The UK’s cultural and heritage sector is one of the richest in the world. From Roman baths to medieval castles, it tells the story of who we are, where we’ve come from, and what we value. It’s a sector that not only fuels our national identity but also drives economic growth, supports tourism, and fosters social cohesion.

Yet in an age of digital transformation, the way we engage with culture and heritage is rapidly evolving, demanding a greater reliance on digital technology. Audiences are no longer passive observers; they are active participants, curators, and storytellers. At the heart of this shift lies mobile connectivity.

Our latest report, Transforming Culture and Heritage, explores how mobile technology is helping cultural institutions, heritage sites, and local communities reimagine their work, making it more accessible, immersive, and inclusive than ever before.

The report explores a range of interesting case studies, demonstrating the real-world impact of mobile innovation in the sector. For example, did you know more than 26,000 visitors to Sherwood Forest have immersed themselves in augmented reality (AR) experiences powered by a private 5G network?

Through the 5G Connected Forest project, mobile connectivity has brought the legend of Robin Hood to life with interactive storytelling accessed via smartphones. These mobile-enabled experiences not only enhance visitor engagement but also support education and conservation, with local schools and universities involved in content creation and deployment.

This is one of many powerful examples of how mobile technology is transforming even the most remote heritage sites into dynamic, inclusive destinations. As mobile infrastructure continues to expand, the opportunities for the culture and heritage sector are vast. Collaboration between mobile operators, cultural organisations, and local authorities will be key to unlocking this potential.

To find out more about how mobile connectivity is empowering people to explore, understand, and contribute to the stories that shape our society, read the full report here.

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