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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.

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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
  • Environment icon 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.
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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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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.

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