Blackfriars walking trail brings medieval past to life

A Newcastle restaurant is using digital innovation to bring local history to life for visitors of all ages.

Blackfriars Restaurant has launched a free interactive walking trail in its medieval cloister garden, blending augmented reality with storytelling and historical reconstructions. 

The trail, accessed via QR codes on interpretation panels, offers 3D visuals, audio guides and immersive content exploring the Dominican friary’s past.

The project is the brainchild of Blackfriars’ owner Andy Hook and Professor Giles Gasper, professor of High Medieval History at Durham University, who collaborated with a team of academics, historians, archaeologists and digital experts on the project.

It was developed by immersive tech firm Animmersion UK and New Visions Heritage, with support from the North of Tyne Combined Authority’s HITS programme.

Renowned local archaeologists Dr Eric Cambridge and Alan Williams also advised on the content to ensure historical accuracy and authenticity.

The team behind the digitally interactive interpretation panels at Blackfriars

Andy Hook, owner of Blackfriars Restaurant, crowned Taste of the North East at the North East Tourism Awards in March 2025, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled with our immersive heritage trail app. 

“Despite the day-to-day pressures of running a busy independent restaurant, we’re deeply passionate about promoting Blackfriars’ unique Dominican story in engaging and accessible ways. 

“This project has brought together historians, archaeologists, digital designers and immersive tech specialists to create something truly unique for the city for people of all ages. 

“With schools breaking up soon, it’s also a new attraction or all the family.”

Professor Giles Gasper, professor of High Medieval History at Durham University, added: “This trail is the culmination of a fantastic collaboration with Blackfriars. 

“Heritage is one of Durham University’s most vibrant areas of research, and this project beautifully bridges the past and future. 

“Through digital technology and academic insight, we’re helping new audiences visualise – and even taste – the past.”

This latest addition follows the restoration of the cloister garden, now a thriving public space home to community events, performances and Dominic’s Brewery, which opened in the site’s historic Chapter House last year.

After completing the trail, visitors can enjoy a pint from the onsite brewery or enjoy a bite to eat in the restaurant or beautiful Cloister Garden.

To explore the trail, visit: Blackfriars Cloister Garden, Friars Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4XN. More info: blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

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