Ffynnon Sara

Cadw's description

Location

1 km north west of Derwen church, in as small roadside enclosure with perimeter wall and gate.

History

Ffynnon Sara or Sarah (also named Fynnon Pyllau Perl by Edward Lhuyd in 1698) is close to the ancient road through North Wales from Bala to Holywell. The water of the well was reputed to be effective in the cure of cancer, stone and rheumatism. Pins were offered. The origin of the name is obscure, Sara possibly having been the name of a custodian living in the adjacent cottage, where crutches were often left. The cottage, which stood at the roadside, was burned down in about 1860. In c1900 Thomas described the well as 'a large square bath of rude masonry, the bottom of which is reached by steps.'

The well was restored by the rector of Derwen, the Rev. J P Cooke, in 1972-3.

Exterior

A shallow stone-lined bath about 4.3 by 2.4 metres, sunk into the ground except at one end where the water overflows over a low sill to the adjacent stream. To one side at the opposite end is a short flight of stone steps from a small kerb-surrounded paved area. The water trickles in at a concealed point, and would be about 0.3 m deep if full to the overflow level. Although restored, the well matches an earlier description.

Reason for designation

A restored well on an ancient pilgrimage route, long credited with healing properties.