Retelling Norfolk’s history through virtual reality

Client

South Norfolk District Council

Sector

Government / Public Sector

Tech

Virtual Reality (VR)

History retold

As part of the Wymondham heritage trail, South Norfolk Council wanted to bring Robert Kett’s 1549 rebellion to life. We created a VR experience that retells the key moments of the Battle of Dussindale. Using detailed historical research, motion capture and photogrammetry, the immersive film lets users step into one of Norfolk’s most significant events.

The challenge

Kett’s Rebellion is a defining episode in English history. In 1549, Robert Kett of Wymondham led a revolt against the government, which culminated in the Battle of Dussindale near Norwich. For South Norfolk Council, the challenge was how to bring this important story to life as part of the Wymondham heritage trail. They needed an engaging way for visitors to connect with the past – one that was historically accurate, immersive and accessible at specific points along the trail. The solution had to blend education with impact, helping audiences experience the drama and significance of the rebellion firsthand.

The process

We created a VR experience that placed users directly in the middle of the story. Drawing on detailed historical research, the film combined context about the rebellion’s build-up with the decisive moments of the final battle. To achieve authenticity, we laser-scanned models to create characters, used motion capture to animate their movements, and built digital environments of key locations. Photogrammetry captured important surviving sites such as Elm Hill and Bishop’s Bridge in Norwich. These elements were woven together into a short VR film, designed to be viewed on Windows Mixed Reality headsets at installations along the Wymondham heritage trail.

The outcome

The VR experience offered visitors a powerful way to engage with Norfolk’s history. By combining motion capture, photogrammetry and accurate storytelling, it recreated the sights and sounds of the Battle of Dussindale in vivid detail. Installed at specific points along the Wymondham heritage trail, it gave people a chance to step back into the 16th century and experience events where they happened. For South Norfolk Council, the project provided an innovative method of making heritage accessible and memorable – enhancing the trail with immersive technology and ensuring one of the county’s most important historical events was vividly retold.