A small vaulted building protects the Well of Tarlair, whose iron-rich water attracted people seeking health benefits in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.
Quick facts
- Date
- Later 18th to early 19th century; later roof replacement
- Architect / designer
- Unknown
- Type
- Small vaulted wellhouse over a mineral spring
- Designation
- Listed building, Category C (LB37636)
- OS grid reference
- NJ 71758 64691
Architecture, archaeology and continuing use
The rectangular rubble chamber has blocked gable entrances, a low vent and a dished stone gutter through its centre. Rough benches line one wall, while a bell-cast concrete roof replaced an earlier covering.
Its story
The spring’s chalybeate water became widely known in the region for supposed medicinal and restorative qualities. The enclosure provided a sheltered setting for collecting or taking the water.
Why it is included
Category C listing recognises a rare small structure connected with historical health practices and the social use of mineral springs.
What to notice
- The central gutter that channelled water.
- Rough stone benches inside the vaulted chamber.
- Blocked openings in the opposing gables.
Reading the surroundings
Do not enter through blocked or unsafe openings, disturb masonry or drink untreated water. Observe from permitted ground and follow local warnings.
Timeline
- Later 18th century The mineral spring gained a regional reputation for health-giving water.
- Early 19th century A vaulted shelter formalised use of the well.
- Later period A concrete roof replaced the earlier protective covering.
What we know — and what remains uncertain
The exact construction date, current water quality, structural safety and legal access were not independently verified.
Sources & further reading
- Historic Environment Scotland: Tarlair Wellhouse, LB37636 — Designation status, mapped location, date, fabric and architectural or archaeological interest.
- Trove designation: LB37636 — Parallel national record identity and archival context.
Location
OS grid reference NJ 71758 64691 · Location confidence: High: the national designation supplies an official mapped National Grid Reference; an additional source confirms record identity and archival context. · Select the marker to open its satellite view in Google Maps. On desktop, drag Pegman (the yellow figure) onto a blue road. On mobile, turn on the Street View layer and tap a blue road. Other photo markers may be user-contributed.
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