The Gazetteer lists all the wells I visited and have recorded. It is divided into areas as shown below. Links on each record lead to the blog post where the holy well is described.
Many wells are on private land and I have indicated access at each site in the Gazetteer as being either Private or Public. If uncertain, I have listed the site as private. Public indicates free access whereas Private indicates entry at the discretion of the landowner. Wherever possible please seek permission to visit and do not automatically assume that there is a private right of way to the site. A refusal to access is within the landowner’s rights. Make sure all gates remain as found. If cattle are encountered, treat with caution!
Holy wells remain sacred places and many are still revered. Please respect any site visited and leave it as found. Offerings and rags are traditionally left at many wells. Should you wish to do the same please use biodegradable materials.
Sadly it is inadvisable to drink from a holy well unless you are certain the water is pure. Changes in land use and the introduction of artificial fertilisers have led to contamination at some wells.
Holy wells are protected monuments under the guardianship of the state. Any major work carried out at a holy well must be done with the permission and advice of the National Monuments Service who require at least two month’s notice. Further information can be obtained at: archaeology.ie
An interactive MAP is available showing all holy wells visited. Follow the link and click on the dots to find information about individual wells.
The SMR can also be used to find basic information about individual wells, including a map on the Archaeological Survey of Ireland website.
The static map below shows all holy well sites recorded in the Archaeological Survey of of Ireland.
