Kenilworth Revealed: Step Back in Time in Abbey Fields with Augmented Reality

Kenilworth Revealed is a free augmented reality (AR) experience that brings the lost stories of St Mary’s Abbey in Abbey Fields back to life – right where they happened. Using your smartphone, and the unique app, you can uncover centuries of history layered onto today’s landscape, turning a walk through Abbey Fields into an immersive journey back to the year 1500.

The Abbey was once one of the most important religious centres in the region, closely linked to Kenilworth Castle and the wider story of the town. Although much of it was dismantled in 1538, Kenilworth Revealed allows you to see, hear and experience what can no longer be seen above ground. Point your phone at marked locations across the site and watch buildings rise, stories unfold and daily life re‑emerge through engaging visual and audio content.

Discover Abbey Fields in a New Way

Set entirely within Abbey Fields, the experience focuses on the Abbey Gatehouse, Guest Hall ruins and surrounding grounds. At each AR point, visitors can explore scenes from medieval life, listen to historic characters, complete quizzes, and collect digital “relics” as part of themed quests. The experience is designed to be accessible, family‑friendly, and flexible – perfect for both short visits and longer explorations.

For residents, Kenilworth Revealed offers a fresh perspective on a much‑loved green space, revealing hidden layers of local history and strengthening pride of place. For visitors, it adds discovery and interactivity to one of the town’s most beautiful and peaceful settings.

Adding to a Day Out in Kenilworth

Kenilworth Revealed is designed to complement a wider day out in Kenilworth, not replace it. Combined with a visit to Kenilworth Castle, , independent shops, cafés and riverside walks, the AR experience encourages people to stay longer and explore more of the town on foot. Everything is within easy walking distance, making Abbey Fields a natural stopping point on a cultural or leisure visit, confirming Kenilworth’s reputation as a place where heritage, technology and everyday enjoyment come together.

How to Take Part

No specialist equipment is needed. Simply download the app on iOS and Android for free by following instructions Kenilworth Revealed.

Engaging with history differently

Expect a relaxed, engaging experience that fits easily into a walk or picnic in Abbey Fields. You’ll use your smartphone to unlock augmented reality scenes at key points, where historic buildings reappear, voices from the past are heard, and daily medieval life is revealed. You can dip in and out at your own pace, follow themed challenges, answer quizzes, and discover stories together as a family or group. It’s free, outdoors, and easy to do - adding colour, curiosity and conversation to your time in Kenilworth, whether you stay for ten minutes or an afternoon.