The London Dungeon: Immersive Journey into London's Dark History
Step into London’s darkest tales with live actors, thrilling rides, and immersive storytelling on the South Bank’s most chilling attraction.
Located on the South Bank at the Riverside Building, County Hall, The London Dungeon offers a thrilling and interactive experience that brings over 1,000 years of London's darkest and most macabre history to life. Featuring live actors, immersive sets, and thrilling rides, it explores infamous events and characters such as Jack the Ripper, Sweeney Todd, and the Great Plague. Suitable for families and thrill seekers alike, it combines education and entertainment in a uniquely chilling atmosphere.
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 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
- Thursday 11 am-6 pm
- Friday 11 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to save up to 23% and guarantee your preferred entry time.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the London Eye or SEA LIFE Aquarium for discounted multi-attraction tickets.
- Visit during weekdays or off-peak times to avoid longer queues and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
- Prepare for some dark and spooky scenes; the Dungeon is best suited for visitors comfortable with theatrical horror and suspense.
- Check the Dungeon’s schedule for special seasonal events, especially around Halloween for unique experiences.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Waterloo Station, a 5-minute walk from The London Dungeon. Waterloo is served by the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines. Trains run frequently, with ticket prices starting from £2.50 for a single journey within central London.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near County Hall on Westminster Bridge Road, including routes 211, 381, and RV1. Buses run every 10-15 minutes during the day. A single adult fare costs around £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber can drop you directly at The London Dungeon’s entrance. Travel times vary depending on traffic but typically range from 10 to 30 minutes from central London. Expect fares from £10 to £25.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby on the South Bank or Westminster area, walking is a pleasant option. The terrain is flat and accessible, with the walk from the London Eye taking about 5 minutes along pedestrian-friendly paths.
The London Dungeon location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The London Dungeon
A Walk Through London's Shadowed Past
The London Dungeon plunges visitors into the eerie and often gruesome chapters of the city's history. Situated on the South Bank near iconic landmarks like the London Eye and SEA LIFE Aquarium, it offers a 90-minute immersive tour through cobbled alleyways and shadowy corridors. Visitors encounter live actors portraying notorious figures such as Jack the Ripper and Sweeney Todd, alongside chilling tales of the Gunpowder Plot and the Great Plague. The attraction skillfully blends theatrical storytelling with interactive experiences and special effects to create an engaging narrative of London's darkest moments.Atmosphere and Attractions
The Dungeon is renowned for its atmospheric sets, including a thrilling drop ride that adds an adrenaline rush to the historical journey. The experience is designed to be both entertaining and informative, with a mix of humor and horror woven throughout. Seasonal updates and new scenes keep the attraction fresh, while live rats and cockroaches add to the authenticity of the setting. The combination of theatrical performances, detailed sets, and sensory effects immerses visitors in a captivatingly spooky environment.Location and Setting
Housed in the Riverside Building at County Hall on Westminster Bridge Road, The London Dungeon benefits from its prime location on the South Bank. This vibrant area is a cultural hub, offering stunning views of the River Thames and proximity to other major attractions. The Dungeon’s setting within this lively district enhances the visitor experience, providing an accessible and atmospheric entry point to London’s historical underbelly.Visitor Experience and Practicalities
Tours typically last around 90 minutes, with entry by timed ticket to manage visitor flow. The Dungeon is open daily except Christmas Day, with hours generally from 11am to 4pm on weekdays and extended hours on weekends and during peak seasons. Tickets can be purchased online in advance for better prices and guaranteed entry, with options ranging from standard admission to flexible anytime entry and combination tickets with nearby attractions like the London Eye. The venue is wheelchair accessible and family friendly, catering to a broad audience interested in history, theatre, and immersive entertainment.Educational and Cultural Significance
Beyond thrills, The London Dungeon serves as a cultural heritage site that educates visitors about London’s complex and sometimes sinister past. It highlights key historical events and figures through engaging storytelling, making history accessible and memorable. The attraction’s blend of myth, legend, and fact invites reflection on the city’s evolution and the darker aspects of its identity.Continual Evolution and Visitor Engagement
The Dungeon regularly updates its scenes and performances to maintain relevance and excitement. Special events, seasonal themes, and interactive elements encourage repeat visits and deeper engagement. Its integration with other Merlin Entertainments attractions offers visitors a comprehensive cultural experience of London’s history and entertainment landscape.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
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Entertaining
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly