Experiencing History Live: How Interactive Experiences Are Transforming Exeter and Beyond
In a world where audiences want experiences which they can be part of, Exeter has some suitable options. A city full of rich history, it is embracing the move into the digital age. Interactive experiences that invite participation can be found throughout, turning attractions into more attractive, engaging experiences. Let's explore what's on offer for locals and visitors alike in the wonderful city.
Interactivity as a Common Thread — From Festivals to Digital Platforms
Immersion and interactivity are becoming increasingly important in the entertainment sector and have filtered into tourist sites. We can see these experiences being employed at festivals such as Glastonbury, for example. Festival-goers have been able to influence artist setlists through app-based voting, while in other cases they have controlled lighting and other visuals of artists. This can redefine the whole festival experience, adding an extra layer of engagement. In the iGaming sector, we see similar interactivity used to increase loyalty and customer experience. Betfair, an online casino offering gambling games, allows gamers to engage with live dealers and other users, not just watching but interacting. This creates an engaging experience and more closely mirrors the in-person casino experience. In Exeter, we can see similar interactivity at visitor sites.
Bringing Exeter’s Past to Life Through Real‑Time Immersion
Historic landmarks are entering the digital age in Exeter. The city's cathedral, partnering with the University of Exeter, will offer an experience that no longer just involves walking through observing the centuries of history associated with it. It is part of the VISTA-AR project, which will use augmented and virtual reality tools to change the tourist experience. Through these digital changes, tourists will be able to meet figures from the past associated with the church as well as have immersive experiences through tablets or VR headsets. For the visitor, this creates a much more memorable experience, and they can gain a deeper knowledge of the city and the history behind it.
Take a Step Back 2000 Years
The Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery offers visitors a journey through the history of the city that dates back 2,000 years. Visitors can explore artefacts and archaeological finds in a hands-on way that can make the history of the city come alive. Combining education and entertainment, interactive and immersive exhibits and displays provide a little more enjoyment than sometimes associated with thousand-year-old pieces.
For another experience that can transport you back in time, escape rooms offer something different. They have become increasingly popular as activities to do in cities. Escape Hunt or Prodigy Escapes offers interactive experiences in which users can take on the role of different characters in a bid to beat the clock, solve different clues and escape from their room on time. Experiences like these transport players into the middle of the action, rather than on the sideline just watching.
Exeter is a city steeped in history but taking a step into the future with digitised tourist experiences. AR and VR pilots show that city officials are thinking about how to engage visitors in the future, which can only mean good news for the city's economy as the city's cultural institutions offer more immersive experiences.
