SKC Studios, which is based at The EpiCentre in Haverhill, has announced the launch of the world’s first environment-aware historical AI avatar at Leeds Castle in Kent, marking a major step forward in how audiences access and experience history.
Developed using SKC Studios’ conversational AI platform 1956 Individuals, the AI Queen Eleanor experience is the culmination of Leeds Castle’s new exhibition, Pilgrimage of Love: Eleanor of Castile, that opened on 9 March 2026.
The AI installation allows visitors to speak directly with one of medieval England’s most influential yet often overlooked queens, and the first female owner of Leeds Castle, transforming historical interpretation into a dynamic, real-time conversation.
Unlike traditional static digital displays, the AI avatar is aware of its surroundings and recognises when visitors approach. It responds naturally to questions, engaging in unscripted dialogue that allows audiences to explore the past on their own
Visitors begin their journey in the historic Gloriette, built by Eleanor in 1278, where the exhibition traces how she transformed Leeds Castle from a Norman fortress into a refined royal residence. Her introduction of cosmopolitan European influences, from tapestries and carpets to tableware and courtly culture, helped establish the castle as a distinctly “queenly” seat of power.
The experience culminates in “An Audience with a Queen,” where visitors encounter the AI avatar and can ask questions about Eleanor’s life, decisions and legacy. The character responds in real time, speaking the three languages she likely used during her lifetime – English, French and Spanish, while capturing the nuances, tone and emotional expression of human conversation.
Babita Devi, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer at SKC Studios, said: “For centuries, history has largely been something we observe through objects and interpretation panels. What we are demonstrating here is a new way to access information. Through 1956 Individuals, knowledge becomes conversational, responsive and immediate, allowing visitors to ask their own questions and explore history in real time. Leeds Castle is at the forefront of this shift, embracing innovation to move beyond static displays and create experiences where the past is not only preserved, but can actively engage with the present.”
Helen Earl, The EpiCentre’s centre manager, says: “It is a tremendous step forward by SKC Studios and this innovation highlights the growing impact of The EpiCentre as a hub for cutting-edge development. With its state-of-the-art laboratories and a dynamic mix of technology-driven businesses, the centre is rapidly establishing itself as a focal point for biotech, life sciences, and advanced technology. The collaboration, creativity, and commercial momentum emerging from companies based here are not only driving innovation but also positioning Haverhill firmly on the map as a destination for forward-thinking enterprises and scientific progress.”
Image Credit: Leeds Castle
