Margaret's Pool

Margaret's Pool or Well, previously called Waterhouse Pond, is a double pond formed from two springs and appears to have been in existence since Carshalton was first populated, its outfall once flowing under the present Honeywood Lodge and contributing to Carshalton Ponds (q.v.). In 1872 John Ruskin had permission from the Lord of the Manor's Court to clean the pond, cement the bottom, construct sluices and landscape the area around it, using 7 tonnes of Cumberland stone. Wooden palings were put up round the site, flowers and shrubs planted by the paths. He dedicated it to the memory of his mother Margaret, and a stone is engraved with the following inscription: 'In obedience to the giver of life, of the brookes and fruits that feed, and the peace that ends. May this well be kept sacred for the service of mews, flocks and flowers, and be by kindness called; Margaret's Well. This pool was beautified and endowed by John Ruskin Esq MA L LD.' In 1899 Carshalton UDC took responsibility for Margaret's Pool. The springs have largely dried up although there are remains of the sluices and the Cumberland stone around the pond, and it is a grassed area with flower bed fronting Pound Street. Springs and ponds along the west and north-west sides. The site is contiguous with Festival Walk (q.v.).