This is definitely not a place for the faint-hearted. But for those who need a thrill to feel fully alive, this underground attraction is a must-visit during your stay in the capital of the United Kingdom.
London Dungeon is a must-visit spot in London for those who could celebrate Halloween every day. Located on Tooley Street, near Westminster Bridge, this terrifying attraction takes brave visitors into the depths of horrifying dungeons. Once inside, they’ll find much more than empty cells and information plaques. While exploring the macabre past of the city, visitors will experience adventures straight out of the most dreadful horror stories.
What is London Dungeon?
London’s most terrifying attraction transports its guests to the bloody pages of the city’s history. However, this is far from being a classic museum, and it has nothing to do with glass-encased exhibitions. What you’ll find is a thrilling underground walk through a series of rooms, each showcasing stories of serial murders and other tragedies that have marked the past of the British capital. This 90-minute journey, complete with realistic sets, live actors, and special effects, will show you that in 17th-century London, almost everyone had reason for their hair to stand on end.
Hotels near the London Dungeon
💰 Marlin Waterloo – Apartments close to the London Dungeon.
🏨 Park Plaza London Waterloo – A modern hotel near Waterloo.
💎 Hyatt Regency London Albert Embankment – A Thameside hotel with views of Parliament.
What do the underground corridors of London hide?
As you descend into the depths via a terrifying elevator, you’ll find yourself transported back to 16th-century London. Guy Fawkes is waiting for you, looking for his chance to blow up the British Parliament. But he’s not the only sinister figure lurking beneath the city. London Dungeon also tells the tale of the murderous barber Sweeney Todd and his partner, Mrs. Lovett, famous for her not-so-sweet, yet definitely unusual, pies. Keeping your nerves in check won’t be easy, as this pair is often described as the most dangerous criminals of the 18th century. As if that weren’t enough, you’ll also come face-to-face with the notorious serial killer Jack the Ripper.
Of course, serial killers and their stories aren’t the only reasons guests at London Dungeon shudder in fear. Eyes widen as they enter the torture chamber or witness the trial of witches being burned. The labyrinth of corridors also shows the devastation caused by plagues and diseases. With realistic visuals and stellar acting performances, you’ll be able to imagine streets filled with dying people, hear their cries, and even smell the stench of death haunting London’s alleys. This eerie setting is impossible to ignore.
Dungeons like a haunted amusement park
In some parts, London Dungeon feels like a haunted house, a popular attraction often found in amusement parks, but in certain areas, it truly feels like an authentic theme park. As you make your way through the maze-like passages, try to escape the wrath of Jack the Ripper, and for a real adrenaline rush, hop on the Drop Ride—a ride simulating the experience of a hanging gallows.
More attractions
Especially for the most dedicated fans of dark atmospheres, London Dungeon has prepared something extra. If puzzles are your favorite form of entertainment, you won’t be able to resist the chance to experience an Escape Room. You’ll have just one hour to escape the cell of Guy Fawkes along with your family or friends. For those who don’t enjoy time-pressured games but still want to have a unique experience in the underground of the English capital, there’s an enticing option of organizing a terrifyingly original birthday party or bachelorette night.
Depending on the season in which you visit London, apart from the regular tour stops, you might encounter various surprises amidst the maze of rooms. Because at London Dungeon, you can celebrate not just Halloween with fear in your eyes, but also Christmas or Easter. After the tour, guests can relax at a unique Victorian-style bar. It’s worth ordering a themed cocktail and chatting with others about which part of the visit gave them the biggest chills.
Exploring London Dungeon
As with most attractions in London, it’s best to purchase tickets in advance. But which entry ticket should you choose? There are several options. Depending on how precisely you plan your stay in London, you can opt for a ticket that grants entry at a specific time or one that allows entry at any time on your selected day. For those planning a strictly budget-friendly trip, a special afternoon offer is available, which lets you experience London Dungeon during the last hour of its opening.
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, there are VIP tickets, which not only allow entry to the attraction at any time but also offer unlimited special photos and a complimentary cocktail to finish your visit in the dungeons. However, this is not the most popular option.
What does gain popularity are combo tickets, allowing visitors to save money not just on the spooky walk through the London dungeons but also on rides on the nearby London Eye or visits to the Madame Tussauds wax museum. You can easily book either standard or combo tickets online via the GetYourGuide portal.
Practical information
- It is best to purchase tickets for the London Dungeon in advance. This way, you can avoid standing in long lines and reduce the risk of tickets being sold out.
- Buy tickets on GetYourGuide
Hotels near the London Dungeon
The London Dungeon is in County Hall on the South Bank, next to the London Eye. Here are three handpicked options for different budgets.
💰 Marlin Waterloo
Apartments in London, 600 metres from the London Eye and 800 metres from the Houses of Parliament. Lambeth North Tube station is a minute’s walk away, and Waterloo is 10 minutes. Guests have use of a kitchen, laundry and gym. Reception is open 24 hours.
🏨 Park Plaza London Waterloo
A hotel a few minutes’ walk from Lambeth North Tube station and under 10 minutes from Westminster Bridge and the London Eye. Rooms have branded beds, 48-inch TVs and ESPA toiletries. There’s an indoor pool, gym, restaurant, bar and café on site. Reception is open 24 hours.
💎 Hyatt Regency London Albert Embankment
A hotel on the Thames, close to the Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey. Big Ben is a 12-minute walk and the London Eye 15 minutes. On site there are two restaurants, including the rooftop Mezemiso, two bars and a gym. Reception is open 24 hours.
