Merton Priory was established in 1117, and demolished in 1538 following the dissolution of the monasteries. Parts of the building were reused at Nonsuch Palace, and this Norman arch became part of Abbey House, which was built on the site of the former priory. The arch was uncovered when Abbey House was demolished in 1914, and it was later moved to the grounds of St Mary the Virgin, where it remains to this day.
