A NEW interactive app that unlocks the mysteries of medieval Bordesley Abbey debuts at Forge Mill this half term.
Using the app visitors can scan locations around Redditch’s ruined 12th Century abbey for an exciting treasure trail full of history.
On a journey guided by Thomas the Stonemason, players can try to find mason’s marks across the archaeological site that trigger animations, games and quizzes about life at Bordesley Abbey hundreds of years ago. Thomas even introduces players to some of his medieval monk friends.
And there’s a special Thomas sticker reward for any players that find all the marks.
The interactive experience was developed by museum staff and Redditch-based company AP Interactives using funding from the Heritage Lottery, and the characters in it were created by pupils from Walkwood Middle School and RSA Academy in conjunction with local artist Lee Bradley.
Debbie Lakeman, museum officer, said: “This fantastic technology helps bring Bordesley Abbey back to life for our visitors and you’ll have so much fun following the trail you might not even realise you’re learning some history!
“We’ve tried and tested parts of this application at events and with schools but we’re excited to launch the complete experience for the first time.”
Lily Bird, aged 11, whose family trialled the app, said: “I really enjoyed finding out all about the different areas of the abbey by scanning the symbols, it was a great way to learn about our local history and have fun at the same time!”
Freddie Bird, aged five, added: “I loved finding the symbols and then scanning them into the tablet to find the clues.”
Tablets running the app will be available in the museum from the Bank Holiday Monday on May 29 and then throughout half term, during museum opening hours which are 11am until 4pm. They’re £2 to use or £1 for museum visitors.
For this and other activities at Forge Mill Needle Museum and Bordesley Abbey Visitor Centre, visit www.forgemill.org.uk.
