Great Cloister

The Great Cloister in Peterborough is a Grade I listed structure notable for its Early English, Decorated, and Perpendicular architectural styles. The west side of the cloister was originally the east wall of the cellars and is now a solid piece of masonry. It features remains of Perpendicular arcading, including blocked doorways and keystones. There are three blocked round beaded doorways: two located at the south end and one at the north end. The earliest, dating from the early 12th century, has no detail, while the second has a plain round arched head with a label and square jambs. The third doorway also has a plain round arch but features recessed jambs and lacks a label. Additionally, there is blank arcading and two doorways; the west doorway is round arched and adorned with four arcades of colonettes and deep stiff leaf ornament, along with a tympanum featuring a quatrefoil and two dragons. To the right is the frater door, which has a moulded archway and colonettes. Five of the arcades are from the monks' lavatory, rebuilt in the 14th century, with some arcades showcasing elaborately carved heads, while those to the left feature double arcading. The Great Cloister, along with the garden walls, gates, former outbuilding, wall to the north, and mounting block, collectively form a significant group within the precincts.