On Tue, 30 Oct 2007 19:55:15 GMT, "Keith Dunbar"
wrote:

I understand they should
be treated with linseed oil, but am unsure as to whether that should be
boiled or just regular linseed oil - or whatever?

Use a commercially blended finishing oil, like Liberon's. Easier to
apply, more predictable drying (especially in this weather!) and it
won't stink of fish.

If you do use linseed, use boiled. Raw linseed won't fully cure (ever!)
and will always remain slightly sticky. Neither will "soak in" worth
mentioning on exposed wood of this age.

If the timber is that old, especially if it's oak, then a bit of oil
isn't going to darken it appreciably.