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The building of the Priory Church started on 3 March 1103, in the reign of Henry I, so the church has recently celebrated its 900th anniversary. The building was started by William de Lovetot, the local land owner. The St Augustine priors lived in the (now ruined) cloisters to the north of the church, next to the River Ryton. As the principle church in the area Canons were sent out to villages (including Sheffield) to found churches. The library was one of the finest in the country and contained many rare manuscripts.

The fourteenth century Priory Gatehouse used to control access to the town. Now the road runs down the side of it. An unusual feature is the “Way Side Shrine” In the building. Robin Hood’s body is reputed to have rested in the Gatehouse on its way to burial.