The Fenland Black Oak Table now on display at Rochester Cathedral

See the spectacular 13m table made from 5,000 year old fossilised wood until March 2024

An incredible 13m long table created from 5,000 year-old fossilised black oak has now arrived at Rochester Cathedral

In 2012, a 13.2m section of a giant black oak tree was found deep in the peat in a field in East Anglia. It had laid undisturbed for 5,000 years. It is believed the tree would have been an immense 55 metres tall when alive. For comparison, modern day oak trees are around 20 metres.

For 10 years a team of privately funded specialist crafts people worked to create this stunning table. The Fenland Black Oak Project have preserved this magnificent tree for perpetuity for future generations to admire and use. It was finished in 2022 and commemorates the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. It has only been on display once before at Ely Cathedral.

The table is not just something to look at – it was created for the Nation. Throughout the year a programme of events will take place using the table including dinners and family activities. We’d love to hear from you if you’ve got ideas for activities or events using the table.

It will be on display until March 2024. Admission is free during the day but charges may apply for evenings and special events.

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