Crystal Well is the romantic name for the spring that was a good source of clean water
for Benrig House at the top of the hill.
In the mid 1800's the Elliot family built a pump to bring water to the house and you can see the gin house
where the mules or donkeys powered the pump by trudging round and round,
the pump or ram itself was in the smaller chamber next door.
The Elliots made other improvements too by building a decorated grotto
for the spring making a pituresque stopping place for a walk along the Tweed
They also built a small gas works a little further downstream
and an ice house upstream from the well which meant not only had they
running water but also gas lighting and frozen food as well.
there is limited parking at Benrig cemetary or if you fancy a longer walk
you can park at Maxton church and follow the signs for St Cuthberts Way
taking in the lovely woodland paths and flora
There are a number of wooden steps to reach the cache (62 in total)
which are quite steep but well worth the effort.