The London Dungeon: A Thrilling Journey Through London's Dark History
Step into the shadows of London’s past with live actors, thrilling rides, and chilling tales in a 90-minute immersive journey through history’s darkest moments.
The London Dungeon offers a 90-minute immersive experience that brings over 1,000 years of London's macabre past to life through 16 live shows, two thrilling rides, and interactive storytelling. Located in the Riverside Building at County Hall on Westminster Bridge Road, this attraction blends live actors, special effects, and theatrical sets to recreate infamous moments and characters such as Jack the Ripper, Guy Fawkes, and Sweeney Todd. Visitors navigate through plague-ridden streets, medieval gates, and the chilling torture chambers, ending their visit with a themed Victorian tavern experience.
A brief summary to The London Dungeon
- Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London, SE1 7PB, GB
- +442079678022
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance online to secure your preferred time slot and avoid long queues.
- Prepare for jump scares and dark themes; the attraction is not recommended for young children.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the experience involves walking and standing for about 90 to 110 minutes.
- Stay until the end to enjoy a drink at the immersive Victorian Tavern, included with your ticket.
- If sensitive to heat or crowds, visit during weekday mornings for a less crowded experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground Jubilee, Northern, or Bakerloo lines to Waterloo Station, approximately a 10-minute walk to the Dungeon. Services run frequently, and an Oyster or contactless card can be used for fares around £2.50–£5 depending on time and ticket type.
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Bus
Bus routes 211, 77, and RV1 stop near County Hall on Westminster Bridge Road. Buses run every 10–15 minutes with fares starting at £1.75 using contactless payment. The stop is a 5-minute walk to the Dungeon entrance.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations typically takes 10–20 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £8–£15. Drop-off is available near County Hall, but parking is limited and expensive in the area.
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Walking
From the London Eye or Westminster Bridge, it is a 5–10 minute walk along the South Bank with flat, accessible paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
The London Dungeon location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Low-Visibility Conditions
Discover more about The London Dungeon
A Dark Historical Odyssey Beneath London
The London Dungeon is a unique theatrical attraction located in the Riverside Building at County Hall, close to the London Eye on the South Bank. It immerses visitors in a dramatic journey through a millennium of London's darkest and most notorious history. The experience unfolds in vast underground vaults, where 16 live shows and two rides bring to life the capital’s grim past with a blend of horror, humor, and historical storytelling. From the plague-ridden streets of medieval London to the sinister alleys haunted by Jack the Ripper, the Dungeon offers a multi-sensory journey filled with chilling sights, sounds, and even smells.Live Performances and Immersive Storytelling
The attraction features approximately 20 talented actors who portray infamous historical figures and villains such as Guy Fawkes, Sweeney Todd, and the Torturer. Their performances are enhanced by elaborate costumes, detailed sets, and cutting-edge special effects, creating an atmosphere that is both terrifying and entertaining. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the actors, making the experience dynamic and personal. The shows balance dark themes with moments of scarily funny humor, making the Dungeon a theatrical spectacle that educates as much as it thrills.Thrilling Rides and Gruesome Scenes
Among the standout features are two thrill rides: the Tyrant Boat Ride and the Drop Dead drop ride. The Tyrant Boat Ride takes guests on a turbulent journey down a mock River Thames to the Tower of London, reliving the fate of Henry VIII’s victims. The Drop Dead ride plunges visitors three storeys in near darkness, simulating a public hanging. Alongside these rides, visitors encounter scenes like the Great Fire of London, the torture chamber with its authentic implements, and the eerie Newgate Prison, all designed to immerse guests fully in the macabre history.The Victorian Tavern Finale and Visitor Experience
The experience concludes in The Tavern, a 360-degree themed Victorian pub where guests can relax and reflect on their journey. Each table offers a unique sensory experience with sights, sounds, and smells that continue the immersive storytelling. Visitors can enjoy an included alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink, with options to upgrade to premium cocktails. The Dungeon is known for its atmospheric design, including dim lighting, narrow corridors, and occasional jump scares, making it not suitable for young children or those sensitive to horror.Historical Significance and Evolution
Originally opened in 1974 as a wax exhibition, The London Dungeon has evolved into a state-of-the-art attraction with a £20 million refurbishment. It preserves and dramatizes key historical events such as the Gunpowder Plot, the Black Death, and infamous criminal tales, using authentic props and detailed sets. Notably, one of the skeletons displayed was discovered to be genuine human remains, adding to the attraction’s eerie authenticity. The Dungeon’s location opposite the Houses of Parliament adds symbolic resonance, especially with the Guy Fawkes story.Atmosphere and Practical Considerations
Visitors should prepare for a 90 to 110-minute walking experience that involves standing and navigating dim, sometimes cramped spaces. The attraction can be busy during peak times, and the air can feel warm and humid due to the special effects and crowds. While the Dungeon offers a thrilling and educational insight into London’s dark past, it is best suited for adults, teens, and older children who enjoy immersive theatrical horror. The attraction blends history, horror, and humor in a way that is both memorable and uniquely London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
County Hall
0.0 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
South Bank Lion
0.2 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
Chindit Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
The Cenotaph
0.5 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
0.5 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
The Women of World War II
0.5 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
King Charles Street
0.5 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
Westminster Hall
0.5 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
King Charles Street Arch
0.5 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
0.6 km
A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
Sir Winston Churchill statue
0.6 km
Explore the Sir Winston Churchill statue in Parliament Square, a symbol of resilience and leadership in the heart of London’s historic landscape.
Embankment Pl
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Embankment Place, a picturesque riverside destination in the heart of London, perfect for leisurely strolls and cultural exploration.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
0.6 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
Parliament Sq
0.6 km
Where Britain's democratic institutions converge, history breathes, and voices are heard.
Embankment station
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Embankment Station, a historic gateway to London's iconic landmarks along the River Thames, blending Victorian elegance with modern transport.
Unmissable attractions to see
Build-A-Bear Workshop - Westminster Bridge
0.0 km
Create your own cuddly companion in this vibrant, family-friendly toy workshop by the Thames at County Hall.
London Eye Ticket Office
0.1 km
Discover London's skyline from the iconic London Eye, an unmissable experience offering breathtaking views of the city's landmarks and vibrant atmosphere.
Shrek's Adventure London
0.1 km
Step into a magical world of fairy tales and fun with Shrek and friends on London’s South Bank, perfect for families and kids aged 6 to 12.
lastminute.com London Eye
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of London’s iconic skyline from the towering lastminute.com London Eye on the South Bank.
The Queen's Walk
0.1 km
Explore The Queen's Walk in London for stunning river views, rich history, and vibrant culture along the iconic Thames River promenade.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
0.1 km
Dive into London’s premier marine world with over 500 species, immersive underwater tunnels, and inspiring conservation efforts at SEA LIFE London Aquarium.
The London Eye Millennium Pier
0.1 km
A modern riverside gateway beside the London Eye, connecting you to iconic London landmarks and vibrant Thames river journeys.
Jubilee Gardens
0.2 km
A peaceful, family-friendly green sanctuary on London’s South Bank with stunning views and a vibrant community spirit.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.2 km
Modern luxury and iconic views converge at Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge, your gateway to the heart of London’s South Bank.
The Graffiti Tunnel
0.2 km
London’s largest legal graffiti gallery beneath Waterloo Station, where street art thrives in a constantly evolving urban canvas.
Memorial wall
0.2 km
A heartfelt 500-metre mural along the Thames commemorating every UK life lost to COVID-19 with over 245,000 hand-painted hearts.
Westminster Bridge
0.3 km
Experience the historic charm and stunning views from Westminster Bridge, an iconic London landmark linking culture and architecture.
Leake St
0.3 km
Dive into London’s vibrant Banksy Tunnel, where ever-changing legal graffiti transforms a forgotten underpass into a dynamic urban art sanctuary.
Florence Nightingale Museum
0.3 km
Explore the inspiring legacy of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, at this engaging museum in the heart of London’s South Bank.
City Cruises London Westminster Pier
0.3 km
Experience the beauty of London from the water at Westminster Pier, your gateway to unforgettable Thames River adventures.
Essential places to dine
OKAN South Bank
0.1 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Troia Southbank
0.1 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
The Archduke
0.3 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.3 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
wagamama southbank
0.4 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Strada Southbank
0.4 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.4 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Wahaca Southbank
0.5 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
The Garden
0.6 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.6 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Bustronome London
0.6 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.7 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.9 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.9 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Rules
1.0 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.1 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Browns of London
0.2 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.2 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.3 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.5 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.5 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
The Giftree London
0.6 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Gifts of London
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Crest of London Ltd
0.8 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.8 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Sugar And Style
0.8 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
j-me original design ltd
0.9 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.0 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.0 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
London Transport Museum - Shop
1.1 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le Champagne Bar
0.1 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.1 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.1 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
Primo Bar, London
0.2 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.2 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.2 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.4 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.4 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.5 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The Spy Bar
0.6 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
The Understudy
0.7 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.7 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
Old Shades
0.7 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Westminster Arms
0.8 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cirque Du Soul
0.2 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.2 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.2 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Heaven
0.7 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Proud Late
0.8 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
TSQ Club
1.0 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.2 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.2 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Penthouse London
1.2 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Tiger Tiger London
1.2 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
1.3 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Café de Paris
1.3 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Ivy Club
1.3 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.3 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Scotch of St James
1.4 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Adults Only
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
