Merton Priory

Merton Priory was an Augustinian priory located where the River Wandle and Stane Street meet in Colliers Wood. The foundations of its Chapter House remain preserved beneath Merantun Way and are now accessible through a heritage museum.

The priory was founded in 1114 by Gilbert Norman and hosted the 1236 Parliament where the Statute of Merton was enacted. After its dissolution in 1538, its stone was reused to construct Henry VIII's Nonsuch Palace.

The priory was a center of monastic life for Augustinian monks in the surrounding community. The artifacts and burials displayed in the museum show how this religious community organized their daily worship and work.

The Chapter House museum sits beneath the A24 road but remains accessible through guided tours and educational visits. Check ahead to arrange a visit, as access is typically organized through scheduled group sessions and heritage programs.

Stone from the demolished priory was directly transported after its closure to build Henry VIII's Nonsuch Palace nearby. This physical connection links the two lost Tudor structures in an unexpected way.

Location: London Borough of Merton

Inception: 12 century

Founders: Gilbert Norman

GPS coordinates: 51.41452,-0.18127

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:03