Best finish for an outdoor woodworking bench

Question

I'm building a workbench with a beech countertop.
Originally I was going to finish the countertop with varnish on the bottom and linseed oil on top.
However, I noticed that this workbench is too big to be stored inside, so I will be storing it outside. I'll put a cover over it, but it's still somewhat going to be exposed to the elements.
I know varnish has a much better protection outside, but it's not ideal for a workbench.
What finish would you use?
EDIT: Answering a couple of questions from the comments:

The rest of the workbench is made from plywood. I've already covered it with three layers of clear varnish
The bottom of the countertop I'll do with the same clear varnish
I'm planning on making some foldable extensions to the bench such that I can keep the cover from touching the top. Would that prevent mould?

CDymond7 · Answer

For the bottom, you may want to look into a spar varnish or even a spar urethane if that is an option (some people just don't like urethane for whatever reason).  These types of finishes were originally used in the marine finishing world.  Really anything designed for marine use would work, but epoxies and the like can get pricey.
I like Minwax's Helmsman series for exterior applications since it's also available in a spray can.  Just remember to use several thin layers versus trying to get it all on at once.  It can get gummy looking of you don't.
For the top, I'm guessing that you're trying to stay away from a finish that will harden.  That's a little tougher. Here's an article that I look back to often, https://www.woodcraft.com/blog_entries/clear-outdoor-finishes#

Best finish for an outdoor woodworking bench

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