English Character Grade Oak

    English Character Grade Oak has a range of distinctive and recognisable characteristics. Each cut tells a different story and features beautiful grain patterns and clusters of knots. Furthermore, the natural beauty of this wood make it an excellent choice for truly showcasing a living space with a rustic and natural piece of oak furniture.

     

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    English Character Grade Oak tree on white background

    How To Identify English Character Grade Oak Wood

    The term ‘character’ refers to the natural grains and knots that are particularly prominent to the eye. This design feature is a favourite for those looking to showcase the natural characteristics that the oak tree has to offer. There are several other factors that make English Character Grade oak Wood very easy to recognise and identify. 

    English Name – English or Common Elm
    Scientific Name – Quercus Robur

    Elm Tree Size – 23-35m (80-115 ft)  tall 

    Trunk Diameter – up to 1.5 metres

    Spread – 8-20 metres

    Average Weight – Approx 30,000lbs (13600 Kg)

    UK Location – Central and Southern England

    Colour

    Character grade English oak tends to exhibit warm and earthy tones. These range from a light to medium brown depending on the age of the tree. Furniture consisting of this wood will compliment any contemporary or traditional styling. Due to the varying colour, you are guaranteed a unique and one of a kind piece of handmade furniture.

    Leaves

    The leaves of an English oak tree play a vital part in the identification process. The leaves consist of a distinctive curved lobe pattern that are usually symmetrical in shape. English oak leaves measure around 10cm long and will normally consist of 4 – 5 lobes on each side. Once the tree has passed Autumn and Winter it will begin to re-grow new leaves around April or May.

    Texture & Design

    The grains of the English Character Oak are coarse to the touch with a slightly pronounced texture. Branches that fall from the tree leave behind a stunning range of knots, adding to the rustic and natural feel of the wood. English Oak is very durable and can withstand most weather conditions, and is particularly favoured for the unique knot and grain designs. Each piece of timber comprises of a one off and unique design, making it a hugely popular choice for a handmade piece of furniture.

    Location

    English Oak trees are commonly found across the British Isles. They grow mostly in deciduous woods and forests within the Southern and Central regions.

    Bark

    The bark of a mature English Oak tree is very rough and thick. The pattern consists of deep, ridged fissures that run vertically up the bark. Younger English oak trees are grey in colour and much smoother to the touch.

    Wood Types Comparison Table

    Wood Type Appearance Durability Finish Options Best For Style & Character
    English Character Grade Oak Knots, splits, grain variation; rustic charm Extremely durable Lacquer, Oil, Wax Farmhouse-style tables, rustic designs Unique, full of personality
    Prime English Oak Clean, uniform grain; minimal knots Extremely durable Lacquer, Oil, Wax Contemporary, refined furniture Sleek, premium appearance
    European Oak Light golden-brown, straighter grain Very strong and stable Lacquer, Oil, Wax Traditional or modern tables Classic, versatile, timeless
    Ash Light cream to pale brown; open grain Strong, flexible Lacquer, Oil, Wax Modern or curved designs Bright, clean, contemporary
    Elm Warm brown, dramatic interlocking grain Durable, resistant to splitting Lacquer, Oil, Wax Statement pieces Bold, organic character
    American Walnut Rich dark browns, subtle grain Dense, strong Lacquer, Oil, Wax Luxury statement furniture Elegant, refined, premium

    Frequently Asked Questions-English Character Grade Oak

    English Character Grade Oak is a type of oak timber selected for its natural features, such as knots, splits, and variations in grain. These markings give the wood a unique, rustic charm while still providing strength and durability.

    Prime Grade Oak has a cleaner, more uniform appearance with minimal knots or variation, while Character Grade Oak showcases natural imperfections like knots and colour variations. 

    Yes. The “grade” refers to the appearance of the timber, not its strength. Character Grade Oak is just as durable as Prime Grade, making it an excellent choice for long-lasting furniture.

    Character Grade Oak is ideal if you want a natural, authentic look that highlights the beauty of real wood. Each piece is unique, full of personality, and tells its own story through visible knots, grain patterns, and colour variation.

    Look for visible knots, colour variation, natural cracks, and grain movement. These natural features are deliberately retained during selection, giving the wood a more rustic and distinctive appearance compared to cleaner grades.

    No. Any knots, cracks, or imperfections in Character Grade Oak are carefully chosen and stabilised by our craftsmen. They do not weaken the table, instead, they simply add appeal and character.