fern leaves

Crowcombe church and St Agnes' holy well

Published on January 24, 2025

The Church of The Holy Ghost

The oldest parts of the Church of the Holy Ghost date back to the 14th century, built on the site of an earlier Saxon church.

The building is constructed from Quantock red sandstone, topped with a slate roof, and is a Grade I listed structure.

Inside, carved bench ends from 1534 depict intricate designs, including mermaids, green men, and a dragon, alongside foliage and fruit motifs.

a church and a yew tree
 a stained glass window
 a wood carving depicting a dragon battling two men

St Agnes’ holy well

St Agnes is traditionally associated with love and fertility. The well sits in a farmer’s field, close to the road. A stream known as Pixie Stream runs nearby. Local folklore warns that people avoided using the well, fearing a troublesome pixie lived there.

How to get to St Agnes well

Park near Cothelstone Manor. From there, you can either follow the main road or take the footpath to the church. After visiting the church, return through the farm to the main road and walk uphill for a few metres. The well is on the left. Pass through two small gates—at the second, you’ll see a sign pointing to the right. Follow the boundary around, and you’ll find the well in a small enclosure.

grey stone building with a small door
 grey stone building with a small door by a stream. grey stone building with blue sky
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Further reading