Five Interesting Wooden Doors in London

As creators of bespoke wooden doors, we love the opportunity to work on more unusual projects. We’ve created over-sized wooden doors for a grand entrance or petite wooden doors for a country cottage, along with embellishing details.

We are also interested in spotting unique examples of wooden doors. If you are heading into London, there are five wooden doors that you might like to visit for inspiration.

Wooden Doors Depicting Local History

The mahogany doors of 32 Cornhill are made up of 8 panels. Each has been carved to depict a scene of local history. Take a close look at famous authors, tales of sorcery and a gathering in an 18th Century coffee house.

The elaborate entrance to the Cornhill Insurance Company was designed by Bernard Philip Arnold and carved by Walter Gilbert. Walter was a prominent figure of the Arts and Crafts movement. He is best known for creating the gates of Buckingham Palace. We love the craftsmanship in these carved wooden doors.

The Entrance to the Natural History Museum

Thousands of visitors flood through this doorway every day, but I doubt that many take note of this grand entrance. In truth, the wooden doors are large, yet relatively plain. What makes them stand out is the carved stone surround. On close inspection, it is possible to delight in a variety of creatures. These include monkeys, tigers and bears, all watching those enthusiastic visitors make their way into the South Kensington museum. If you head inside, you will discover plenty of other architectural detailing which adds to the magic of this building.

Best Known Wooden Door

Probably the best-known wooden door in London is the original back door to 10 Downing Street. In 1991, this was replaced by a reinforced steel replica. The original has been put on display in the Churchill Museum.

Unusual Decoration of a Wooden Door

We know that metal embellishment of wooden doors is not uncommon, but there is an unusual example in Moorgate. Oliver House is a disused office, but for many years the wooden doors have been completely covered in copper coins. We’re not certain of the reason but it seems to delight, amuse and confuse many passers-by.

The Oldest Wooden Door

Carbon dating has identified that the carved oak door of Chapter House in Westminster Abbey dates back to around 1015AD. This is believed to be one of the oldest surviving doors in Britain. If you have ever wondered whether wooden doors were durable and long lasting, here is the proof!

This historic door is still in-situ. It is not particularly elaborate however, you can look up and be impressed by the windows, or head to the High Altar to see a fantastic example of a geometrical mosaic that dates back to the mid-1200s.

If you are looking for bespoke wooden doors, get in touch with Hinson Custom Made on 01908 516333. We can create made-to-measure front doors, double doors and bi-folding patio doors. One of the more unusual requests was for a hidden door!