The development of the nunnery site is revealed in this study - from
evidence for Iron Age occupation, the nunnery's foundation in 1144 and
the expansion of the early convent, through to its conversion in the
16th and 17th centuries to a close of large mansions surrounding the
parish church. Drawing together the varied evidence, including
illustrations made during the demolition of the nunnery church in 1788-9
and 18th-century surveys, has allowed detailed reconstructions of the
church and cloister. Relatively wealthy, located in Londons medieval
suburbs and with a dual role as convent and parish church, St Marys
story contrasts with that of many other, poorer and more rural,
nunneries.