While many types of wood can darken over time, this process can be very distinct when dealing with cherry wood. You may be surprised to learn that natural cherry wood changes colors over time and that the color can vary greatly between trees and even among different boards from the same tree. Mutton Brook rises in Cherry Tree Wood, and the Capital Ring between Hendon and Highgate passes through it.Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Wood What Color is Cherry Wood? Wood anemone and other ancient plants can be found in the spring, and nuthatch and great spotted woodpecker are often seen. Now that coppicing has ceased the hornbeams have grown tall and rangy, and the wood has grown shaded. Until it became a public park, hornbeam trees were cut back every few years to provide wood for charcoal, while oaks were allowed to grow to their full height for timber. In 1914 it was purchased by Finchley Council from the Ecclesiastical Commissioners to create a public park.

It was later known as Dirthouse Wood because the night soil and horse manure from London's streets was brought to the Dirthouse, now the White Lion pub next to East Finchley Station, as fertiliser for hay meadows. It is a remnant of the large medieval wood called Finchley Wood, which was shown in Great Hornsey Park in John Rocque's map of 1754. The first mention of the park is from the 13th century as the hunting grounds of the Bishop of London.

The wood in this area likely served as a source to fire nearby Roman kilns around AD50-AD160. The history of the wood may date back to prehistoric times.

Located opposite East Finchley Underground station, it contains woodland and grassland, a playground, tennis courts, a cafe and toilets. It is a Site of Local Importance for Nature Conservation. Cherry Tree Wood is a 5.3-hectare park in East Finchley in the London Borough of Barnet.

Cherrytree woodworking