Langport began as a hill settlement beside where the River Parrett could be crossed, and the medieval archway is a remnant of its defences. A bridge was then built to carry the ancient route to the west country.
The market town gradually expanded along an arched causeway over flooded land and became a flourishing river port.
Its trading and banking success has left the fine church, the hanging chapel, numerous grand merchants houses, the Town Hall and riverside warehouses.