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The Weald Stone: Ancient Landmark of Harrow Wealdstone

An ancient sarsen stone marking centuries of history and identity at the heart of Harrow Wealdstone.

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The Weald Stone is a historic sarsen stone located in Harrow Wealdstone, London, marking the ancient boundary between Harrow and Harrow Weald. Positioned outside what was once the Red Lion pub, now the Bombay Central restaurant, this weathered stone has stood for centuries as a local landmark and namesake for the area. It offers a tangible connection to the region’s past amidst a modern urban setting.

A brief summary to The Weald Stone

  • Harrow, Harrow, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit the Weald Stone to connect with a tangible piece of local history that predates much of the surrounding urban development.
  • Explore the nearby Bombay Central restaurant, formerly the Red Lion pub, to appreciate the evolving social fabric around the stone.
  • Take a moment to touch or sit on the stone to physically engage with this enduring landmark.
  • Consider the stone’s role as a boundary marker and its significance in naming the district of Harrow Wealdstone.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the London Overground or Thameslink train to Harrow & Wealdstone station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the stone. Trains run frequently with fares ranging from £3 to £6 depending on the zone and time.

  • Bus

    Several London bus routes, including the 183 and 258, stop near Harrow Wealdstone High Road, a 5-minute walk from the stone. Buses operate regularly with standard Transport for London fares.

  • Car

    Driving to the Weald Stone is possible but parking is limited and often controlled by local council restrictions. Nearby public car parks require payment, typically £2-£5 for a few hours. Allow 15-25 minutes travel time from central Harrow.

  • Walking

    If staying in Harrow town centre, walking to the Weald Stone takes about 20 minutes along mostly flat urban streets, suitable for most visitors with moderate mobility.

The Weald Stone location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about The Weald Stone

Origins and Historical Significance

The Weald Stone is an ancient sarsen stone that has long marked the boundary between the parishes of Harrow and Harrow Weald. Its earliest recorded mention dates back to the reign of Henry VII, when it was described in legal documents as 'le stone,' underscoring its importance as a territorial marker. Though it disappeared from public record between 1547 and 1834, it was rediscovered during construction work on the Red Lion pub in the 19th century and placed outside by the roadside, possibly serving as a mounting block for riders.

Evolution of Its Surroundings

The stone’s location has witnessed significant changes over centuries. The Red Lion pub, dating back to at least the 18th century and rebuilt in 1934, stood adjacent to the stone. This pub later became the Weald Stone Inn and eventually transformed into the Bombay Central restaurant. The area around the stone has evolved from a rural boundary marker to a bustling urban district, with local shops, a Waitrose supermarket, and modern infrastructure shaping the landscape.

Physical Characteristics and Local Lore

The Weald Stone is a large, weathered lump of rock, often described as a sarsen stone, which is a type of sandstone found in southern England. It has served various practical purposes over time, including possibly as a mounting block for horses. Today, it remains accessible to the public, allowing visitors to touch, sit on, or even tie shoelaces to it, connecting them physically to the area's deep history.

The Stone’s Role in Community Identity

Beyond its physical presence, the Weald Stone has lent its name to the district of Harrow Wealdstone, embedding itself in the local identity. It stands as a symbol of continuity amidst urban development and social change. Despite the closure of the adjacent pub and transformations in the neighborhood, the stone remains a cherished landmark, linking present-day residents and visitors to centuries of local heritage.

Contemporary Context and Preservation

Currently situated outside the Bombay Central restaurant, the stone has survived modern challenges, including nearby infrastructure issues such as a water main burst in 2023. It is protected as a historical feature, serving as a quiet reminder of the area's past in a setting that blends commercial activity with community life. The stone’s endurance highlights the importance of preserving local landmarks that anchor collective memory.

Experiencing the Weald Stone Today

Visitors to the Weald Stone can appreciate its rugged texture and the stories it embodies while observing the dynamic urban environment around it. The juxtaposition of this ancient relic with contemporary shops and eateries offers a unique perspective on London's layered history. It invites reflection on how landmarks shape and reflect the evolving character of their communities.

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