Marlborough added to popular Explore Wiltshire heritage app

Visitors and local residents in Marlborough can now enjoy exploring their local history and cultural heritage with the town being the latest to be added to the 'Explore Wiltshire' heritage app.

The app, first launched in June 2023 currently features information and walking trails for Bradford on Avon, Chippenham, Cricklade, Devizes, Pewsey, Salisbury, Trowbridge and Warminster, plus a link to the Explore Malmesbury web app.

The free, easy to use location-aware app will now also include information about historical landmarks, cultural sites and significant historical events in Marlborough. New trails covering Wilton and Tisbury will follow early in the new year.

Cllr Richard Clewer, Leader of Wiltshire Council and Cabinet Member for Heritage, Arts and Tourism, said: "So far, the feedback we've had from users of the Explore Wiltshire app has been really positive. We would like to encourage those who have downloaded and used the app to write a review and rate the app on their app store to encourage more prospective users.

"It's been really great to see people not only download our heritage app, but also getting outside in the fresh air and finding out more about the rich and diverse heritage of Wiltshire's parishes, towns and city.

"The app has lots of interactive maps, walking trails, hunts and challenges; plus photographs, audio and visual clips meaning that it is suitable for all ages and abilities. With the inclusion of Marlborough, you will be able to find how a neolithic mound became a medieval castle that has since disappeared; uncover a bronze bust of Henry VIII's Lord Chancellor, Cardinal Wolsey, and his cat, in a local church; learn how the town was once destroyed by a Great Fire in 1653 and rose again to become a centre for stage coach travel in the 1700s; discover a local company that became famous for producing some world renowned puppets, and much more.

"Having vibrant, well-connected communities within Wiltshire is a key priority in our Business Plan. The aim is that those people who are using the app will also spend time using the local facilities, bars and shops, helping to boost the local economy."

Phil Harding, from Wessex Archaeology and a popular member of the former Channel 4 Time Team programme, features on the app providing an introduction for each town. Phil said, "I love Wiltshire which makes me really pleased to have any opportunity to promote the county. Working to help compile this app has made me aware of how it will help show things to look out for and make any trip just that little bit more enjoyable."

The app has been created by Wiltshire Council in collaboration with town and parish councils and Bristol-based app developer Calvium, on the Place Experience Platform which supports the local and visitor economy.

Explore Wiltshire is available free for download to Apple and Android devices by searching 'Explore Wiltshire' on the Apple App Store: Explore Wiltshire (opens new window) and Google Play: Explore Wiltshire (opens new window).

More information about the Wiltshire Towns Programme.