Solid wood worktops - are they worth it

[Andy H86]

We are in the process of designing a new kitchen layout and are trying to decide if a solid wood worktop, probably oak, is worth it over a laminate alternative.

Some of the advice we have been given is that as we are going for a rounded units on the end of a run that having solid wood is preferable, but others have been trying to put us off in favour of a laminate based on the additional maintenance they require

Just looking for some real world feedback, is the maintenance required worth it for the quality of finish, do you regret getting one over a laminate, do they still look good after a few years use etc.?

[Andy H86]

Thanks for all the comments and experiences, slightly surprised by the polarizing views.

We have a few samples of both laminate and solid wood coming soon, from DIY Kitchens (where we are considering getting the kitchen from) and worktop express. So hopefully we can get a better view of how it will look.

We did consider granite or similar but didn't think it went with the style of kitchen we are going for.