottish fare with French finesse since 2008.
Thistle Street Bar
0.8 km
A cozy and authentic Scottish bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for superb ales, live traditional music, and warm local hospitality.
NQ64 Edinburgh
0.8 km
A neon-lit arcade bar in Edinburgh blending retro gaming classics with creative cocktails and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
Bramble Bar
0.9 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
Grand Cru
0.9 km
Edinburgh's cocktail haven on Hanover Street, blending masterful drinks, modern European bites, and seamless day-to-night vibes in the heart of New Town.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
0.9 km
Stylish and contemporary wine bar in Edinburgh’s heart, perfect for relaxed socializing and after-work drinks with attentive service.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.7 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Opal Lounge
0.8 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Club Tropicana
0.8 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
Garibaldi's
0.9 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
El Barrio Latino
0.9 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Shanghai Nightclub
1.0 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
1.0 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
The Liquid Room
1.3 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
1.4 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
1.5 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
1.5 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
1.7 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
La Belle Angele
1.7 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Classical Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
