Abbey House dates from the 16th century, built on 13th century foundations, with some evidence of a substantial house on the site as early as the 11th century; in the 'basement' there also is a Saxon arch.It has been extensively renovated and extended since, particularly in Tudor times.
In 1539, Malmesbury Abbey was sold by Henry VIII to a local clothier William Stumpe, who also bought the site and lived in it himself.