The two ancient Yew trees that have grown around the North Door in St. Edwards Church, Stow on the Wold look more like an entry into a fairy tale than into a Church. There is little doubt that J.R Tolkein was inspired to write “The Doors of Durin” as a result of one of his many visits to the Cotswolds while living in nearby Oxford. St Edwards Church is well worth a visit too: It dates back to the Middle Ages with the North Door being constructed in the 13th Century. The 88ft high 4 stage tower was completed in 1447 and can be seen from many miles across the Cotswold Landscape.