The dojo was started in 1987 by Trevor Chapman, now 5th Dan.

The dojo was officially named in 1988 by Nakata sensei (7th Dan Kyoshi) whilst he was visiting England as an instructor with the All Japan Kendo federation (AJKF).

Kashi No Ki Ken Yu Kai roughly translates as "spirit of the evergreen oak, friends of the association", a reflection of the dojo's location in Sherwood Forest.

In 1990 and 1999, the dojo was visited by Hiroshi Ozawa (7th Dan Kyoshi), author of "Kendo - The Definitive Guide". Trevor continues to make frequent trips to Japan to study and practice with Hiroshi Ozawa.

The dojo hosts an number of events each year, including referees seminars, kata seminars, and a kangeiko at the start of each new year.