Stow on the Wold St Edwards Church door which inspired J.R.R. Tolkien the door of Durin

Stow-on-the-Wold is a picturesque market town situated in the heart of the Cotswolds in Gloucestershire, England. The town is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history, with one particular landmark that stands out – the door of St Edwards Church.

St Edwards Church is a beautiful medieval church that was built during the 11th century. The church is located in the town square, and its door has become a source of fascination for many visitors. The door is made of oak, and it is decorated with intricate carvings that depict scenes from the Bible.

One of the most interesting things about the door is that it is believed to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien, the author of The Lord of the Rings, to create the famous Doors of Durin. Tolkien was known to have visited Stow-on-the-Wold during his travels in the Cotswolds, and it is thought that he was struck by the beauty and intricate detail of the door.

The Doors of Durin are a pair of fictional doors that feature prominently in The Lord of the Rings. The doors are located at the entrance to the Mines of Moria, and they can only be opened by speaking a secret Elvish password. The doors are decorated with similar intricate carvings to those found on the door of St Edwards Church, and many believe that Tolkien drew inspiration from the real-life door.

While there is no concrete evidence to support this theory, it is certainly possible that Tolkien was influenced by the door of St Edwards Church. The Cotswolds were a favorite destination for the author, and he often drew inspiration from the local landscape and architecture when creating his fictional worlds.

The history of the door of St Edwards Church is just as fascinating as its potential connection to Tolkien. The door is thought to be one of the oldest surviving church doors in England, and it has witnessed centuries of history and change.

During the English Civil War, Stow-on-the-Wold was the site of a major battle between the Royalists and the Parliamentarians. The church and its door were caught in the crossfire, and it is said that the bullet holes in the door are a reminder of the violence that took place.

Over the years, the door has been repaired and restored numerous times, but it still retains much of its original beauty and charm. The intricate carvings are a testament to the skill and artistry of the craftsmen who created it, and the door is a cherished symbol of the town’s history and heritage.

Today, visitors from all over the world come to St Edwards Church to admire the famous door and learn about its history. Whether or not it truly inspired Tolkien, the door of St Edwards Church is a reminder of the power and beauty of art and architecture, and its story is a testament to the enduring legacy of the past.

There are many reasons why having a Cotswold tour with Secret Cottage Cotswold Tours followed by a cream tea in their secret thatched cottage is the perfect way to experience the beauty and charm of the Cotswolds. Firstly, the tour is led by knowledgeable and passionate local guides who will take you to hidden gems and picturesque villages off the beaten track. Secondly, the small group size ensures a personal and intimate experience. Finally, the cream tea in their secret thatched cottage is a quintessential Cotswold experience, complete with homemade scones, clotted cream and jam, and a cozy atmosphere. It’s a perfect way to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the Cotswolds.

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