EXCLUSIVE: Medieval Well Unearthed — Set to Become a New Attraction at HALLS of Ripon

A remarkable medieval well — believed to date back hundreds of years — is set to become a unique new feature for shoppers, visitors and residents in 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. As Robert Sterne explained, “Contractors unearthed the well while groundworks for a new courtyard were underway… 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.” 🛍️✨

🔍 Safety Inspection & First Descent in Centuries

Builder Paul Fountain carried out a full inspection on Good Friday, assisted by his son Ollie and mountaineering instructor Pete Brecken.
Paul described the experience as “mind‑blowing… the first person for hundreds of years to go down the well.”
The stonework is in excellent condition — a promising sign for its future as a public feature. 🧱💡

☕ A Talking Point for New Businesses

For Charlotte Baldwin, soon to open Sustain — an organic food, drink and coffee shop — the well will be a brilliant conversation starter and a tangible reminder of Ripon’s deep heritage, stretching back to St Wilfrid in AD 672. 🌿☕📜

🕊️ Ripon’s Historic Wells

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. ⛪💧

🛒 The Regeneration of HALLS of Ripon

HALLS — Ripon’s only department store — continues its £400,000 transformation. Phase one, completed in January 2024, created new space for independent retailers, including several relocating from Harrogate.
Director Barry Cooper welcomed the well’s discovery, calling it “a welcome bonus” alongside new smart display cabinets and the soon‑to‑reopen route between Tesco car park and the Fishergate entrance. 🛍️🌿

The deep well discovered at HALLS of Ripon will soon be a unique feature at the city’s only department store.

Builder Paul Fountain carried out the inspection of the well and became the first person in centuries to explore its depths.

Paul was 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.