The four brass nails, the tables used by the merchants for dealing where goods were sold for cash, are an indication of the street's importance for trade in the city. Behind them stands the giant, pilastered and pedimented Corn Exchange, built in the mid-18C. To the left of the sober, 19C Doric style Council Hall is the exuberantly ornate façade of Lloyds Bank (1854-1858). Note also the 18C Coffee House.

New World Square, on the north side of the Floating Harbour, is an open space linking old and new buildings. It is a pleasant place flanked by cafés and restaurants and enhanced with sculpture, water features and special lighting at night. The Horned Footbridge (1999) over St Augustine's Reach was designed by the sculptor Ellis O'Connell.

Clifton Village forms a group of charming streets including the Mall, Caledonia Place, Princess Victoria Street and Royal York Crescent. Of particular note is All Saints Church, built by G. E. Street in 1868, with stained-glass windows by John Piper.

Dating from the 11-12C, it is well known for being the property of the bishops of Winchester. During the Civil War, Taunton and its castle were under siege on three occasions. Part of it now houses the Somerset County Museum.