Case Study: Cartmel Priory engages visitors with immersive VR from Holdens

Cartmel Priory reaches 871k views with Holdens

Cartmel Priory, one of the UK's oldest places of worship, sought new methods to engage visitors with its 800-year history beyond traditional information boards and tours. They approached Holdens looking for an innovative way to immerse guests in their rich past, leading to the development of a virtual reality experience.

Holdens produced a one-of-a-kind, educational VR experience focusing on the story of 'The Young Martyr'. The solution used hand-drawn 3D illustrations, professional voiceovers, and a bespoke soundtrack, all housed in a custom-built gaming pod installed inside the church. This world-first installation for a church was a major success, with over 250 visitors on its opening day and significant national media attention, including a feature on BBC’s Songs of Praise that garnered 871k views. The campaign achieved a total reach of 1.3 million.

Cartmel Priory