AR stories of Lowestoft’s past

Client

East Suffolk Council

Sector

Education, Arts and Culture

Tech

Augmented Reality (AR), Immersive Apps

Bringing Lowestoft’s heritage to life with immersive AR storytelling

East Suffolk Council wanted to celebrate the history of Ness Point in Lowestoft – the UK’s most easterly point – as part of a wider regeneration project. We created an AR app that unlocks five themed story experiences via interpretation boards across the site, blending history, illustration, film and animation to help visitors explore the town’s fascinating past and future.

The challenge

Ness Point is a unique location with a deep connection to Lowestoft’s fishing and maritime heritage. As part of rejuvenating the Ness, East Suffolk Council sought a way to tell some of the town’s varied stories in a way that was both engaging and accessible for visitors. The challenge was to create an experience that would resonate with different audiences – from locals to tourists – while making use of the physical space itself. The solution had to balance historical accuracy with creative storytelling, helping visitors connect with the struggles, resilience and future ambitions of Lowestoft’s community.

The process

We worked closely with the council to design a content plan across key themes – the fishing industry, wartime challenges and the influence of the sea. After detailed historical research, we produced a mix of content formats, including animations, photo slideshows, voiceover narratives and filmed ‘living portraits’ of historical figures. Each theme was brought to life with an illustrated 3D tableau, which visitors could place in the real world via the AR app. Unique illustrated markers on interpretation boards triggered the stories, ensuring the digital content stayed rooted in the physical landscape of Ness Point.

The outcome

The Ness AR app offers visitors a rich, interactive way to discover Lowestoft’s past and future. By combining 3D models, illustrations, film and vintage photography, it creates a layered storytelling experience tied directly to the site. Quizzes at the end of each theme encourage deeper engagement, with correct answers unlocking content for use anywhere. Available on Android and iOS, the app has become a valuable tool in helping East Suffolk Council highlight the heritage of the area while supporting its regeneration efforts – giving both locals and visitors a new appreciation for the town’s enduring story.