Bridgwater is a town full of history; its medieval street pattern is well-preserved and several of its street names take us back to earlier times, for example Penel Orlieu, Dampiet and Friarn.

When you walk around Bridgwater, you will soon see that its history is told in its buildings and places.

Above the north door of St Mary's Church are two Green Men sprouting vines from their ears – fine work of the early 13th century, but reflecting a much earlier religion. Look up to the sky and you see it pierced by the slender spire from the 14th century, built in spectacular fashion very soon after the town's population had been halved by the Black Death.

Cut through narrow Church Passage past the rich gold leaf of Hooper's shop sign to the wide expanse of the High Street, where in times past, there was a row of shops down the centre of the road selling meat.

Cross to ancient Horlocke Street (now Clare Street) where dwelt the intrepid 14th century pilgrim Isolda Parewastel.

To help visitors find the historical landmarks, Bridgwater and District Civic Society has placed distinctive blue plaques on many buildings.The map shows you where they may be found.

A new Town Trails Guide has been published for 2010. This enables you to explore Bridgwater's rich heritage through three illustrated walks.

It is available from the Town Clerk's office, Blake Museum, SDC offices and Bridgwater Bookshop.

Contact the Civic Society by email heritage@bridgwatercivic.org.uk or telephone 01278 459 659, or visit www.bridgwatercivic.org.uk.