From a woodworking class to world class woodworking. The story of how a hobby turned into delivering craftsmanship for over 35 years.

Posted on April 30, 2025

Founded in 1990 by Michael Davidson, Woodcraft UK has evolved from a small venture into a prominent manufacturer of high-quality wooden furniture. While many might assume that Michael's background aligns with furniture design or manufacturing, the origins of Woodcraft UK are rooted in an entirely different field: computer analysis. This article explores the fascinating journey of Woodcraft UK, highlighting its growth, and commitment to craftsmanship.

A Transformative Journey

In the late 1980s, Michael Davidson was engaged in a demanding contract that required him to travel frequently. To unwind from his professional obligations, he enrolled in a woodwork course, seeking a creative outlet. Little did he know that this decision would lead to a profound career shift.

Michael reflects on his experience:

"Working with wood is fantastic. It's so creative and satisfying, and you have total control over the outcome. That doesn't mean that it's easy though, far from it. The craft requires a huge amount of patience, dedication, precision, and respect, not to mention a keen eye, strong memory, and the ability to learn from your mistakes.”

Encouraged by his tutor and driven by a newfound passion, Michael made the pivotal decision to establish Woodcraft UK, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in craftsmanship.

Evolution of Woodcraft UK

Initially, Woodcraft UK focused on producing rocking horses, doll's houses, and various gifts and trinkets. However, as demand for outdoor furniture surged, the company pivoted its business model to specialise in wooden outdoor furniture. This strategic shift not only broadened their product range but also solidified their reputation as a manufacturer of traditionally constructed furniture.

Mike Davidson, founder and proprietor of Woodcraft UK, receives the Bronze Award for Stand Layout at the Institute of Groundsmanship (SALTEX) International Exhibition at Windsor 2010.

Key Milestones in Growth

Benchmaker

Woodcraft's initial focus on crafting small gifts quickly expanded to include a range of Benches with over 20 different styles.

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Expansion of Product Range

Mike didn't stop at bench making and his product range encompassed a diverse range of outdoor furniture, including outdoor tables, pergolas, cabins, gazebos, and parish noticeboards. This expansion reflected a growing demand for high-quality, handcrafted outdoor furnishings.

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Expansion in craftsmen

Of course Mike's journey wasn't a solitary affair. As the orders grew so did the number of craftsmen that came aboard all bringing their unique set of credentials and style to each piece of outdoor furniture they made

The creation of bespoke made curved benches and designer benches

In recent years, Woodcraft has undergone a further transformation, embracing bespoke design and luxury craftsmanship. The company specialises in creating large curved benches, meticulously crafted to serve as the centrepiece for memorial gardens and discerning private customers seeking unique, made-to-measure pieces.

This expansion reflected a growing demand for high-quality, handcrafted outdoor furnishings. In recent years, Woodcraft has undergone a further transformation, embracing bespoke design and luxury craftsmanship. The company specialises in creating large curved benches, meticulously crafted to serve as the centrepiece for memorial gardens and discerning private customers seeking unique, made-to-measure pieces.

Global Reach

Following the successful establishment of a presence across the United Kingdom, Mike and his team strategically expanded their operations into mainland Europe, catering to various destinations within the European Union such as Berlin, The Algarve and Amsterdam. This growth reflected the company's commitment to delivering high-quality, bespoke furniture solutions.

Woodcraft UK shipping wooden garden furniture worldwide

More recently, as Woodcraft shifted its focus towards the production of innovative, bespoke curved luxury benches, Woodcraft’s reach significantly expanded further into global markets. The company now ships its bespoke curved benches to diverse locations, including Osaka, Japan, and Dallas, USA. This international reach underscores Woodcraft's dedication to craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, positioning the brand as a leader in the luxury outdoor furniture sector.

Mike, shipping the Black York bench, a rare and mysterious modification to the standard York design that is only made for a trusted handful of clients. Mike: "We don't just make this bench for anyone you know!

Over the years, Woodcraft UK has cultivated a diverse portfolio of clients, including Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Malmaison, Royal Hospital Chelsea, National Trust, The Royal Parks, New Covent Garden Market, National Railway Museum and countless local councils, golf courses, churchyards and public gardens throughout the UK.

Additionally, their robust wooden bollards are strategically placed from Hull to Liverpool and from the Scottish Highlands to Land's End.

Mike at the helm of one of Woodcraft's original circular bed saws by JJ Smith

The Craftsmanship Behind Woodcraft UK

Today, Woodcraft UK boasts a dedicated team of professional craftsmen who share Michael's passion for creating superior wooden furniture infused with character and style. Michael emphasises:

"Some of our benches are simple, others are more ornate, but all of them boast over a quarter of a century of history that makes them the very best on the market.”

This dedication to craftsmanship ensures that every piece produced is not only functional but also a work of art that tells a story.

The journey of Woodcraft UK is a testament to the power of passion and dedication. From its humble beginnings in a woodworking class as a hobby to becoming a leader in outdoor furniture, the company exemplifies how a love for craftsmanship can lead to remarkable success. As Woodcraft UK continues to grow, it remains committed to quality, sustainability, and the art of woodworking, ensuring that each creation is a lasting legacy for future generations.

Whether you are looking for a simple bench or an ornate table, Woodcraft UK offers a range of products that not only meet functional needs but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of any outdoor space.