Arbor Tree Oak Bench, Aston-on-Clun

New oak bench seating around the famous Arbor Tree in Aston-on-Clun provides a resting place for locals and visitors alike in the beautiful Clun Valley in South Shropshire.

The Arbor Tree, a native black poplar, has stood on the site for hundreds of years.

Each year the tree is dressed with flags, as well as crocheted birds made by local school children. The 'dressing of flags' is believed to be a survival of fertility rites practised by shepherds of the Clun Forest in Celtic times. Aston-on-Clun is the only village in Britain where Arbor Day is still celebrated.

The old Arbor Tree bench before it was replaced

The Arbor Tree has been in the care of the local parish council since 1954. They commissioned us to build a new seating area as the old one was falling apart. We also took the opportunity to involve a local blacksmith to make new flag poles.

Arbor Tree oak bench under construction in Shropshire

The oak bench under construction at our workshop in Craven Arms, Shropshire.

Arbor Tree oak bench seating, handmade in Shropshire

The new bench after it was installed and oiled. The supporting posts are made from green oak and the seating from kiln dried oak. With regular care, the seating should last 30 years or more.

"In looking for a quality local joiner / bespoke furniture maker, to help us in our community led project of replacing the Arbor Tree circular seating with a bespoke oak replacement, we could not have done better in commissioning Michael.

The seating is a popular place for walkers to rest up, and from the outset Michael's professionalism and creative flair, gave us confidence that he could meet the set objectives.

The end product is of a very high standard, and has given us a stunning, practical and comfortable seating area for all to enjoy, and we would not hesitate to recommend Michael."

Paul — Aston-on-Clun, Shropshire