Pewsey and Trowbridge added to popular Explore Wiltshire heritage app

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

The app, first launched in June 2023 and featured information and walking trails for Bradford on Avon, Chippenham, Cricklade, Devizes, Salisbury 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 Pewsey and Trowbridge. New trails covering Marlborough and Tisbury will follow later in the 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 Pewsey and Trowbridge, you will be able to find out why Trowbridge is known as a Magna Carta town and why a North Korean leader was interested in a local brew and discover why one of Wiltshire's iconic white horses is carved into the Pewsey hillside.

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 also 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 (opens new window) and Google Play (opens new window).

More information about the Wiltshire Towns Programme can be found at: https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/news/wiltshire-council-to-continue-successful-grants-programme-to-boost-high-streets.