Cartmel Priory was founded in 1189. Most of the surviving architecture is from the Gothic period, including its most unusual feature, the top stage of the tower rotated 45 degrees to make the corners face the cardinal points of the compass. A piece of ex-situ sculpture identified as originating from Bradenstoke Priory, Wiltshire, is preserved inside.

The site was given to Cuthbert in 674. The present priory was founded in 1189.

The chevron voussoir is identified as originating from the Augustinian priory of Bradenstoke, Wiltshire, founded c. 1139. The reason why a sculpture from Wiltshire is now in Cumbria may be explained by the fact that Cartmel was founded as a daughter-house of Bradenstoke. The sculpture could perhaps have been transferred here in the 19th or 20th century following the notorious destruction of some of the priory buildings in the late 19th century and especially the 1930s. Further research may clarify exactly when and why the presentation of the piece to Cartmel was made.