

Bringing Northern Stories to Life: How an Animation Maker Captures Our Heritage
by Northern Life
Northern England is a region of the United Kingdom that defines the northern regions through a rich tapestry of stories, traditions, and histories. From Manchester’s industrial heritage to Liverpool’s maritime legacy and Newcastle’s cultural vibrancy, it is full of narratives waiting to be told. In recent years, animation has emerged as a powerful medium to capture and convey this heritage, breathing new life into age-old tales and making them accessible to contemporary audiences.
The Rise of Animation in the UK
The UK’s animation industry has long been celebrated for its creativity and innovation. Iconic productions such as “Wallace & Gromit,” “Peppa Pig,” and “Shaun the Sheep” have not only garnered domestic acclaim but have also achieved global recognition, being exported to numerous countries worldwide.
In 2025, the UK’s animation, VFX, and post-production market were valued at approximately £3.94 billion, with projections indicating growth to £9.36 billion by 2030. This impressive growth trajectory underscores the increasing demand for high-quality animated content and the UK’s pivotal role in meeting this demand.
Animating Northern Heritage
Animation offers a unique avenue to explore and celebrate Northern England’s rich cultural heritage. By transforming historical events, local legends, and traditional practices into animated narratives, creators can engage audiences of all ages and foster a deeper appreciation for the region’s history.
A notable example is the “Stories of Migration” exhibition held at SOAS University of London in early 2025. This exhibition showcased animations and comics that depicted migrant experiences, including stories from the global south. The use of animation in this context allowed for a nuanced exploration of complex themes, making the narratives more relatable and impactful.
The Role of Animation Makers
At the heart of these animated narratives are the animation makers—talented individuals and teams who blend artistry with technology to craft compelling stories. Their work involves meticulous research to ensure historical accuracy, coupled with creative storytelling to engage viewers emotionally.
In the context of northern heritage, animation maker play a crucial role in preserving and promoting local stories. By collaborating with historians, cultural institutions, and local communities, they ensure that the animations authentically represent the region’s history and culture.
Economic and Cultural Impact
It is not only enhancing cultural narratives but also bringing economic value. The UK animation industry has proven to be of high economic value. Production expenditure under the Animation Tax Relief has increased by 27% since its introduction in 2013 to an estimated £97.1 million in 2016. This investment has added £354.8 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the UK economy, generating a return on investment of £4.44 for every £1 of tax relief.
Moreover, animated content tends to spawn ancillary products like DVDs, books, toys, and clothing, thus increasing its economic impact. For example, franchises like “Peppa Pig” have not only attracted audiences but also made significant money from merchandise sales.
Conclusion
As technology continues to evolve, the potential for animation to capture and convey Northern England’s heritage will only expand. The integration of advanced technologies like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) is transforming the animation landscape, enabling creators to push creative boundaries and deliver more immersive experiences.
Animation has been a great tool in telling northern stories.
With the introduction of these new innovations, animators will be able to produce lively and interactive storytelling that preserves the past while engaging future generations. These works will continue to inspire and educate everyone in this part of Northern England about their region’s history, making sure the heritage of this place lives in the digital era.
Animation has been a great tool in telling northern stories. By capturing the heart of the region’s heritage through animated narratives, creators preserve history and make it accessible and engaging to a wide audience. As the UK’s animation industry continues to thrive, its role in celebrating and promoting northern culture becomes increasingly significant, promising a future where these stories are cherished and shared across generations.