White Wells Multi-cache
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(regular)
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A cache at the roman baths now called White Wells. to find it you have to get the co-ords from-one other cache, the Find of the Milennium GC1KJQP.
Taking the Waters
In the 1700s, Ilkley's identity as a spa town began at White Wells, which is situated half way up Ilkely Moor. The whitewashed building you see now was originally only a two-roomed cottage. According to the local history, around 1780 a shepherd had an accident and severely damaged his leg. The wound refused to heal. But by daily immersion in the 'waters of Ilkley', the wound began to heal itself. Soon White Wells began to receive visitors seeking the therapeutic properties of the water. One of many famous recipients who took the plunge into the healing waters is Charles Darwin. He bathed here while his book Origin of the Species was being published. Other famous visitors also include Charles Dickens and Alfred Tennyson.
The modern White Wells is now a café serving hot beverages rather than cold baths (if you stop here for a 'brew' be sure to have small change handy). You will find the natural spring water at the back of the premises, still flowing and people are able to tap the source of the 'miracle cure' for themselves, so do not forget your water bottle.
Ilkley's reputation as a spa town associated with polite society and prosperity increased in the 19th century. An Ilkley merchant, travelling in Europe in1839, met a farmer in Silesia. The farmer rented a hut in his field to the merchant-- and the field just happened to sit on top of a natural brine spring. On his return to Ilkley, this merchant developed the idea of utilising the local source in a new way, and between 1840 and 1870, hydrotherapy clinics began to spring up around the area. Visitors used the recently formed railway network and would flock into the town to take the waters. Hotels and guesthouses were built to accommodate the tourists. Even the developments such as the wooded plantations in Mill Ghyll and Hebers Ghyll were landscaped for Victorian visitors.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Xngr jvyy xabj