Well Dressing is a custom almost unique to Derbyshire, and is to be found particularly in the limestone uplands of the Peak District. Well Dressing was an ancient offering of thanks for the supply and provision of water in the predominantly dry limestone uplands. Modern Well Dressings are pictorial, often depicting biblical scenes, but this seems to be an innovation dating from the first quarter of the nineteenth century, when well dressing underwent something of a revival. Previously, the wells had been bedecked with garlands and ribbons, in a manner recalling the "cloutie" wells sometimes still seen in the Highlands of Scotland or remote areas of Southern Ireland.

In the 1800’s Barlborough was classified as a town. Barlborough’s Town’s Well is situated next to Town’s Well Green (opposite St James’ Church). It’s source is a spring which rises in Barlborough Park. The Well is dressed each year by a group of talented villagers and then is blessed by the Rector of St James’ Church.