First of all, this blog entry isn’t going to have that many pictures in it because, after I took three snaps, I learned of the general rule that they did not allow photography inside of the tour. As I took these photos while waiting in line, I went ahead and kept them, but I must reiterate one of my long-standing and wise rules that, if a business or a location asks that you not take pictures in certain places, respect their wishes! You are a guest, so be a good one!
So, London Dungeon… I freakin’ loved it.
But, Jason, you ask… what is London Dungeon?
The preconception is that it is a haunted house like Ripley’s Haunted Adventure in San Antonio and I’m assuming other places, but to say that London Dungeon is a haunted house is vastly understating it. London Dungeon is part haunted house, part thrill ride, part live show, and part history lesson all rolled into one.
I know, I just lost you with “history lesson,” but bear with me.
London Dungeon celebrates the absolute pitch black darkest of London’s long history starting with King Henry VIII’s love of beheading to the capture and grisly torture of Guy Fawkes, to the Great Fire of London, to the terror of Jack the Ripper, the Black Death, and more… all are presented in live mini-shows to a very intimate audience. Some are enhanced with special effects, some rely on the talent of the presenter (and there are some talented presenters at this attraction) and some are literal thrill rides that I won’t spoil for you.
The best thing about London Dungeon is that it is educational. I even overheard a little boy about three quarters of the way through the tour exclaim, “Hey, we’re learning history!” in a voice that seemingly acknowledged the unfairness and fascination with the whole ordeal. Although I didn’t bring my own little horrors with me on this trip, I would bring them to London Dungeon in a heartbeat even if some of the subject matter and jokes are a little risque for the younger crowd.
If I had to choose a downside to London Dungeon, it would be the paradoxical stance that perhaps there is a little too much crammed into the tour as it takes over an hour and a half to go through it… I’m not saying that it’s not all fascinating, there were no lulls in the experience, but it is not a walk through you can be done with in a half-hour if you’re used to the Ripley’s attractions elsewhere in the world.
London Dungeon is a must-see if you’re morbidly curious or just morbid all together.
Jason Gaston 