Barnet Physic Well

3D Model

The Old Physic Well, well known as “Barnet Physic Well” is located at Well Approach, Barnet, was discovered on the Barnet Common during the 17th century. William Camden noted in 1586 the “WELL” was a medicinal spring which was of a great service to many physical problem and became famous as “Physic Well” later. In 1652 a journal reported that the water of the well was much approved by many contemporary physicians! Water of the well was bottled and sold. Diarist Samuel Pepys went to visit the well twice and noted in his diary, “half a mile off; and there I drunk three glasses and went and walked, and came back and drunk two more. The woman would have had me drunk three more; but I could not, my belly being full -but this wrought me very well; and so we rode home… and my waters working at least seven or eight times upon the road, which pleased me well”.
In 1808 the well was rebuilt with a subterranean arched chamber, however the building was removed in 1840. The well was rediscovered in the 1920s.