The London Dungeon: Immersive Journey into London’s Dark Past
Step into London’s darkest history with live actors, thrilling rides, and immersive storytelling in the heart of the South Bank.
The London Dungeon is a thrilling, immersive attraction located in the Riverside Building at County Hall, London. It brings over 1,000 years of London’s darkest history to life through 16 live actor-led shows, two thrilling rides, and atmospheric 360-degree sets. Visitors encounter infamous characters like Jack the Ripper and Guy Fawkes, experiencing a blend of horror, humor, and historical storytelling in a unique theatrical setting near the London Eye.
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: 4 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 online in advance to secure your preferred time slot and save on entry fees.
- Prepare for jump scares and dark scenes; the attraction is not recommended for young children or those sensitive to horror.
- Stay until the end to enjoy a themed drink at The Tavern, a unique Victorian-style pub experience.
- Visit on weekdays or early in the day to avoid peak crowds and long queues.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the London Eye for a full day of entertainment on the South Bank.
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 Westminster Station (Circle, District, Jubilee lines), then walk approximately 10 minutes along Westminster Bridge Road to County Hall. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes from central London, with frequent service and no additional cost beyond standard fares.
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Bus
Bus routes 211, 381, and RV1 stop near County Hall on Westminster Bridge Road. Travel times vary from 25 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Buses run regularly throughout the day, and Oyster or contactless payment is accepted.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic and costs approximately £8-£15. Note that traffic congestion is common during peak hours.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking along the South Bank from the London Eye or Waterloo Station takes about 10-15 minutes on mostly flat, paved paths suitable for most visitors.
The London Dungeon location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The London Dungeon
A Dark Tapestry of London’s History
The London Dungeon offers visitors a gripping journey through a millennium of the city’s most sinister and macabre events. Situated in the vast underground vaults of County Hall on the South Bank, this attraction vividly recreates pivotal moments such as the Black Death plague, the Gunpowder Plot, and the reign of terror by Jack the Ripper. The experience is brought to life by a talented cast of around 20 live actors who portray notorious characters including Sweeney Todd, Guy Fawkes, and the Plague Doctor, blending chilling historical facts with gallows humor.Immersive Theatrical Experience with Cutting-Edge Effects
Visitors are immersed in 360-degree theatrical sets enhanced by stunning special effects, sounds, smells, and tactile sensations. The London Dungeon features 16 interactive shows, each designed to engage guests with dramatic storytelling and live performances. The attraction’s design includes dark, narrow corridors and atmospheric lighting to heighten the sense of suspense and surprise. Two thrilling rides, the Tyrant Boat Ride and the Drop Dead Drop Ride, add adrenaline-pumping moments, simulating a perilous journey to execution and a sudden free-fall plunge into darkness.Historical Characters and Spine-Chilling Scenes
Throughout the experience, guests encounter infamous figures from London’s past. The Tyrant Boat Ride reenacts Henry VIII’s wrath on his conspirators, while the Drop Dead Ride simulates the terrifying hangings at Newgate gallows. Other highlights include walking through plague-ridden streets, witnessing Guy Fawkes’ dramatic attempt to blow up Parliament, and exploring Jack the Ripper’s bleak Whitechapel. Each scene combines historical accuracy with theatrical flair, encouraging audience participation and interaction with the actors.The Evolution and Location of the Dungeon
Originally opened in 1974 as a wax museum under London Bridge, the Dungeon has evolved into a multi-million-pound attraction with a complete rebuild in County Hall. The current location offers a spacious underground setting with modern facilities and is adjacent to the iconic London Eye, making it a central part of London’s South Bank entertainment district. The attraction’s design was influenced by Baroque art and features a mix of historic and theatrical architectural elements.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The London Dungeon is designed to be both entertaining and educational, with a mix of horror, humor, and history. The atmosphere is intense and immersive, with some scenes featuring jump scares, loud noises, and sensory effects that may not be suitable for young children or those sensitive to dark themes. The experience concludes in The Tavern, a Victorian-themed pub where guests can relax with a themed drink, enhancing the immersive storytelling.Practical Details and Accessibility
The attraction operates daily with varying opening hours, typically from late morning to late afternoon. Tickets are available online, with options for multi-attraction bundles including the London Eye and SEA LIFE Aquarium. The Dungeon is accessible via public transport and is located in a busy urban area with nearby amenities. While the attraction is largely accessible, some areas involve narrow passages and theatrical effects that may challenge visitors with mobility issues.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
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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