St. Patricks Well

Although not recorded on the 1st ed. (1838) of the OS 6-inch map the well is mentioned by name in the OSL (Herity 2002, 14), and in the 1870's, according to Shearman (1874-5, 306), was 'still frequented by pilgrims who hang up votive offerings of rags on an ancient thorn which overhangs the well'. Jackson (1979-80, 159) records that it was associated with cures for sore eyes and a place of pilgrimage on St Patrick's Day. The well lies in a small thicket on the S-roadside at the N-foot of St Patrick's Hill (OD 308 feet). The area is flooded, possibly by the spring well itself, but a square area (dims. L 2m; Wth 2m) defined by ivy-covered drystone walls, open to the S, is visible under the water's surface and a large flag/lintel along the S may be part of a roof structure. The possible holy tree mentioned above by Shearman is designated KD010-024001-. Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy Date of upload: 10 June 2011

St. Patrick’s Well at Ardrass Upper is associated with St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and was historically visited by pilgrims for its supposed healing properties. The well's continued use in the 1870s reflects a longstanding tradition of holy well veneration linked to Christian and pre-Christian folklore.