'Nature's Throne' by Paula Haughney

As Keilyn and I approached this grassy area, from a tree-lined path, we thought that we had discovered an ancient stone circle. And, in a way, we had. It just wasn't as old as we thought. 

There were ten etched granite stones, some of which had rusted metal fittings sticking out of them, while others had holes cut through them. Each was of varying height and shape, making each of them unique.

At the centre a massive 'throne' commanded attention, even though it was not as tall as the surrounding monoliths, it was considerably larger than the other stones.

After a good exploration, and having taken a seat on the throne, we left the area to continue our walk.

One of the ten stones that surround Nature's Throne.

This piece of public art is entitled 'Nature's Throne' and was designed by Paula Haughney.

A well-worn plaque, affixed to one of the granite blocks, states:

"Nature's Throne

by Paula Haughney

Opened by J.W.E. Jackson, J.P.

Chairman of the Authority

1st October 1990

Commissioned by Lee Valley Regional Park Authority

through the Public Art Development Trust

Supported by the Countryside Commission

and Greater London Arts"

Locally, Nature's Throne is known as 'London's Stonehenge' or 'Hackney Henge', but pronounced 'Ackney Enge'.

Brief History

The Middlesex filter beds, which are now a nature reserve, were in existence from the 1850s, while water mills had been used in the area since 1760.

The mills were destroyed and rebuilt over the years, but the Middlesex filter beds were still in use up until 1969.

It is on the site of the Victoria Engine House, for the filter beds, that Nature's Throne now stands, built from granite blocks that once formed its foundations. 

Middlesex Filter Beds are now a haven for wildlife.

All throughout this stretch remnants of the mills and the beds can still be seen. Water channels may have have been filled in, acting as paths throughout the site, but the filter beds are thriving. They are now home to various wildlife, including: 

• Broad-bodied Chaser
• Comma Butterfly
• Common Toad
• Great Spotted Woodpecker
• Grey Heron
• Reed Warbler
• Smooth newt

The filter beds were constructed with  layers of sand, gravel and finally the concrete base of the bed. This has made the water beds flourish in the years since their closure. Now, Goat Willow, Water Plantain, Reedmace, Common Reed, Great Willowherb, Celery Leaved Buttercup, Rushes, Poplar and Willow are all in abundance.