'Mind-blowing' find in Ripon city centre as medieval well is found by accident
A medieval well believed to date back hundreds of years has been discovered at a department store on Ripon.
The 42-foot-deep structure was uncovered near the Marshall Way entrance to HALLS of Ripon during regeneration works led by Ripon-based Sterne Properties.
Although safety is of prime concern, now that the well has resurfaced from the depths of history, there is no intention to bury it again.
Instead, a reinforced glass cover will be installed so visitors can safely view the well.
Robert Sterne said: “Contractors unearthed the well while groundworks for a new courtyard were under way.
"The plan is to put a secure reinforced glass cover on it and make the well a special feature that will grab attention and drive footfall.”
Barry Cooper , Director Of HALLS, which is undergoing a £400,000 transformation to create new space for independent retailers, welcomed the extraordinary find on his doorstep, calling it “a welcome bonus” to ongoing improvements in the city centre.
A full inspection of the site has been carried out by builder Paul Fountain, assisted by his son Ollie.
The pair of them were assisted on both the descent and ascent of the well by mountaineering instructor and safety expert Peter Breckon, who used climbing ropes and a pulley system.
Mr Fountain described the experience of being the first person in the well for hundreds of years as “mind-blowing”.
The good news for the well’s new role as a tourist attraction is that the stonework is in excellent condition, added Mr Fountain.
The discovery adds to Ripon’s rich tapestry of medieval and holy wells, including the well-known St Wilfrid’s Well on Skellbank, a testament to the city’s long religious and cultural significance.
For Charlotte Baldwin, soon to open Sustain, an organic food, drink and coffee shop, the well will be a brilliant talking point for customers and visitors, as well a tangible reminder of Ripon’s deep heritage, stretching back to St Wilfrid in AD 672.
Located on Fishergate, HALLS of Ripon describes itself as “the home of independent shopping in Ripon with a unique blend of 20 independent businesses”.