St Bernards Well

St. Bernard’s Well stands alongside the Water of Leith in a leafy stretch between Dean Village and Stockbridge. A circular Roman-style temple of stone columns covers a statue of Hygieia, goddess of health. Designed in 1789 by Scottish painter Alexander Nasmyth, St. Bernard’s Well was built over a mineral spring discovered around 1760 which was once believed to have healing powers. Reaching it is a roughly five to ten minute walk along Water of Leith path from Stockbridge.

Spring through autumn is the ideal time to take a shot here when the full foliage of summer can liven up the scene. The area is actually quite dark so a rich blue sky with the light behind you is preferred otherwise it’s easy to lose highlights in the sky. Also a fun location for some close up shots and black and white variations. The statue in the monument is also interesting to photograph.