Visitors and locals alike can now uncover the lesser-known stories behind Marlborough’s rich heritage through hunts and trails.

The Explore Wiltshire heritage app first launched in June 2023 and was trialled in several Wiltshire towns such as Bradford on Avon, Chippenham and Cricklade.

The free app provides interactive maps, walking trails, hunts and challenges to help users uncover each town’s history, as well as photographs, audio and visual clips.

Following the huge success so far, the app has now been expanded to include the hidden secrets and cultural sites of Marlborough, with new trails for Wilton and Tisbury set to follow in early 2024.

Users can learn about the medieval castle which disappeared from Marlborough, uncover the story behind the bronze bust of a cat, and find out how the Great Fire of 1653 brought the town to ashes.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Marlborough Fire Service by the Town Hall in 1905.Marlborough Fire Service by the Town Hall in 1905. (Image: Wiltshire Council)

"So far, the feedback we’ve had from users of the Explore Wiltshire app has been really positive,” said Councillor Richard Clewer, leader of Wiltshire Council and cabinet member for Heritage, Arts and Tourism.

“It’s been really great to see people not only download our heritage app, but also getting outside in the fresh air and finding out more about the rich and diverse heritage of Wiltshire’s parishes, towns and city.

“Having vibrant, well-connected communities within Wiltshire is a key priority in our business plan.

"The aim is that those people who are using the app will also spend time using the local facilities, bars and shops, helping to boost the local economy.”

The app has been created by Wiltshire Council in collaboration with town and parish councils and Bristol-based app developer Calvium.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Cardinal Wolsey's cat lurking in a Marlborough church.Cardinal Wolsey's cat lurking in a Marlborough church. (Image: Newsquest)

Phil Harding from Wessex Archaeology, who is a popular member of the former Channel 4 Time Team programme, also features on the app to give an introduction for each town.

“I love Wiltshire so it makes me really pleased to have any opportunity to promote the county,” he said.

“Working to help compile this app has made me aware of how it will help show things to look out for and make any trip just that little bit more enjoyable.”

You can download the Explore Wiltshire app for free on any Apple and Android device by searching ‘Explore Wiltshire’ in the app store.