Skely Piano

A piano sits abandoned in the Essex marshes near Waltham Abbey, about twelve miles north of central London. Skely Piano is exactly what it sounds like - an upright instrument left to the elements, slowly surrendering to rust and weather. It's become something of a cult spot for photographers and the curious, the kind of thing you stumble across on a walk and think, "Hang on, why is there a piano here?"

The short answer: nobody's entirely sure. The piano has been there long enough that theories have sprouted - a discarded instrument, an art project, a memorial. It's the mystery that makes it work, really. You'll spend fifteen minutes photographing it from every angle, wondering about its backstory, and then you've got your answer.

Walkers get the most from this one. It's not a destination you'd drive across London for in itself, but if you're already exploring the Lee Valley area - heading out from Lee Valley Camping and Caravan Park or Theobalds Park, both decent enough bases - it makes for an odd little detour. The surrounding countryside is flat and sprawling, bog-like in places, proper East Anglian. Bring wellies; the ground can be sodden.

It's free and accessible whenever you fancy it. Allow perhaps thirty minutes if you're in the mood for a wander. Kids might find it quirky for five minutes, then get restless. Serious walkers and photographers will linger. Go in late afternoon when the light gets properly interesting - that's when this strange little monument to something-or-other actually earns its reputation.