Not a well . . .

. . . although it is called St Helen's Well. It is actually a spring of clear water, which flows all year round. In the extra picture, taken from inside the enclosure, you can see the ripples caused by the water bubbling up from the ground.

When, thanks to freespiral, I found myself interested in these Holy Wells I started researching them in Cumbria. Then amazingly I found a book, only published last year, (which I have now got a copy of), listing and describing around 70 wells in North Cumbria. Apparently there was a project involving the finding and recording of these wells. Many were cleaned up and photographs were taken. So, whereas freespiral will have the adventure of searching for lovely romantic, hidden wells, I have nothing to do but follow the book and visit a few in the locality.
 
So this is at Great Asby, a village not far from Appleby. The impressive well is on the green by the river and was the village's main water supply until the 1940s. In 2008 the villagers renovated it - see below. It is a delightful place now. 
 
Greet Asby fwolk rowl'd up ther sleeves
Ta clear towd well fra kelter and seeves
Till yance mair clear fresh watter ran  
A drink ta quench baith beast an man.