St Edward's Church

St Edwards Church, situated in the quaint town of Stow-on-the-Wold in the Cotswolds, England, is an intriguing blend of historical and spiritual significance. The church, renowned for its captivating beauty and serenity, is particularly famous for its ancient wooden door flanked by two yew trees, creating an enchanting, fairy-tale entrance.

History

The construction of St Edwards Church dates back to the 11th century, with numerous developments and enhancements made over successive centuries. Its fascinating history emanates from every corner, from the 15th-century stone spire to the exquisitely carved pulpit from the Jacobean era.

How to Get There

St Edwards Church is in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold, which is about 90 minutes by car from both Birmingham and Bristol. Regular public buses service the area from Cheltenham and Gloucester. If travelling by train, the nearest railway station is Moreton-in-Marsh, from where one could take a bus or taxi to Stow-on-the-Wold.

List of Attractions

At St Edwards you will find:

• The iconic North Door – A popular photographic spot due to its resemblance to a mystical door leading to another realm.
• Chapels – The Lady Chapel and the Corpus Christi Chapel reflect the spiritual history of the place.
• Medieval Glass – Some exceptional examples of medieval glass in the Chancel windows.
• Bell Tower – The 88-foot high tower houses a mixture of eight bells, all dating from 1700 to 2011.

Ticket Information

The church is a place of worship, open for the community and visitors to enjoy freely. There is no entrance fee required, although donations to support the upkeep of the building are appreciated. The doors are open daily from morning until dusk.

Visiting Tips

• It is a functioning parish church, so please be respectful especially during service times.
• Wear suitable attire to respect the sanctity of the place.
• The light is best for photography in the early morning or late afternoon.
• Complete your visit with a walk around the charming Stow-on-the-Wold.
• Don’t forget to visit the local tea rooms and pubs in the town.