England’s New AI-Powered Tourism Service Fronted By Captain Pugwash To Boost Visitor Experience!

Published on November 23, 2025

Rye, a town that is iconic and located in East Sussex, has officially brought back a high-tech tourist information service to the public, which is AI-powered, with the famous Captain Pugwash at the head of the pack. This new venture endorsed the town’s previous tourist information center, which was ordinary in its operations, and thereby, it gives the visitors a new, engaging way of getting directions. The presence of the friendly user character which was depicted by the town’s resident, John Ryan, is likely to pull the kids and tourists together to uncover the town’s treasure of history and the like.

A New Era for Rye Tourism

Since the closure of the physical tourist information centre, Rye has faced a challenge in maintaining its visitor services. The AI-powered system now fills that gap, providing an accessible, modern solution. The town, known for its medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and rich literary and cultural heritage, is once again ready to offer a seamless experience for tourists.

The AI service, accessed via WhatsApp, allows visitors to interact with Captain Pugwash by scanning a QR code located on new signage around town. This marks a significant step forward for the town’s tourism infrastructure. The service not only provides essential information such as directions, recommendations for cafes and restaurants, and historical insights, but it also offers a fun, engaging experience for children who are already familiar with Captain Pugwash from the popular animated series.

A Tribute to John Ryan’s Legacy

The estate of Captain Pugwash creator John Ryan granted permission for his character to take centre stage in Rye’s tourism initiative. Ryan’s daughter, Isabel, expressed that her father would be “thrilled to bits” to see his creation play such an integral role in the town’s tourism efforts. She explained that Captain Pugwash, known for his adventurous and larger-than-life persona, was always a character who thrived on being the centre of attention, making him an ideal figurehead for Rye’s rejuvenated tourism campaign.

The partnership between the character and the town of Rye is symbolic, blending the rich cultural history of the town with modern technological advancements. This collaboration is a fitting tribute to both Rye’s heritage and its forward-thinking approach to tourism.

Interactive Tourism Experience for All Ages

The integration of Captain Pugwash with the AI service offers a unique opportunity to attract families and children, bringing a playful touch to the visitor experience. Young visitors, who may be familiar with Captain Pugwash from the popular animated series, can engage with the character in a way that feels both familiar and educational. For parents, the ease of accessing information via WhatsApp and the novelty of interacting with a beloved fictional character enhances the experience, making it both practical and enjoyable.

For regular tourists, the new service serves as an efficient and engaging way to get around Rye and uncover hidden gems within the town. Information is instantly accessible, and visitors can ask Captain Pugwash about anything from the best places to grab a coffee to the most iconic historical sites in the area.

Community Effort and Funding

The creation and launch of the new tourism service in Rye have been made possible thanks to Levelling Up funding secured by Rye Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with Rother District Council. This partnership ensures that Rye’s tourism infrastructure remains robust and accessible for both residents and visitors.

The Future of Rye’s Tourism

Rye’s adoption of AI in its tourism services represents a broader trend in the travel and tourism industry, where technology is increasingly being used to enhance the visitor experience. The AI service in Rye is not just a functional solution but also a way to keep the town relevant and engaging for modern visitors, especially families with young children.

By blending technology, culture, and nostalgia, this new initiative promises to boost Rye’s visibility in the competitive tourism market. Visitors now have an easy and fun way to explore the town, making Rye an even more attractive destination for tourists seeking both history and modern convenience.

A New Chapter for Rye

Rye has already opened its door to a new era of its tourism services with the arrival of Captain Pugwash who leads the transformation and introduces a mix of old and new that is very likely to draw tourists for a long time. The town gives a chance to experience and enjoy the fun in a memorable way through a very innovative and interactive service that engages the tourists. The town, thus, has already turned its focus on the future where the marriage of AI and local heritage will keep Rye luminous in the eyes of new visitors who want to experience the charm again.