The Wells Water Dragon pilgrimage is a one-day pilgrimage in search of the legendary dragon of Wells.
We follow the path taken by Bishop Jocelin in 1240 when he purportedly slayed this dragon, as claimed in a 13th Century copy of Higden’s Polychronicon.
We search for this dragon to understand better the manner and nature of these creatures, and what remains of their presence in the land and waters of Wells - as well as in ourselves.
A pilgrimage via sundry springs and wells, holy hilltops and ancient trees. We shall drink deeply and climb highly (where safe and appropriate).
What to expect
We start mid-morning in Wells to meet the heart of the city’s water heritage at the Bishop’s Palace.
An 8 mile journey on foot via ancient lanes, streams, and hidden paths between wells and springs.
Each water-source tells a song story of historic devotion, folk magic, healing lore, and modern rediscovery. Short songs,tales and meditations to integrate their flow into our path.
Water practices: Simple, respectful rites to honour place and flow
Time for silence and reflection: Several extended pauses in green and watery places for listening and feeling.
We return to Wells for Choral Evensong in the cathedral, a musical balm to cloak and cleanse us from any lingering dragons we don’t wish to take home.
Practical details
Distance: 8 miles. Terrain: country lanes, footpaths, some uneven ground and occasional mild hills.
Pace: unhurried.
What to bring: suitable walking shoes, small daypack, water bottle, packed lunch and snacks, clothes for the day’s weather.
Accessibility: Some sections feature stiles, rough paths and uneven ground.
Group size: Small.
Weather: We walk in all weather. I shall contact the group with last minute forecasts to plan accordingly.
The Wells Water Dragon — A 1-Day Pilgrimage
The Wells Water Dragon pilgrimage is a one-day pilgrimage in search of the legendary dragon of Wells.
We follow the path taken by Bishop Jocelin in 1240 when he purportedly slayed this dragon, as claimed in a 13th Century copy of Higden’s Polychronicon.
We search for this dragon to understand better the manner and nature of these creatures, and what remains of their presence in the land and waters of Wells - as well as in ourselves.
A pilgrimage via sundry springs and wells, holy hilltops and ancient trees. We shall drink deeply and climb highly (where safe and appropriate).
What to expect
We start mid-morning in Wells to meet the heart of the city’s water heritage at the Bishop’s Palace.
An 8 mile journey on foot via ancient lanes, streams, and hidden paths between wells and springs.
Each water-source tells a song story of historic devotion, folk magic, healing lore, and modern rediscovery. Short songs,tales and meditations to integrate their flow into our path.
Water practices: Simple, respectful rites to honour place and flow
Time for silence and reflection: Several extended pauses in green and watery places for listening and feeling.
We return to Wells for Choral Evensong in the cathedral, a musical balm to cloak and cleanse us from any lingering dragons we don’t wish to take home.
Practical details
Distance: 8 miles. Terrain: country lanes, footpaths, some uneven ground and occasional mild hills.
Pace: unhurried.
What to bring: suitable walking shoes, small daypack, water bottle, packed lunch and snacks, clothes for the day’s weather.
Accessibility: Some sections feature stiles, rough paths and uneven ground.
Group size: Small.
Weather: We walk in all weather. I shall contact the group with last minute forecasts to plan accordingly.
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