In monastic times this gateway figured in the important ceremony attending the installation of a new abbot.

Before entering the precincts of the monastery the destined prelate, accompanied by his chaplains and personal following, halted in this corner of the market-place, and after entering one of the adjoining houses where his shoes were removed he proceeded barefoot into the churchyard.

The whole convent, duly accoutred, were in waiting, and as soon as the new abbot appeared in the gate they emerged in ordered procession from the north porch of the great church to meet him.

After various formalities he was solemnly escorted to the church, where further important ceremonials were performed.
[Illustration: ABBOT REGINALD'S GATEWAY] To the previous century may be assigned the bases of the substantial piers which stood at the crossing of the nave and transept, and supported the tower of the great church.

These remains may be seen in the excavated hollow a few steps from the southern side of bell tower.
The tower of the church was begun by Abbot Walter soon after the Conquest, and there can be little doubt that these massive foundations belong to his time.