Near the Tamar Valley, Dupath Well proudly stands amongst the lovely pastures, still amazingly intact despite being over five hundred years old.

This little chapel-like building contains a well of water from a nearby spring.

The water from Dupath Spring was said to be able to cure illnesses, and was so holy it was even used for baptisms - but were the tales of its divine powers true?

Well well well, what have we here?

In the medieval age, there were many holy wells like this one across Cornwall, although most were not as large as Dupath Well.

It was also built much later than other wells of its kind, which is perhaps one reason it is so intact.

As you explore this little building, we’re sure you’ll be blown away by the architecture, from the eye-catching bell-turret outside to the well-lit stone interior and the floorspace dominated by a bath full of spring water.

As you step inside, look down: the spring water also actually runs through the building, thanks to an ingenious gutter carved into the ground!

A holy history

Built in the early 16th century, Dupath Well most likely belonged to St Germans, a nearby priory.

Wells like these were a great economic investment for the churches they belonged to since people from all around would visit them and make offerings.

It was even claimed that the water from Dupath Well could cure whooping cough - although given that the priory would have relied on the offerings that were left here for income, they might have exaggerated the water’s healing properties a little!

Unfortunately, later in the 16th century when the Reformation happened, the use of holy wells like this one was condemned - but that didn't stop the locals using them even centuries later.

If you want to see what all the fuss was about, visit for yourself and find out if this spring really does have a special touch.

A tale of two chieftains

Dupath Well is also home to an ancient legend, which tells of a story between two rival Saxon chieftains.

The chieftains apparently dueled at this well for a maiden’s hand in marriage. One of the chieftains died, but while the other was victorious, he was gravely wounded.

It’s disputed whether he died of his wounds, or died of impatience waiting for the maiden to take his hand!

Dupath Well is a lovely building in an even lovelier spot, and it’s got fascinating stories to tell.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Cornwall, make a day of it by also visiting some of the other historical attractions nearby, like Trethevy Quoit and the Hurler’s Stone Circles.

This beautiful area is just bursting with history to be discovered.