St Margaret's Well

St Margaret's Well is a hexagonal well house with ribbed vaulting and small decorative features where the vault ribs meet. The structure contains a central stone pillar and a circular stone drinking bowl.

The well house originated in the fifteenth century at a different location called Restalrig. It was relocated to its current spot in Holyrood Park during the 1860s when railway expansion made the original site unsuitable.

The well was a pilgrimage destination in medieval times, where visitors drank water they believed had healing powers. People sought it out hoping for recovery and spiritual renewal.

The structure stands beside Queen's Drive and is protected with metal railings. Visitors can easily reach it on foot from the park and get a clear view of the medieval stonework and craftsmanship.

The stonemasons left their marks on the central pier and vault ribs. These marks offer a glimpse into how medieval craftspeople signed their work.

Location: City of Edinburgh

GPS coordinates: 55.95090,-3.16844

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:06