Ffynnon Fair, Holy Well of St Mary, Llanfair Caereinion

A highlight of the circular Welsh Cistercian Trail, this somewhat forlorn holy well could thrive again with the attention of devout pilgrims

Highlights

• Holy well of St Mary
  

Ffynnon Fair is another holy well dedicated to St Mary. It was extensively restored in 1990. It sits on the edge of a tree-covered riverbank round the back of the parish church. The well structure is still in first-class condition, but at the time of research, the stone seat next to it had been smashed and boulders thrown into the holy waters along with a scattering of rubbish.

The well was originally designed for bathing and famed for curing rheumatism and skin diseases. There is no chance of immersion now, even if the waters were clear and clean. The water level is low in the stone chamber, and a metal gate at the foot of steps prevented access. But you can at least reach through and gather some water to cross yourself. It has been used for baptisms in the church, which has worked hard to care for it.‍

St Mary’s Church, High Street (B4385), Llanfair Caereinion SY21 0QS

W3W: instilled.ratio.face

GPS: 52.6486N 3.3264W

Llanfair Caereinion church is on the west side of town. Enter the churchyard and walk towards the main south door. Turn left round the church tower and follow the path to some steps downhill. There are signs to point the way, less than a minute’s walk.