Gloucester Cathedral wins heritage award

Some of the new digital features at Gloucester Cathedral (Photo: Gloucester Cathedral)

Gloucester Cathedral has received recognition at this year's Assocation of Heritage Interpretation Awards. 

It said it was "delighted" after winning the Discover Heritage Award in the Historic Properties/Sites category. 

The awards are held every two years to recognise best practice in heritage interpretation across the UK and Ireland. 

The award was given to Gloucester Cathedral in recognition of its new multi-faceted approach to interpretation, combining a variety of elements, from stone carved sculpture to audio-visual projections, augmented reality and an interactive gallery. 

The cathedral has been engaged in a significant overhaul of key parts of the cathedral site to enhance visitor experience. 

'Project Pilgrim Phase One', as it has been called, has been supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund with the aim of bringing the cathedral's rich Christian and architectural heritage to life. 

Digital technology has been a big part of the ambitious project, with a new app and virtual tour allowing visitors to digitally experience parts of the building that have restricted access, like the crypt and medieval library. 

Lorna Giles, head of visitor experience at the cathedral said: "We are very proud to have won a Discover Heritage Award for our new visitor experience and interpretation scheme which uses innovative ways to help people explore the cathedral's rich history.

"From dressing up to augmented reality, there are elements for all ages and interests to get excited about.

"Everyone involved in the project worked extremely hard and the result has been nothing short of extraordinary - it is wonderful that this has been recognised with such a prestigious award."

David Masters, lead consultant for Imagemakers, which has worked with in partnership with the cathedral on its digital and virtual projects, said: "This is one of the most complex and multifaceted projects we have been involved with, and is the result of years of consultation, planning, design, testing and evaluation.

"We are delighted and honoured that the cathedral's interpretation has been recognised with this award."

News
US religious groups challenge new immigrant enforcement policies
US religious groups challenge new immigrant enforcement policies

A United States Federal Judge has granted an injunction that will prevent immigration agents from carrying out operations in places of worship after a group of religious organisations launched a lawsuit against the Trump administration over new enforcement policies.

Gyles Brandreth joins campaign to end avoidable sight loss
Gyles Brandreth joins campaign to end avoidable sight loss

Gyles Brandreth has thrown his support behind CBM UK’s campaign to end avoidable sight loss.

Church leaders call for 'rethink' of school closures in Ramadan
Church leaders call for 'rethink' of school closures in Ramadan

“We urge the governors of the affected states to reconsider this decision and explore alternative arrangements that respect the rights and freedoms of all citizens.”

Bangor celebrates 1,500 years by honouring cathedral
Bangor celebrates 1,500 years by honouring cathedral

Bangor Cathedral's central role in the city's 1,500 year history will be formally recognised