Waterford Digital Story Trail

Waterford City, Ireland's oldest city, holds centuries of stories, legends, and historical significance that could easily rival any fairytale. From Viking invaders to rebellious revolutionaries, this vibrant city has seen it all. However, with such a rich tapestry of history, how do you ensure that today's visitors truly connect with and experience the depth of Waterford's past? We took the route of an immersive, interactive, and unforgettable digital story trail. 

Partnering with Waterford City and County Council, we embarked on a mission to bring Waterford's history to life. Our goal was to create an experience that would not only educate but also enchant. We meticulously selected 15 of the most captivating stories from Waterford’s past and wove them into a digital narrative, accessible through an engaging audio tour paired with immersive augmented reality (AR) scenes. From thrilling games to 360º historical recreations, our digital trail transforms Waterford’s streets into a living museum, allowing visitors to step back in time and interact with the city’s most iconic moments and characters.

We began by diving deep into Waterford's storied past, working closely with local historians to ensure accuracy and authenticity. We then transformed these stories into a series of immersive experiences that combined narrative with cutting-edge technology.

1. Viking Adventures: Visitors can listen to Reginald, a Viking King from the 10th century, recount his fierce conquest of Ireland. They have the opportunity to take a selfie wearing a Viking hat - great for social sharing moments!‍
2. Irish Flag: Through AR, they can witness the iconic moment when Thomas Francis Meagher hoisted the first Irish tricolour flag during the 1848 Rebellion.‍
3. Artisans and Legends: The story of Waterford Crystal comes alive as visitors watch ancient glassblowers in action. They also follow the romantic tale of Aoife and Strongbow, whose 12th-century marriage shaped the course of Irish history.‍
4. Architectural Wonders: At the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, visitors can engage with the story of ‘Honest John,’ the architect who dedicated his life to creating Waterford’s most stunning buildings, still standing in all their glory.‍
5. Interactive Battles: At the Watch Tower, history turns into a game as visitors defend Waterford from a 15th-century siege by launching virtual cannonballs at invading forces.‍
6. Time Travel: On Coffee House Lane, visitors are transported to the bustling 18th century through an immersive storytelling scene, walking among the city’s past residents and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of yesteryears.

The digital trail offers a seamless blend of audio storytelling and visual AR elements, making history interactive and accessible. Visitors can choose their path, interacting with as many or as few stories as they like, each providing a deeper connection to Waterford’s rich cultural heritage.

Launched in November 2022, the Waterford Digital Story Trail quickly captivated both locals and tourists. By June 2023, the trail had been experienced more than 10,000 times, reflecting its growing popularity. The trail’s appeal isn’t limited to Ireland—users from over 20 countries have engaged with the app, showcasing its global reach and the universal allure of Waterford’s history.

The Digital Story Trail gained international attention when Waterford was featured in the New York Times as one of the Top 50 Places to Visit in 2024 and the Digital Story Trail was listed as the number one thing to do in the city.

The trail has not only enhanced the visitor experience but also had a tangible impact on Waterford’s tourism industry. Visitors are spending more time exploring the city, drawn in by the interactive elements that bring Waterford’s static monuments to life. This increased engagement is leading to longer stays and higher spending, benefiting local businesses and reinforcing Waterford’s status as a must-visit destination.

By turning Waterford’s historical tales into an engaging, digital experience, we’ve ensured that these stories will continue to be told for generations to come. The trail serves as a testament to the power of blending tradition with innovation, making history not just a subject to be learned, but an experience to be lived.

The experience was also featured in Ireland’s Nationwide programme which showcases the best things to do and see across Ireland. You can watch the video for yourself below.

With 15 stops offering rich audio narratives and breathtaking visuals, the Waterford Digital Story Trail does more than just educate—it immerses, entertains, and connects. By leveraging modern technology, we’ve breathed new life into Waterford’s ancient tales, creating a memorable journey that deepens visitors’ appreciation for the city’s remarkable past. This is not just a tour; it’s a time-travelling adventure, and it’s just the beginning of what’s possible when history meets innovation.