The Yew Tree

Of the original Saxon Church, nothing remains. However a tangible link with that period is the ancient yew tree, which stands opposite the church's south door. It is thought to be at least 1000 years old, and may well mark the spot where Christianity was first preached in Harlington. During the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries the tree became famous for its remarkable topiary work, as may be seen from a print dating from 1770. For many years, until about 1825, the annual clipping of the yew tree was a local Whitsuntide festivity.