It originated as an Augustinian Abbey, founded c. 1140 by prominent local citizen, Robert Fitzharding, who became first Lord Berkeley.  The transepts of the church date from this period, but its most vivid remains can be seen in the Chapter House and Abbey Gatehouse.  The Chapter House is a stunning Romanesque gem dating from c. 1160, one of the most important buildings of its era in the country, with stone walls decorated with a series of intricate, patterned, carvings.  It is still used for important community events and can be hired out for corporate entertaining and candlelit dinners