Visitors to Britain’s Greatest Palace can now experience personalized tours through a new state-of-the-art digital platform named after a beloved historical figure.
Blenheim Palace has launched “Archie – your interactive guide,” a sophisticated multimedia app that allows guests to create tailored experiences while exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The platform, which incorporates artificial intelligence elements, is named in honor of Archie Illingworth, who served as the Palace’s Administrator and first Chief Guide from 1950 until his retirement following the 10th Duke’s death in 1972.
Unlike traditional audio guides that offer standardized content, the new platform enables visitors to choose specifically what they want to see and hear, accessing over three centuries of previously untold stories about the historic estate. Many narratives are shared directly by staff members, adding authenticity to the cultural heritage experience.
“With the more traditional audio guide, our visitors were able to listen to a description of what they saw before their eyes – and that description would be the same for everyone,” explained David Green, Head of Innovation at Blenheim Palace and Culturati Project Manager. “With ‘Archie – your interactive guide’, every visitor can enjoy a bespoke, unique experience.”
The app reveals fascinating historical details, including how the Palace’s Long Library served as a convalescence hospital during World War I for soldiers recovering from injuries ranging from gunshot wounds to pneumonia. Visitors can also discover how the grounds were utilized to test Spitfire fighter aircraft guns during World War II.
One particularly compelling feature includes Archie Illingworth’s own recollections of the 1954 House of Dior fashion show at Blenheim, the first of two fundraising events organized by the 10th Duchess to benefit the Red Cross.
Beyond content delivery, the platform incorporates sophisticated sensor technology throughout the Palace to monitor visitor flow, helping staff optimize the guest experience through strategic crowd management.
The initiative is part of Culturati, a groundbreaking Horizon Europe RIA project for which Blenheim Palace serves as the UK pilot site. The project represents a collaboration between 14 European partners, including computer scientists, cultural professionals, academics, and community organizations. Funding comes from the European Commission with coordination by Bilkent University and additional UK support through Innovate UK.
Blenheim has also partnered with Oxford Brookes University, which is conducting comprehensive user research to further enhance the platform’s effectiveness.
Visitors wishing to experience the personalized tour can access “Archie – your interactive guide” at culturati.blenheimpalace.com.
