13th Century Arched Laver

The lavatorium,also anglicised as laver and lavatory, was the communal washing area located in the west cloister. The two large arched recesses, dating from the late 13th century with geometric tracery panelling on the rear wall, formed the laver. Canons were required to wash before meals; thus the laver was typically adjacent to the refectory. The laver had a piped water supply with taps that were probably set over a lead or pewter washing trough.