The majority of Scottish medieval towns and early modern towns have an axial main street with back lanes running parallel and plots set in a herring-bone pattern from the main street. The radial pattern of Coupar Angus streets from the market cross was therefore unusual, although not unique.
A Cistercian abbey was founded in 1164. The monks of the Abbey traded with continental Europe in wool, buying locally and exporting via Perth. In 1559 the Abbey was burned by a Reformation fuelled mob. Over the years the stone on the buildings were removed for reuse and only a gateway remains today. The Abbey was dissolved in 1607 during the reign of the Protestant King James VI and I of England
The town was linked with the rest of Scotland after the opening of the railway in 1837. It had an impact not only on the life of residents, but also on the townscape. The line cut straight across the top of the High Street, where level crossing gates operated. The railway closed in 1967.
A Roman camp can be seen to the east of the town as a complex of ditches and ramparts.
The town's Tolbooth Tower served as a court and prison and dates from 1702.
The 17th century saw the ongoing evolution of the town with records relating to the construction of churches and the growth of trades. A number of streets led or stood near the market cross, these being referred to as ‘causeys’ – causeways or cobbled streets.