 St. Winifred's Well as it looks now
A place of mystery and wonder
Recommendation added: 22/10/2006 11:32
By: velvet202 (YSUK rating +191)velvet202 has been thanked 9 times for this contribution
"St. Winifred's Well at Holywell in Flintshire is probably the most famous holy well in Britain and has been a pilgrimage since the seventh century. According to legend, Winifred, the niece of the seventh-century holy man St. Beuno, was decapitated by a thwarted suitor. Beuno's prayers restored her to life and she went on to become Abbess of Gwytherin. The spring which arose on the spot where her head fell belonged to St. Werburgh's Abbey, Chester, from 1093 to 1203. The Welsh regained control over the region soon after, and the spot was transformed into a chapel with vaulted chambers below. The water was conducted to a pool outside in which pilgrims could bathe. It's the beauty of the untouched nature as well as the mystery of the Well that attracts more and more pilgrims each year. King Richard I. was one of many famous visitors, and so was King Henry V.
Ever since medieval times, St. Winifred's Well has been the topic of many miraculous stories. Some claim to have been cured instantly upon setting eyes on the sacred ground, others report an improvement in health, mind, family and money matters within months, if not weeks. No one knows, or can actually prove, if or that the Well can fulfill wishes or do miraculous things, but one thing is for sure: this small and famous part of Wales will spin its magic on every visitor.
The beautiful grayish white walls sit rigidly against a deep blue sky. Windows are rare and dark, and most of them sit high over tall, wooden gates with carved ornaments. It is a strange place to spend the day as each pace on the hard ground cuts through the silence like a knife and one feels the need to bow his head in respect – and, well, there's something else. Something old that has been there for a long time and will probably be there long after we're gone. Something that has been described by many visitors before and even earned St. Winifred's Well immortality in literary history as the place in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.
At some times, the place may be packed, at others completely empty, which is often the case with places that do not charge an entry fee. Visiting during the week may very well mean that you will probably the only pilgrims around.
The local town Holywell in Greenfield Valley is the perfect place to stay during the visit. From there you can also explore Basingwerk Abbey and many other less known ruins. Although there are many B&Bs, the Springfield Hotel is probably the best choice as it offers surprisingly low prices for a very good service and excellent food. The rooms have en-suite bathrooms and large balconies, which offer a breathtaking view across the Valley.
From Chester, you can reach Holywell on the A55 in less than 40 minutes."
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