Nature’s Throne
Sightseeing attraction | London | England | United Kingdom
Hackney Henge art installation visit
"Nature’s Throne" is a fascinating and unusual attraction in London, England, located in the Middlesex Filter Beds Nature Reserve in the Hackney district. This sculpture, also known as "Hackney Henge," is a modern artwork that uniquely combines history, nature, and creativity. It is an installation made of massive granite blocks, created by artist Paula Haughney in 1990. It is situated in the midst of a nature reserve that was once an industrial waterworks, providing a peaceful contrast to the bustling metropolis.
Historical attraction in London
The central structure of "Nature’s Throne" consists of an imposing, double-sided throne fashioned from five large granite stones. This throne is the centerpiece of the installation, inviting visitors to sit and observe the surroundings. The seats are adorned with intricate reliefs depicting natural motifs: the north-facing side celebrates the element of water, central to the site's history, while the south-facing side honors the sun and earth. These carvings depict the flora and fauna of the region, including fish and plants reflecting the ecological heritage of the River Lea that flows through the area.
Nature and art in Hackney
Surrounding the throne are ten additional granite blocks arranged in a circle, giving the installation its alternative name of "Hackney Henge" – a playful nod to Stonehenge, although not ancient or mystically religious. These outer stones are left raw and bear traces of their industrial past: drill holes, rust stains, and metal remnants that recall their original function. In fact, all 15 granite blocks come from the foundations of the "Victoria," a huge Cornish Beam Engine installed here in 1859 to pump water for the East London Waterworks Company. This machine, the largest of its kind at the time for urban water supply, was built in Cornwall and transported to London, with its granite base later repurposed for this artwork.
Middlesex Filter Beds nature reserve
The site's history is as captivating as the sculpture itself. The Middlesex Filter Beds were constructed in the mid-19th century to filter clean drinking water for London's growing population. After their decommissioning in 1969, the site became wild and a haven for nature. In the 1980s, the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority took over the area and transformed it into a nature reserve. "Nature’s Throne" emerged as part of this transformation process, blending harmoniously with the surroundings now characterized by wetlands, ancient walls, and dense greenery. The nature reserve is a sanctuary for wildlife – birds such as herons, woodpeckers, and kingfishers call it home, as do amphibians and over 200 plant species, including marsh marigolds and orchids.
Exploring London industrial history
The sculpture is not just an artwork but also a place of interaction. Children often climb around the throne, while adults enjoy the tranquility to appreciate nature. Over time, "Nature’s Throne" has evolved: lichens grow on the stones, and occasionally visitors leave their mark, whether through graffiti or burnt spots on the throne reminiscent of nocturnal fires. These changes give the installation a vibrant, organic quality that blends with the surrounding nature.
The significance of "Nature’s Throne" lies in its connection of industrial history and ecological rebirth. The reused stones speak of London's industrial past, while the carvings and location in the nature reserve celebrate the return of nature. For visitors, the attraction offers an unexpected discovery off the beaten path. Situated along the Capital Ring, a popular walking route, it remains a peaceful place often overlooked. The combination of monumental size and subtle craftsmanship makes it a space for contemplation and joy.
