2026 marks a significant landmark in the history of Ransfords — 150 years of outstanding service, craftsmanship and commitment to our customers. So what is it about the “Ransfords treatment” that still matters today, and why has it stood the test of time?
Still independently owned and run to this day, Ransfords has been producing exceptional British timber from our sawmill in Bishop’s Castle, Shropshire since 1876. What began as a modest timber and coal yard has grown into one of the UK’s most respected and capable timber businesses, built on heritage craftsmanship, continuous investment, and a service culture that treats customers as well as we treat the wood.
A heritage that still guides us
Since Stanley Gwilt opened the original yard in the late Victorian era, Ransfords has evolved with the times without ever losing sight of what matters most: quality timber, clear communication and personal service. From early sawing lines to today’s technology, throughout our history we’ve remained rooted in the belief that great timber deserves great service, and that excellence is not an accident but a choice.
Over the decades, family ownership and long-standing leadership have helped keep that promise alive. The Evans family has led the business since 1978, investing significantly in machinery, treatments and processes that ensure the timber we produce today meets the demanding needs of modern construction, landscaping, infrastructure and acoustic applications.
British wood, world-class results
What sets Ransfords apart is our commitment to British-grown timber. We source wood from sustainably managed forests in the UK, favouring species such as Douglas Fir, Larch and Spruce that are well suited to a range of applications — from fencing and cladding to highways timber and acoustic barriers. This focus on local materials not only supports UK forestry and rural jobs but also reduces transport impact and ensures traceability you can trust.
Today, our products are manufactured using advanced sawmilling technology. From precision laser scanning and optimising saw lines to state-of-the-art treatment plants, our processes ensure every board, post and panel leaves the mill with a consistency of quality and performance you can really depend on.
A service promise based on substance
A timber business is only as good as the people behind it. That’s why one of Ransfords’ greatest strengths isn’t just the quality of the wood we mill or the technology we use — it’s the people who talk to our customers every day.
When you call Ransfords, you reach someone who understands your business and can advise on products, compliance and delivery. No call centres or long wait times.
Of course, our commitment to reliability isn’t a new idea. It’s been part of the Ransfords DNA for 150 years. Whether you’re planning a major infrastructure project or simply stocking up for the season, you can order with confidence knowing your timber will arrive in full and on time, backed by a century and a half of expertise.
Always looking ahead
As we celebrate 150 years of Ransfords, we’re not just reflecting on the past — we’re building towards the future. With continued investment in technology, product innovation and sustainability initiatives, we continue to be focused on producing the highest quality treated timber, delivered with a level of care and personal service that you only get from our family-run sawmill.
From high-quality fencing and landscaping timber products to highways timber and acoustic fencing specifications, Ransfords stands well-placed and ready to meet future timber demand.
Call our team on 01588 638 331 to talk about your next project — and experience the Ransfords treatment.