I have got some new workbenches in my shed, including one that has a sink in it. I'm wondering what finish I should use. I want something that will protect the hardwood (beech), look nice, and resist water and oil stains, as well as resisting accidental gluing, varnish, paint, chipping, etc. Over time I'm sure the workbench part of it will get damaged, and refinishing may be on the cards. However, with my last workbench, I told myself that I could always change-out the melamine top when it got dirty, but it's about 20 years old now, and I still haven't done it.

For the best protection and nice looks, I was planning to use a satin varnish, probably Feast Watson, as I like their products. I was going to spray on a couple of coats, and then wax finish it.

I have read some suggestions to use Danish Oil, but I've not used this before. I've used FW Scandinavian Oil, and while this looks and feels awesome, pooled water will mark the finish, and oils, pens, etc, seem to also mark the surface, so it's really not up to the brief. At the other end of the scale, I could use a floor varnish, or even a 2-pack.

Any thoughts or suggestions?