Houston, St Peter's Well

St Peter's Well in Houston is a medieval water structure with a stone house built in a rectangular shape, measuring approximately 5.5 feet (1.7 m) long and 4.5 feet (1.4 m) wide. The building features a steeply pitched roof and an arched entrance that give the structure its distinctive form.

The well originates from when Houston was known as Kilpeter, a name meaning the cell or church of Peter in the local language. The current stone structure likely dates to the 16th century and is now protected as a Category B listed building.

The well served as a gathering point for the community, especially on June 29th during St Peter's Day when locals came together for celebrations, horse racing, and market activities. This tradition reflected how central the site was to the social and religious life of the village.

The well sits in a field east of Greenhill Farm and remains open to visitors, though vegetation can make the approach challenging without proper footwear. Visit during dry weather when the ground around the site is more passable.

The local parish church conducts annual religious services at this protected site, keeping the well connected to active spiritual practice. These continuing ceremonies link the medieval past directly to the present religious life of the community.

Location: Renfrewshire

Location: Houston

GPS coordinates: 55.87430,-4.54674

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:41