A Bench for One of London's Most Historic Private Clubs
Posted on June 30, 2026
Picture by: Edwardx
Some destinations carry a little more history than most, and The Hurlingham Club in Fulham is certainly one of them.
Founded in 1869, The Hurlingham Club has spent more than 150 years establishing a reputation as one of London's finest sporting and social venues. Set within 42 acres of beautifully maintained gardens alongside the River Thames, the Club is renowned for its elegant Georgian clubhouse, immaculate lawns and peaceful surroundings, providing a welcome escape from the bustle of central London.
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Pictures by Edwardx
Perhaps most fascinating of all is the Club's connection with Sir Edwin Lutyens himself.
In 1906, the celebrated British architect was commissioned to undertake significant improvements to the estate, redesigning parts of the grounds and creating architectural features that continue to define the character of the Club today.
That makes this delivery particularly fitting. Woodcraft has recently completed this beautiful Lutyens-style bench, finished in rich teak oil, ready for its new home within the grounds of one of Britain's most prestigious private members' clubs.
Our bench follows the timeless Lutyens style that has become one of the most recognisable garden bench designs ever created. With its sweeping backrest, elegant scroll arms and beautifully proportioned silhouette, the design has remained a favourite for more than a century, sitting comfortably within both historic landscapes and contemporary gardens alike.
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Crafted from premium hardwood and finished by hand in teak oil, this particular bench showcases the natural variation of the timber beautifully. The contrasting grain across the back crest, seat slats and arms gives every angle a different character, while the warm finish highlights the quality of the craftsmanship that goes into every piece leaving the Woodcraft workshop.
This isn't the first time Woodcraft has supplied seating for The Hurlingham Club either, making this another chapter in an ongoing relationship with one of London's most prestigious private institutions. There is always a great sense of satisfaction when a client chooses to return, particularly one that takes such pride in the quality and presentation of its grounds. Repeat commissions are among the strongest endorsements any craftsman can receive, and it's a privilege to know that Woodcraft's benches continue to play a small part in the everyday life of this remarkable Club.
Two of our York benches from a previous order taking pride of place in the grounds of the cricket pitch at the Hurlingham Club. Picture by Edwardx
The Hurlingham Club has welcomed royalty, sporting legends and notable figures throughout its history, and continues to host world-class sporting events including prestigious pre-Wimbledon tennis exhibitions, while remaining a place where members can simply enjoy the tranquillity of its remarkable gardens.
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Notable members include the then Prince Charles, novelist and peer Jeffrey Archer, the actor Trevor Eve and his wife Sharon Maughan as well as Lord Fowler, Lord Temple-Morris and Adam Raphael, the Carry On actress Liz Fraser and Air Vice-Marshal Sir William Cushion.
Here's a promotional video of the Hurlingham Club where a few of our benches creep into various shots.
Where exactly this bench will eventually be positioned remains to be seen, but it is easy to imagine it quietly becoming part of the landscape—offering a comfortable place to pause, admire the grounds, or simply enjoy a moment of peace in one of London's most beautiful private green spaces.
Given The Hurlingham Club's reputation, it's tempting to speculate whose footprints might eventually lead to this bench. The Club has long been associated with royalty, sporting legends and well-known public figures, making it entirely possible that a few famous behinds may grace its seat over the years. Whether it's a tennis champion taking a breather after an exhibition match, a celebrated actor escaping the crowds, or perhaps even the occasional royal enjoying a quiet stroll through the gardens, this handcrafted Lutyens bench is certainly heading to an address where distinguished company is never far away.
If you would like to know more about the size and specifications of our Lutyens Benches then click the link below.
