Research first
Every script is built around evidence, context and the specific character of the site.
About Past Paths
Research-led audio interpretation for historic places.
Past Paths creates digital audio experiences for heritage organisations, helping visitors understand historic places through carefully researched, accessible storytelling.
What we do
We turn research into visitor experiences people can follow at their own pace.
Each Past Paths experience combines historical research, architectural observation and clear interpretation, designed to support heritage partners without adding pressure to staff, volunteers or existing budgets.
Visitor focused
Audio experiences are written to be easy to follow on site, with a clear route through the story.
Partner led
We work with the organisations who know their places best, so interpretation feels accurate and appropriate.
Our purpose
Making local history easier to access.
Past Paths is designed for historic sites, trusts, churches, councils and community heritage projects that want high-quality interpretation without needing to build their own app or audio platform.
Accuracy
Interpretation should be engaging, but it should also be trustworthy.
Atmosphere
The best audio experiences help visitors notice the place around them.
Access
Digital interpretation should support independent visitors and different learning styles.
Partnership
We create experiences with heritage organisations, not simply for them.
Our Team
The people behind Past Paths.
Photograph
Founder & Director
Harry Elsden
Harry founded Past Paths in 2024 with the aim of helping heritage organisations bring the stories of their sites to life through carefully researched digital audio experiences, at no cost to the organisations themselves.
With a degree in Military History and a longstanding interest in history and historic places, Harry also has experience volunteering within the heritage sector. He leads the research and development of Past Paths experiences, working closely with each partner from the initial concept and historical research through to the finished experience.
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Narrator
Howard Leader
Howard is the voice behind Past Paths, bringing each experience to life through engaging and authoritative narration.
An experienced broadcaster and actor, Howard has presented for BBC Radio Lincolnshire and appeared in television productions including 'Allo 'Allo!. He also served for 25 years with the Royal Air Force Reserves, rising to the rank of Wing Commander and commanding the RAF Media Reserves and 7644 Squadron. His extensive background in broadcasting, performance and communications brings a distinctive voice to Past Paths experiences.
Start a Partnership
Interested in discussing a Past Paths experience?
We would be delighted to hear from heritage organisations, trusts and sites interested in creating a carefully researched digital audio experience.