File:Great Malvern Priory interior, looking east (43415005612).jpg

Great Malvern Priory was originally founded in 1085 by a monk from Worcester. The pillars and arches of the nave are Norman, some of the stones still bear the mason's marks. The Priory was expanded and redesigned in the 15th century. It began about 1440 in the Perpendicular style. It was consecrated by the Bishop of Worcester in 1460. At the dissolution the people of Malvern raised the then vast sum of £20 and bought the Priory. Although it escaped damage in the Civil War, it was during the 18th century that the Priory suffered most, and was not until mid Victorian times that the major restoration works started. The Priory was built to house 30 Benedictine monks, although there were never that many there. At the time of the black death the number was reduced to 10. The cloisters were on the south side of the Priory, but have long since disappeared. There was also once a south transept and Lady chapel which were both destroyed during the dissolution of the monasteries. The 13th century lady chapel was originally built over an existing crypt. The Priory has two sets of misericords, the earlier group dates from the 14th century and depicts miscellaneous subjects. The second set depicts the labours of the months, and was carved in the 15th century. There is also a collection of mediaeval tiles dating from 1453. About 100 different designs survive. The sanctuary contains an effigy of the 13th century knight and also an Elizabethan monument to John Knotsford and his wife. There are several stained-glass windows with mediaeval glass. Charles Darwin's daughter is buried in the churchyard. She died aged 10 probably of tuberculosis.