The Clootie Well
Clootie Wells have dotted the landscape of Scotland for as long as anyone can remember.
They are natural springs surrounded by trees. The spring flows over a shallow trough allowing easy access to the water for visitors.
Pieces of cloth (cloots) are left as a physical symbol of each wish like the ancient Celtic practice of ‘votive offerings’ (leaving a gift that’s not intended to be taken back). The most common example of Humans still making votive offerings today is when they throw coins into Wishing Wells.
They are natural springs surrounded by trees. The spring flows over a shallow trough allowing easy access to the water for visitors.
Pieces of cloth (cloots) are left as a physical symbol of each wish like the ancient Celtic practice of ‘votive offerings’ (leaving a gift that’s not intended to be taken back). The most common example of Humans still making votive offerings today is when they throw coins into Wishing Wells.
Why go to a Clootie Well?
To wish for good things to happen to yourself or someone you like.
What do you do at a Clootie Well?
Write your wish on a cloot, dip the tip of the cloot in the water, hang it on a nearby branch and leave the rest to Fate …