York Dungeon - Halloween 2024
- The Black Widow
The new show for Halloween has taken over the City Ghosts scene, with a new story about a murderous widow, who had unfortunately lost one of 2 of her previous husbands!
Of course - as she tells her story and starts to refute the claims against her, the truth becomes quite apparent, as we are led to believe that she has been murdering her husbands. What was interesting is that this show was effectively a two hander, with the Black Widow and her currently sick husband, and the two of them managed to tell a great story (and get a couple of really fun jump scares, utilising the Dungeon's trick of sudden appearances in the dark!.)
For a seasonal show we were surprised at the complexity of the script - with the Black Widow having to deliver a comprehensive story, whilst getting in the required tricks and scares. The actor pulled this off perfectly, with our only complaint coming after we had left the room. We hadn't quite moved into the next scene and we could hear the two actors behind us down the corridor, discussing something non Dungeon related!
But it's always fun to see the Dungeon attractions do seasonal shows and this was one of the strongest we have seen for a while!
Of course - as she tells her story and starts to refute the claims against her, the truth becomes quite apparent, as we are led to believe that she has been murdering her husbands. What was interesting is that this show was effectively a two hander, with the Black Widow and her currently sick husband, and the two of them managed to tell a great story (and get a couple of really fun jump scares, utilising the Dungeon's trick of sudden appearances in the dark!.)
For a seasonal show we were surprised at the complexity of the script - with the Black Widow having to deliver a comprehensive story, whilst getting in the required tricks and scares. The actor pulled this off perfectly, with our only complaint coming after we had left the room. We hadn't quite moved into the next scene and we could hear the two actors behind us down the corridor, discussing something non Dungeon related!
But it's always fun to see the Dungeon attractions do seasonal shows and this was one of the strongest we have seen for a while!
York Dungeon - Halloween 2023
- The Grey Lady
York Dungeon's latest show has arrived for the Halloween season, as guests are invited to face the Grey Lady, a local legend from the nearby Theatre Royal. Unlike many other seasonal shows, The Grey Lady is in addition to the main Dungeon shows and not just a makeover of one of the existing scenes. As that, the Dungeon have been able to squeeze it in between Curse of the Witch and Dick Turpin, which we are saddened to say, means it is overshadowed by the existing shows.
For example - Curse of the Witch is one of best installations of the classic Dungeon tricks - i.e. an actor utilises periods of darkness to move around the set, providing jump scares when the lights come on etc. The show is genuinely atmospheric and leaves guests wondering how the caged witch is able to move around the set so quickly.
Therefore to repeat the same scare tactics in the next show (albeit with a new story) means that the show feels like "more of the same", as opposed to anything new and original. Now that's not saying that the attraction isn't fun - the story is definitely local to York, and it introduces some different characters, as well as some more colorful sets that we wouldn't usually expect at a dungeon.
Although we enjoyed the jump scares - it was only after we left the venue that we realised how clever this attraction was. Based in an unused part of the Dungeon, it was clear that ALL the characters we met in this show were supposed to be ghosts, and we loved the way the Dick Turpin actor came in to question why we were all sat in the dark!
Outside of the new show - we had a great run throughout the rest of the Dungeon with a particularly vocal and fun set of actors guiding us on our tour. The returning shows such as The torturer and the judge were as fun as usual, and all the cast were making their best effort to scare and entertain everyone in the party.
In the end, we had a fantastic time at York Dungeon but The Grey Lady was slightly overshadowed by the shows around it. saying that -we still jumped throughout the show, and the Dungeons need to be commended for adding something new for the season.
The Grey Lady haunts the Dungeon until the end of October!
For example - Curse of the Witch is one of best installations of the classic Dungeon tricks - i.e. an actor utilises periods of darkness to move around the set, providing jump scares when the lights come on etc. The show is genuinely atmospheric and leaves guests wondering how the caged witch is able to move around the set so quickly.
Therefore to repeat the same scare tactics in the next show (albeit with a new story) means that the show feels like "more of the same", as opposed to anything new and original. Now that's not saying that the attraction isn't fun - the story is definitely local to York, and it introduces some different characters, as well as some more colorful sets that we wouldn't usually expect at a dungeon.
Although we enjoyed the jump scares - it was only after we left the venue that we realised how clever this attraction was. Based in an unused part of the Dungeon, it was clear that ALL the characters we met in this show were supposed to be ghosts, and we loved the way the Dick Turpin actor came in to question why we were all sat in the dark!
Outside of the new show - we had a great run throughout the rest of the Dungeon with a particularly vocal and fun set of actors guiding us on our tour. The returning shows such as The torturer and the judge were as fun as usual, and all the cast were making their best effort to scare and entertain everyone in the party.
In the end, we had a fantastic time at York Dungeon but The Grey Lady was slightly overshadowed by the shows around it. saying that -we still jumped throughout the show, and the Dungeons need to be commended for adding something new for the season.
The Grey Lady haunts the Dungeon until the end of October!
York Dungeon - Halloween 2021
This year's Halloween event at York Dungeon is called Hex of the Witch and is linked to the venue's most recent attraction - Curse of the Witch. The show itself is the kind that the Dungeons do so well. and involves a lot of darkness and a lot of sudden appearances and disappearances. Telling the story of Isabella Billington, the show on its own would be genuinely scary, but for Halloween the witch's curse has escaped into ALL parts of the Dungeon.
To be honest - it all started out so innocent - our guide during the York Minster show pulled out a witches totem during his show, which we thought nothing about, but slowly and insidiously throughout the whole experience, more and more references to the infamous witch were made. Subtle totems and stick figures appeared in random places, and characters such as the plague doctor would suddenly become possessed by the character of Isabella and would spout random protestations of innocence.
By the time we reached the courtroom, it was obvious that Isabella was affecting all the shows across the attraction, and as the last person was sentenced, an eerie laughter was heard as she claimed her final revenge.
Therefore by the time we got to the Curse of the witch show we were completely primed to meet the historical character, and as such, the show played out even stronger than expected. It was clear that this witch was powerful and as we sat in the darkness, we knew that her retribution would be loud and sudden!
In a way it's shame that the Witch show isn't last, as once this story was wrapped up we still had the Dick Turpin carriage ride to survive. Fortunately due to where we were sat - this gave us such a sudden and terrifying jump scare, that this reviewer nearly landed on the floor!
York Dungeon has always been a tightly paced show and we loved the changes that had been made across most of the scenes. Well done to the creative team in trying something so different and pulling it off so well. We cant wait to see what they bring us next!
After our visit we popped into the Blue Boar pub, which is supposedly the location of where Dick Turpin was laid out after he died in 1739. The cellar bar has been decorated in collaboration with The York Dungeon, as you can see in the pictures below, If you are visiting the Dungeon then it is is really worth stopping off at the pub too!
To be honest - it all started out so innocent - our guide during the York Minster show pulled out a witches totem during his show, which we thought nothing about, but slowly and insidiously throughout the whole experience, more and more references to the infamous witch were made. Subtle totems and stick figures appeared in random places, and characters such as the plague doctor would suddenly become possessed by the character of Isabella and would spout random protestations of innocence.
By the time we reached the courtroom, it was obvious that Isabella was affecting all the shows across the attraction, and as the last person was sentenced, an eerie laughter was heard as she claimed her final revenge.
Therefore by the time we got to the Curse of the witch show we were completely primed to meet the historical character, and as such, the show played out even stronger than expected. It was clear that this witch was powerful and as we sat in the darkness, we knew that her retribution would be loud and sudden!
In a way it's shame that the Witch show isn't last, as once this story was wrapped up we still had the Dick Turpin carriage ride to survive. Fortunately due to where we were sat - this gave us such a sudden and terrifying jump scare, that this reviewer nearly landed on the floor!
York Dungeon has always been a tightly paced show and we loved the changes that had been made across most of the scenes. Well done to the creative team in trying something so different and pulling it off so well. We cant wait to see what they bring us next!
After our visit we popped into the Blue Boar pub, which is supposedly the location of where Dick Turpin was laid out after he died in 1739. The cellar bar has been decorated in collaboration with The York Dungeon, as you can see in the pictures below, If you are visiting the Dungeon then it is is really worth stopping off at the pub too!
York Dungeon - Post Lockdown
The Dungeon attractions around the UK have been some of the first scare attractions to open after the Government restrictions due to Coronavirus. So, the question people many people have asked is how can the Dungeons open yet local theatres cant? This is addressed in an FAQ - "Unlike theatres, the Dungeon is a linear, walk-through attraction for small groups that takes visitors on a journey through our darkest history. We have fully reviewed the Dungeons experience, making changes to the way our Dungeon dwelling storytellers interact with visitors and have worked closely with our Local Health Authority to put in place a wide range of new safety measures that adhere to Government guidelines, ensuring every peasant has a truly great experience."
So what does that mean to anyone visiting? First up - the attraction was pre-book only and places were extremely limited with only six guests in every group. Once at the venue - social distancing signs were in place in the queue line and throughout the experience. All guests were subjected to a temperature check before entering and groups were advised to keep apart in each room, with the social distancing measures built into the story/script of some of the scenes.
To ensure guest safety, The Dick Turpin carriage ride and ensuing Execution show have been cut, and the Labyrinth has been made a one way walk through scene. The opening show has also been revised to welcome a new character - The Black Jester.
All through the attraction, masks were compulsory for guests, and all the expected hand sanitising stations were in place. Behind the scenes, we have been assured that "enhanced and additional cleaning" was taking place throughout the day.
So what is the verdict on this new style of Attraction? It certainly feels weirder and more intimate being in smaller groups (the Dungeons are normally synonymous with large crowds all jostling for position between scenes). The enhanced procedures are there to make guests fell safe (which is slightly anachronous to the regular Dungeons experience, where they try to create an air of fear and unease) but there is still plenty of the main show left to experience.
Until such time that all restrictions can be lifted, it would appear that the Dungeons have done everything the possibly can to allow a re-opening in this uncertain time. As to whether the public are ready to experience this more intimate style of show, it remains to be seen - but with the reduced capacity on opening weekend the attraction quickly sold out!
So what does that mean to anyone visiting? First up - the attraction was pre-book only and places were extremely limited with only six guests in every group. Once at the venue - social distancing signs were in place in the queue line and throughout the experience. All guests were subjected to a temperature check before entering and groups were advised to keep apart in each room, with the social distancing measures built into the story/script of some of the scenes.
To ensure guest safety, The Dick Turpin carriage ride and ensuing Execution show have been cut, and the Labyrinth has been made a one way walk through scene. The opening show has also been revised to welcome a new character - The Black Jester.
All through the attraction, masks were compulsory for guests, and all the expected hand sanitising stations were in place. Behind the scenes, we have been assured that "enhanced and additional cleaning" was taking place throughout the day.
So what is the verdict on this new style of Attraction? It certainly feels weirder and more intimate being in smaller groups (the Dungeons are normally synonymous with large crowds all jostling for position between scenes). The enhanced procedures are there to make guests fell safe (which is slightly anachronous to the regular Dungeons experience, where they try to create an air of fear and unease) but there is still plenty of the main show left to experience.
Until such time that all restrictions can be lifted, it would appear that the Dungeons have done everything the possibly can to allow a re-opening in this uncertain time. As to whether the public are ready to experience this more intimate style of show, it remains to be seen - but with the reduced capacity on opening weekend the attraction quickly sold out!
|
|
York Dungeon - Curse of the Witch 2019
Very scary
The strobe lighting was excellent and it stuck to the basics of a horror show but with the modern day scares and its usual historical element thrown in. Its not to be missed!
The strobe lighting was excellent and it stuck to the basics of a horror show but with the modern day scares and its usual historical element thrown in. Its not to be missed!
York Dungeon Halloween 2018
A year round attraction, York Dungeon offers an immersive step into the gruesome history of York.
With the hallmarks of the dungeon franchise evident, such as the familiar (but not so friendly) faces of the plague doctor, the torturer and the judge, York Dungeon blends the expected with it's own unique history perfectly.
York's rich history offers a platform to plunge guests into the history of Viking invasions, crime and punishment, infamous Highwaymen. It’s delve into the Viking history of York certainly made for a bloody look into how the Viking invasion shaped the York of today.
New for 2018 is Hide and Shriek , where we got to meet Margaret Clitherow, a martyr who practiced Catholicism despite it being illegal, and eventually being hunted by parliamentarians. In this scene, there were a few sudden noises as the law tried to bang down the door, which helped build some tension and led to her concealing us in the next scene, (which effectively led us into the mirror maze).
Like other dungeons, York Dungeon blends aural sensory overload with a simple switch of the lights to create tension, sometimes making even the biggest and bravest of the group jumpy. The attention the detail within the sets, enthusiasm and gusto from it's actors, and occasional adult humour make it fun for the whole family.
York Dungeon packs a punch when compared to it's big brother in London, and is certainly one to visit.
With the hallmarks of the dungeon franchise evident, such as the familiar (but not so friendly) faces of the plague doctor, the torturer and the judge, York Dungeon blends the expected with it's own unique history perfectly.
York's rich history offers a platform to plunge guests into the history of Viking invasions, crime and punishment, infamous Highwaymen. It’s delve into the Viking history of York certainly made for a bloody look into how the Viking invasion shaped the York of today.
New for 2018 is Hide and Shriek , where we got to meet Margaret Clitherow, a martyr who practiced Catholicism despite it being illegal, and eventually being hunted by parliamentarians. In this scene, there were a few sudden noises as the law tried to bang down the door, which helped build some tension and led to her concealing us in the next scene, (which effectively led us into the mirror maze).
Like other dungeons, York Dungeon blends aural sensory overload with a simple switch of the lights to create tension, sometimes making even the biggest and bravest of the group jumpy. The attention the detail within the sets, enthusiasm and gusto from it's actors, and occasional adult humour make it fun for the whole family.
York Dungeon packs a punch when compared to it's big brother in London, and is certainly one to visit.
Review - Dungeon Lates York Dungeon 2018
Now we all love Friday the 13th right? Of course we do! And, to mark this special date we were itching for something scare themed to do. Thankfully, York Dungeons had invited us to the 2018 launch of York Dungeon Lates, their adult only show, advertised as ruder, scarier and “adultier.” We had visited York Dungeons very recently for the launch of the new Dick Turpin story and show, so just how adultier was Lates going to be?
The first scene seemed to play out the same as it did a few months ago and, although it is brilliant, we did look at each other a little puzzled, expecting a slightly different version for the Lates show. The second scene then also seemed to play out the same as it would on a regular tour, with a few one-liners thrown in but again we found ourselves slightly confused - what was "adultier" about this?
Then we met the plague doctor’s assistant and the innuendos started to fly. The guy playing the assistant was very lively, especially when he got on top of the dead body he was performing an autopsy on. Let’s just say that necrophilia is alive and well in York!
Other scenes played out pretty much unchanged, such as the Golden Fleece and The Night Watchman leading into the Labyrinth, but as we passed into the Torturer, we started to notice more differences, including an extra actor and more interaction with the audience.
And then, something brilliant happened - the Courtroom. This scene usually just has the judge looking down from his/her dock sentencing us but this time we had a veritable double act. What happened next, saw the barrister and the judge playing off against each other while pulling visitors up for sentencing. The scene was genuinely hilarious, with the entire group howling with laughter.
We’ve mentioned that some of the scenes were the same as the daytime show, and we have two points to make here. Yes, "Lates" could have been a lot ruder, and "adultier"if it had wanted to, but it was still extremely enjoyable. We had an absolute blast from beginning to end, and the actors were all completely on point throughout.
We have always enjoyed York Dungeon, and with the addition of the Lates event, it really is worth a visit, by day or by night. There were of course a few surprises on our visit, but you’ll just have to visit, to see it all for yourself!
The first scene seemed to play out the same as it did a few months ago and, although it is brilliant, we did look at each other a little puzzled, expecting a slightly different version for the Lates show. The second scene then also seemed to play out the same as it would on a regular tour, with a few one-liners thrown in but again we found ourselves slightly confused - what was "adultier" about this?
Then we met the plague doctor’s assistant and the innuendos started to fly. The guy playing the assistant was very lively, especially when he got on top of the dead body he was performing an autopsy on. Let’s just say that necrophilia is alive and well in York!
Other scenes played out pretty much unchanged, such as the Golden Fleece and The Night Watchman leading into the Labyrinth, but as we passed into the Torturer, we started to notice more differences, including an extra actor and more interaction with the audience.
And then, something brilliant happened - the Courtroom. This scene usually just has the judge looking down from his/her dock sentencing us but this time we had a veritable double act. What happened next, saw the barrister and the judge playing off against each other while pulling visitors up for sentencing. The scene was genuinely hilarious, with the entire group howling with laughter.
We’ve mentioned that some of the scenes were the same as the daytime show, and we have two points to make here. Yes, "Lates" could have been a lot ruder, and "adultier"if it had wanted to, but it was still extremely enjoyable. We had an absolute blast from beginning to end, and the actors were all completely on point throughout.
We have always enjoyed York Dungeon, and with the addition of the Lates event, it really is worth a visit, by day or by night. There were of course a few surprises on our visit, but you’ll just have to visit, to see it all for yourself!
Review - Halloween 2017 at York Dungeon
While in York, we decided to pop into York Dungeon to see what their Home of Halloween makeover would bring. The attraction has recently seen a whole new show added (see review below), so we imagine there wasn't a huge amount of budget for a new show or experience for the season.
The venue was of course decorated with pumpkins throughout and these glowing jack 'o' lanterns really added a spooky Halloween vibe to our visit. None of the main shows had changed (or had appeared to change) but we still had one of our best runs through in recent years. All the actors were on fine form and really throwing themselves into their roles.
York is one of the smaller UK Dungeon attractions, but always packs a punch whenever we visit. If you haven't experienced it yet - we would definitely say you should add it to your list!
The venue was of course decorated with pumpkins throughout and these glowing jack 'o' lanterns really added a spooky Halloween vibe to our visit. None of the main shows had changed (or had appeared to change) but we still had one of our best runs through in recent years. All the actors were on fine form and really throwing themselves into their roles.
York is one of the smaller UK Dungeon attractions, but always packs a punch whenever we visit. If you haven't experienced it yet - we would definitely say you should add it to your list!
Review - Dick is Back at York Dungeon
A beautiful, sunny, early evening in the historic city of York, with tourists all around enjoying the weather and the stunning scenery. ScareTOUR however, were about to delve deep beneath the streets of York, into the York Dungeon, to witness their latest addition to the show, Dick Turpin. Did we like Dick? Read on and find out.
The evening started with a tour of the regular Dungeon which we were looking forward to as it had been a little while since our last visit. We weren’t disappointed. After a wine reception and meeting the team behind the Dungeon, a group of 16 “peasants” ventured in.
The Dungeon website advertises the scenes you will go through so we don’t have to give too much detail, but, we have to say we laughed and were entertained by the actors all the way through. The Dungeons are a family (if you have brave kids) attraction so, there is a mix of comedy, local history, education, detailed sets and a few scares too. We repented our sins to a strange nun, roared like Vikings, met a flaunty doctors assistant, the executioners assistant couldn’t pronounce names (ral peh huh), the night watchman was cluelessly funny, the judge was relentless and hilarious, the torturer was loud and demanding, the scene in the Golden Fleece pub was very creepy and the witch finder was brilliant.
And in between there was Dick Turpin, the new/old boy. There used to be a scene in York Dungeon where Dick Turpin was hanged; an animatronic prop fell through the roof, so how are York Dungeon retelling the story?
The group boards a stage coach and are met by the coach hand who tells the story of Dick. The coach starts moving and the sound effects make you feel like you are genuinely moving down an old dirt track. Your coach is ultimately going to be held at gun point by the infamous highway man who tries to enter and take your possessions. What then plays out is a clever cinematic scene outside the coach complete with special effects.
And that’s all we can say so we don’t spoil anything. We had a great night and it was good to talk to the team behind this very entertaining event.
The evening started with a tour of the regular Dungeon which we were looking forward to as it had been a little while since our last visit. We weren’t disappointed. After a wine reception and meeting the team behind the Dungeon, a group of 16 “peasants” ventured in.
The Dungeon website advertises the scenes you will go through so we don’t have to give too much detail, but, we have to say we laughed and were entertained by the actors all the way through. The Dungeons are a family (if you have brave kids) attraction so, there is a mix of comedy, local history, education, detailed sets and a few scares too. We repented our sins to a strange nun, roared like Vikings, met a flaunty doctors assistant, the executioners assistant couldn’t pronounce names (ral peh huh), the night watchman was cluelessly funny, the judge was relentless and hilarious, the torturer was loud and demanding, the scene in the Golden Fleece pub was very creepy and the witch finder was brilliant.
And in between there was Dick Turpin, the new/old boy. There used to be a scene in York Dungeon where Dick Turpin was hanged; an animatronic prop fell through the roof, so how are York Dungeon retelling the story?
The group boards a stage coach and are met by the coach hand who tells the story of Dick. The coach starts moving and the sound effects make you feel like you are genuinely moving down an old dirt track. Your coach is ultimately going to be held at gun point by the infamous highway man who tries to enter and take your possessions. What then plays out is a clever cinematic scene outside the coach complete with special effects.
And that’s all we can say so we don’t spoil anything. We had a great night and it was good to talk to the team behind this very entertaining event.
|
|
|
York Dungeon 2016
Ah! riverside settings. There's nothing better than having a prime location on the banks of a river, where you can watch the world go by, feed the ducks on the river and generally enjoy the great British scenery. Well that's true - unless you are the York Dungeon and have just been hit by your second massive flooding in the last 5 years. The last incident closed the dungeon for nearly a year but after the floods of Christmas 2015, the venue has managed to re-open in May 2016, with a number of new scenes and upgrades.
The experience starts with a new show - Fear the Vikings, which takes place in the old monastery, and uses the typical Dungeons humour to warn us 'Saxons' of the dangers of the Vikings. It also serves as a seamless pre-show to the brand new show "Vengeance of the Vikings". We expected a similar show to the old Viking section at the Blackpool Dungeon, abut we were pleasantly surprised by a much larger, more interactive show. Audience participation was obligatory and Snore Shortsword was a great character addition (played by a talented & enthusiastic young actor!)
"Vengeance of the Vikings" then mixed humour and horror in the typical dungeons style, although it probably edged a little more to the horror side in this show (not that we were complaining!) The 3rd show replaced the original "Soothsayer" and prepared us to go into the labyrinth by asking one of us to go look for barrels of gunpowder (we always love it when we get picked!) This led nicely on to the 4th new show, which was "Guy Fawkes" - which has replaced the old Eric Bloodaxe section. This was a projected show similar to the Guy Fawkes show in London and it tells the story of Guy Fawkes' downfall better than the old show, with more humour. The standard of acting, as ever was top notch, absolutely fabulous, and the whole experience flowed a lot smoother and each show seemed to fit perfectly into the next.
After the excitement of all the new shows - the rest of the tour continued with all our favourites of old, including the Courtroom, Execution The Labyrinth and The Golden Fleece. These lower scenes were the ones that had been most flood damaged and we weren't sure whether the "damp" smell and atmosphere was Dungeons magic or genuine following the floods! Each of the final scenes were as lively and exciting as before and all the actors all seemed refreshed and energetic in their roles.
It was great to finally be allowed back inside the York Dungeon and we really hope for their sake that this is the last flooding they experience for a long time. It's nice to see that they have taken the opportunity to add some new scenes during the rebuild and the whole thing has really refreshed the attraction once again.
The experience starts with a new show - Fear the Vikings, which takes place in the old monastery, and uses the typical Dungeons humour to warn us 'Saxons' of the dangers of the Vikings. It also serves as a seamless pre-show to the brand new show "Vengeance of the Vikings". We expected a similar show to the old Viking section at the Blackpool Dungeon, abut we were pleasantly surprised by a much larger, more interactive show. Audience participation was obligatory and Snore Shortsword was a great character addition (played by a talented & enthusiastic young actor!)
"Vengeance of the Vikings" then mixed humour and horror in the typical dungeons style, although it probably edged a little more to the horror side in this show (not that we were complaining!) The 3rd show replaced the original "Soothsayer" and prepared us to go into the labyrinth by asking one of us to go look for barrels of gunpowder (we always love it when we get picked!) This led nicely on to the 4th new show, which was "Guy Fawkes" - which has replaced the old Eric Bloodaxe section. This was a projected show similar to the Guy Fawkes show in London and it tells the story of Guy Fawkes' downfall better than the old show, with more humour. The standard of acting, as ever was top notch, absolutely fabulous, and the whole experience flowed a lot smoother and each show seemed to fit perfectly into the next.
After the excitement of all the new shows - the rest of the tour continued with all our favourites of old, including the Courtroom, Execution The Labyrinth and The Golden Fleece. These lower scenes were the ones that had been most flood damaged and we weren't sure whether the "damp" smell and atmosphere was Dungeons magic or genuine following the floods! Each of the final scenes were as lively and exciting as before and all the actors all seemed refreshed and energetic in their roles.
It was great to finally be allowed back inside the York Dungeon and we really hope for their sake that this is the last flooding they experience for a long time. It's nice to see that they have taken the opportunity to add some new scenes during the rebuild and the whole thing has really refreshed the attraction once again.
Burke and Hare - Bury the Dead - York Dungeon 2015
Like the rest of the UK Dungeon attractions, York Dungeon puts on a new show each October as part of its "Home of Halloween" promotion. The seasonal makeovers can vary in quality, but this Dungeon has added a new show between Dick Turpin and the Witches finale, that could quite easily stay in the whole tour going forward.
The show tells the story of John Hodgson, a local body snatcher who may or may not be following the famous Burke and Hare. With the combination of sudden blackouts, some strobe lighting and a quality script and performance, the show is a fun addition that certainly made a few of the team jump.
Body Snatchers doesn't deliver anything we haven't already seen at other Dungeon attractions but is a fun extra to the standard tour. Add in the really impressive performances from all the York staff across all the scenes, then we had one of the best run throughs we have ever experienced at this location.
The show tells the story of John Hodgson, a local body snatcher who may or may not be following the famous Burke and Hare. With the combination of sudden blackouts, some strobe lighting and a quality script and performance, the show is a fun addition that certainly made a few of the team jump.
Body Snatchers doesn't deliver anything we haven't already seen at other Dungeon attractions but is a fun extra to the standard tour. Add in the really impressive performances from all the York staff across all the scenes, then we had one of the best run throughs we have ever experienced at this location.
Where's Jack - York Dungeon 2014
This summer. the majority of UK Dungeon attractions are joining in with a new Where's Jack storyline. The team have clearly looked further into the history of the Ripper and have tried to find a local spin for all of their shows. Apart from Blackpool and the Castle Dungeon in Warwick, every worldwide Dungeon is participating in this event. We went along to York Dungeon to see their version of the story.
As with most seasonal makeovers, the Where's Jack story is mainly based in one room and after some hints and props in the main queueline, the usual story line commences in Clifford's Tower and continues through to The Golden Fleece pub - the location of the Ghost Of York story.
The room itself has been moved around a bit to facilitate barrels and stools round pub tables. Guests are greeted by a working girl who starts to tell the history of Jack and his possible connection to York. The show is very similar to the Ten Bells pub scene in London Dungeon, and with changes to the music and lighting, has created a lot of new jump scares as the darkness is peppered with sudden strobe lighting effects with appearances by "Jack" throughout the space.
The new show really adds some great scares to the attraction and was probably the highlight of all the shows at this Dungeon. After escaping Jack's clutches we were then ushered down into the Lost Roman Legion Labyrinth and the attraction continued as previously.
The Dungeon seasonal makeovers can sometimes be a bit weak and not make a major impact on storytelling or the experience, but it would seem that the team have a winner on their hands with this show as the biggest audience reaction and screams we had were provided by Jack....
As with most seasonal makeovers, the Where's Jack story is mainly based in one room and after some hints and props in the main queueline, the usual story line commences in Clifford's Tower and continues through to The Golden Fleece pub - the location of the Ghost Of York story.
The room itself has been moved around a bit to facilitate barrels and stools round pub tables. Guests are greeted by a working girl who starts to tell the history of Jack and his possible connection to York. The show is very similar to the Ten Bells pub scene in London Dungeon, and with changes to the music and lighting, has created a lot of new jump scares as the darkness is peppered with sudden strobe lighting effects with appearances by "Jack" throughout the space.
The new show really adds some great scares to the attraction and was probably the highlight of all the shows at this Dungeon. After escaping Jack's clutches we were then ushered down into the Lost Roman Legion Labyrinth and the attraction continued as previously.
The Dungeon seasonal makeovers can sometimes be a bit weak and not make a major impact on storytelling or the experience, but it would seem that the team have a winner on their hands with this show as the biggest audience reaction and screams we had were provided by Jack....
Tyrannical Tudors
Having recently had a complete revamp following extensive flood damage in 2012, this year sees the launch of Tyrannical Tudors - a new show featuring the infamous King Henry VIII
Taking refuge in a church we are soon told the background of Henry's campaign to take over the English Church and the barbaric nature by which he set out to do this. Without any warning - it became clear that Henry was approaching and the church we were in was besieged from all sides by his army.
What followed was a combination of special effects and audience interaction designed to make it feel like we were being attacked from the outside. The impressive stained glass windows we noted when we first entered, suddenly smashed and collapsed, while knives poked through the church doors as we were encouraged to feel the walls looking for a secret passage way to escape. It was fun and slightly different to the usual Dungeon shows as it felt that we were all more involved and not just one victim as is often the case. Certainly some of the easier scared members of our group, jumped several times when the effects were triggered and looked like they were panicking that they couldn't get out.
As one of the opening scenes in the whole experience, it certainly sets guests up for the rest of their tour through York's dark history. Our only possible complaint? We never actually got to see Henry himself!
Taking refuge in a church we are soon told the background of Henry's campaign to take over the English Church and the barbaric nature by which he set out to do this. Without any warning - it became clear that Henry was approaching and the church we were in was besieged from all sides by his army.
What followed was a combination of special effects and audience interaction designed to make it feel like we were being attacked from the outside. The impressive stained glass windows we noted when we first entered, suddenly smashed and collapsed, while knives poked through the church doors as we were encouraged to feel the walls looking for a secret passage way to escape. It was fun and slightly different to the usual Dungeon shows as it felt that we were all more involved and not just one victim as is often the case. Certainly some of the easier scared members of our group, jumped several times when the effects were triggered and looked like they were panicking that they couldn't get out.
As one of the opening scenes in the whole experience, it certainly sets guests up for the rest of their tour through York's dark history. Our only possible complaint? We never actually got to see Henry himself!
York Dungeon Halloween 2013
Like the other UK Dungeon attractions, The York Dungeon branded itself as The Home of Halloween for the festive season and promised a lavish new pumpkin-filled Halloween production,
The new Halloween show transported us to Samhain in Halloween night in 47AD, a time when the ancient Celts believed that the ghosts of the ancients, could rise and walk amongst the living. Along the way we met Vevila, a new character, but her show seemed rushed and a bit out of place. After a hurried speech we were soon thrust back into the normal show, as if nothing had really happened. It was almost like they didn't want to interrupt the regular schedule!
Scattered around the venue were a number of pumpkins to help with the festivites but nothing as elaborate or impressive as we had seen at London Dungeon previously. With that and the slightly lacklustre new character and show we thought that the "Home of Halloween" claim felt a bit shallow.
Taking the Dungeon experience as a total package we still really enjoyed our visit to York, but it was the strength of the existing scenes that created a good visit (especially as they still feel fresh after being rebuilt due to the flooding of last year)
The new Halloween show transported us to Samhain in Halloween night in 47AD, a time when the ancient Celts believed that the ghosts of the ancients, could rise and walk amongst the living. Along the way we met Vevila, a new character, but her show seemed rushed and a bit out of place. After a hurried speech we were soon thrust back into the normal show, as if nothing had really happened. It was almost like they didn't want to interrupt the regular schedule!
Scattered around the venue were a number of pumpkins to help with the festivites but nothing as elaborate or impressive as we had seen at London Dungeon previously. With that and the slightly lacklustre new character and show we thought that the "Home of Halloween" claim felt a bit shallow.
Taking the Dungeon experience as a total package we still really enjoyed our visit to York, but it was the strength of the existing scenes that created a good visit (especially as they still feel fresh after being rebuilt due to the flooding of last year)
York Dungeon Reopening 2013
On the 26th Sept 2012, following days of torrential downpours, the River Ouse in York spilled its banks and the city was engulfed with water. Sadly the York Dungeon took the brunt of the smelly dirty river water and the venue was soon flooded, with actors trudging out of the attraction knee deep in mucky and grime. The management believed it would take just a few days to reopen but once the waters had subsided the true extent of the damage became apparent. In fact, it was deemed so bad that it was decided to close down for a full 6 months.
Fast forward to the end of March 2013 and with a £2m rebuild and makeover, it was time to see what fiendish tricks they had in-store for the unsuspecting public.The first thing that struck us as we arrived was that York had joined London and Edinburgh with the new branding and tag line 'fear is a funny thing'. Speaking outside to a not so happy jester it was explained that the new concept was a marketing change of direction but that we should still expect to be scared once inside!
We started our tour in the darkened waiting room of Clifford's Tower, which then lead us onto to all the scenes and tricks we have come to expect from the Dungeon brand. Apart from the unfinished Dick Turpin scene, our tour consisted of some firm favourites, some new characters, and plenty of subtle script and effects changes throughout. In fact we were enjoying the changes so much it was a shame that the Judge's scene remained identical to previously. Fortunately this was compensated for by the strong characterisation the actors put into their roles. Some of the other highlights along the way included a very effective new surprise in the torturer's room and a technical upgrade in the Golden Fleece pub with a very subtle but wonderful peppers ghost effect. The new scenes and characters settled in snugly into the new layout and the whole 70 minutes tour was full of jumps, jokes and some good old toilet humour!
The sets look fantastic and with a totally new layout and new props the attraction feels new and fresh again. It also helps that all the the actors have more theatrical and grander costumes which are far nicer (in a sinister way!) than the old ones.
As we ran out of the last scene to escape the grasps of the witch catcher straight into the gift shop, we could stop and digest the whole new experience. It all seems so much more theatrical now than the old show, and if the actors can keep up the wonderful performances we experienced on press night, then it should get nothing but good reviews when it opens to the general public on Friday. We can't wait to go back and try it again!
Fast forward to the end of March 2013 and with a £2m rebuild and makeover, it was time to see what fiendish tricks they had in-store for the unsuspecting public.The first thing that struck us as we arrived was that York had joined London and Edinburgh with the new branding and tag line 'fear is a funny thing'. Speaking outside to a not so happy jester it was explained that the new concept was a marketing change of direction but that we should still expect to be scared once inside!
We started our tour in the darkened waiting room of Clifford's Tower, which then lead us onto to all the scenes and tricks we have come to expect from the Dungeon brand. Apart from the unfinished Dick Turpin scene, our tour consisted of some firm favourites, some new characters, and plenty of subtle script and effects changes throughout. In fact we were enjoying the changes so much it was a shame that the Judge's scene remained identical to previously. Fortunately this was compensated for by the strong characterisation the actors put into their roles. Some of the other highlights along the way included a very effective new surprise in the torturer's room and a technical upgrade in the Golden Fleece pub with a very subtle but wonderful peppers ghost effect. The new scenes and characters settled in snugly into the new layout and the whole 70 minutes tour was full of jumps, jokes and some good old toilet humour!
The sets look fantastic and with a totally new layout and new props the attraction feels new and fresh again. It also helps that all the the actors have more theatrical and grander costumes which are far nicer (in a sinister way!) than the old ones.
As we ran out of the last scene to escape the grasps of the witch catcher straight into the gift shop, we could stop and digest the whole new experience. It all seems so much more theatrical now than the old show, and if the actors can keep up the wonderful performances we experienced on press night, then it should get nothing but good reviews when it opens to the general public on Friday. We can't wait to go back and try it again!
York Dungeon 2012
We visit York Dungeon on a regular basis and there's always something new and exciting to experience. Over the last few years we have encountered new shows around Vikings, Witches and Gladiators but what would be find for 2012?
The first change for this year is the new and improved Labyrinth of the Lost. With new effects throughout, the mirror maze is still quite small but managed to keep everyone on their guard as we tested each passageway, afraid of what would be waiting round the corner. The addition of the new surprises and animatronics left us all jumping several times and some of the more more easily scared members of our group were genuinely terrified!
The big new show though is Execution: Traitors of York. As guests we were invited to watch a public execution but in usual Dungeon style, something went awry. As chaos broke out in the well themed room we were assaulted with lashings of gore, some fun and amusing dialogue and a shocking climax that managed to startle everyone in the room.
the show itself is great fun complements existing shows such as Witches: Burned Alive, Bloody Vikings and Ghosts of York (still one of our favourote shows at York due to the clever interaction of the actor and the use of darkness).
The first change for this year is the new and improved Labyrinth of the Lost. With new effects throughout, the mirror maze is still quite small but managed to keep everyone on their guard as we tested each passageway, afraid of what would be waiting round the corner. The addition of the new surprises and animatronics left us all jumping several times and some of the more more easily scared members of our group were genuinely terrified!
The big new show though is Execution: Traitors of York. As guests we were invited to watch a public execution but in usual Dungeon style, something went awry. As chaos broke out in the well themed room we were assaulted with lashings of gore, some fun and amusing dialogue and a shocking climax that managed to startle everyone in the room.
the show itself is great fun complements existing shows such as Witches: Burned Alive, Bloody Vikings and Ghosts of York (still one of our favourote shows at York due to the clever interaction of the actor and the use of darkness).
York Dungeon 2010
When we last visited York Dungeon, we commented on how well it stood up against its larger brother down in London. Lacking any rides, the attraction makes up for that with a tightly packed tour of some of the best bits of York’s violent history and a few unique scares along the way.
What surprised us the most this year is that many of the exhibits have been swapped around and are now visited in a different order and this has certainly refreshed their presentation. For example – Guy Fawkes was originally one of the last scenes and, although factual – was quite a let down as it slowed the proceedings. Now placed in a smaller chamber near the start of the tour, it proved to be fascinating as well as gruesome. Maybe when they moved the models they cleaned them up a bit but the tortured Guy Fawkes model with his innards spilling everywhere looked VERY realistic and “wet”!
Through each show, the actors interact well with guests and their delivery always remains on the humorous side while they gently mock their victims. And it seems everyone gets a chance – from plague victims, defendants in the dock through to torture victims, there’s a real equal opportunities scheme here – NO-one is safe!
Finally we come to this year’s new scene – Witches Burned Alive. Technically this show starts identically to the Bloody Mary in London with a “witch” being chosen from the crowd and strapped to a funeral pyre for burning. What worked well though, were some extended periods of blackness that the actor was able to use to move around the set unseen and surprise and startle guests. Using the same techniques as the Ghosts of York show, a good few jumps are created even before the fire is lit.
The burning and the “final reveal” remain the same but then York has one final trick up its sleeve. As the room descends into darkness, we are all sentenced to the same terrible fate and an extra effect occurs that surprised everyone and really left us feeling like we were surrounded by fire. Having experienced this – the London show will never be the same again!
Having experienced York Dungeons 2 years in a row, it was amazing how fresh the whole experience felt. This is partly due to the moving around of scenes but also due to the amazing acting talent working there. All characters really appeared to be enjoying their roles and the extra “flourishes” each of them added to the usual scripts were both clever and very entertaining. Having been judged as the accused in the court scene “many” times at various Dungeons, this visit was truly hysterical. His historical jibes mixed with broad topical and pop culture references had everyone in stitches especially as he made a grown man mince round the dock while singing “My milkshake brings all the boys to the yard”. Crude at times, definitely a bit non pc, but the Dungeon gets away with it as they do it with such style!
Talking to the attraction manager afterwards, it’s obviously clear that they are justifiably proud of their attraction and they are already looking forward to what they can add or change in the future. That’s probably the biggest beauty of the Dungeon attractions, they do constantly evolve and you know that on each visit there should be a least one new thing to experience.
What surprised us the most this year is that many of the exhibits have been swapped around and are now visited in a different order and this has certainly refreshed their presentation. For example – Guy Fawkes was originally one of the last scenes and, although factual – was quite a let down as it slowed the proceedings. Now placed in a smaller chamber near the start of the tour, it proved to be fascinating as well as gruesome. Maybe when they moved the models they cleaned them up a bit but the tortured Guy Fawkes model with his innards spilling everywhere looked VERY realistic and “wet”!
Through each show, the actors interact well with guests and their delivery always remains on the humorous side while they gently mock their victims. And it seems everyone gets a chance – from plague victims, defendants in the dock through to torture victims, there’s a real equal opportunities scheme here – NO-one is safe!
Finally we come to this year’s new scene – Witches Burned Alive. Technically this show starts identically to the Bloody Mary in London with a “witch” being chosen from the crowd and strapped to a funeral pyre for burning. What worked well though, were some extended periods of blackness that the actor was able to use to move around the set unseen and surprise and startle guests. Using the same techniques as the Ghosts of York show, a good few jumps are created even before the fire is lit.
The burning and the “final reveal” remain the same but then York has one final trick up its sleeve. As the room descends into darkness, we are all sentenced to the same terrible fate and an extra effect occurs that surprised everyone and really left us feeling like we were surrounded by fire. Having experienced this – the London show will never be the same again!
Having experienced York Dungeons 2 years in a row, it was amazing how fresh the whole experience felt. This is partly due to the moving around of scenes but also due to the amazing acting talent working there. All characters really appeared to be enjoying their roles and the extra “flourishes” each of them added to the usual scripts were both clever and very entertaining. Having been judged as the accused in the court scene “many” times at various Dungeons, this visit was truly hysterical. His historical jibes mixed with broad topical and pop culture references had everyone in stitches especially as he made a grown man mince round the dock while singing “My milkshake brings all the boys to the yard”. Crude at times, definitely a bit non pc, but the Dungeon gets away with it as they do it with such style!
Talking to the attraction manager afterwards, it’s obviously clear that they are justifiably proud of their attraction and they are already looking forward to what they can add or change in the future. That’s probably the biggest beauty of the Dungeon attractions, they do constantly evolve and you know that on each visit there should be a least one new thing to experience.
York Dungeon 2009
It is a fair assessment to say that if you have done one Dungeon attraction, then in each new one you visit after that there will be scenes and stories that are very similar. These core scenes (such as the torture room, the autopsy and the court room) are genuine crowd pleasers and it’s always interesting to see how different attractions and actors put their own spin on the tales and script.
Then there are the shows which use similar techniques and effects but to tell completely different stories. For example, Dick Turpin in York and Sweeny Todd in London.
Then you have the completely unique attractions which stand out as special to those particular venues. Extremis at London used to be unique but is now being rolled out to a number of different Dungeons, but at the moment – the Bloody Vikings exhibit is exclusive to York only.
Based around York’s violent Viking heritage, the Dungeon is deliberately marketing this as an exhibit to show the true bloodthirsty nature of the rampaging Vikings when they hit England hundreds of years ago.
Attraction manager Helen Douglas says of the attraction “Vikings are an integral part of York’s history, but unlike other York attractions, The York Dungeon wants to show what the Vikings were really like. They were rampant, savage killers who would stop at nothing to vanquish the Saxons and seize their land.”
And bloody it is! The introductory video was covered in the red stuff and once hoarded into the forest to face the Viking King, we were left with no illusion that we were going to get out alive!
Described by Ailsa Easton, Creative Director at Merlin Studios, as “one of the most technologically advanced attractions we have done”, the elaborate scene includes sudden scares, moving props, projection effects, noise and a startling finale that certainly made us jump. Oh yes and a liberal dosing of blood!
Elsewhere in the Dungeon, were other fun scenes including a tiny mirror maze that was probably the least effective of the current Dungeon mazes and a quite slow (but factually very interesting) presentation on Guy Fawkes and his plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament.
As you would expect, the attention to detail and theming in each scene helps to create the atmosphere and it is amazing how quickly you forget that you are just in a big red-brick building on the banks of the river! Also, as you would expect there are a few little things to make you jump along the way!
The acting talent through all scenes were really on top form and were throwing themselves into their roles with gusto. Praise should be made of the host for ‘Ghosts of York” who was able to use the periods of sudden darkness to move quickly unnoticed around the room, looking like he was disappearing and appearing like a ghost. The sudden effects and movements in this whole scene were very impressive and created a very eerie atmosphere.
Having completed the whole experience we were impressed with just how tight the whole attraction felt. Priced at significantly less than its London counterpart we actually enjoyed York more than its big brother down South.
So if you are in vicinity it is definitely worth checking out the Dungeon and seeing for yourself what those Bloody Vikings are capable of!
Then there are the shows which use similar techniques and effects but to tell completely different stories. For example, Dick Turpin in York and Sweeny Todd in London.
Then you have the completely unique attractions which stand out as special to those particular venues. Extremis at London used to be unique but is now being rolled out to a number of different Dungeons, but at the moment – the Bloody Vikings exhibit is exclusive to York only.
Based around York’s violent Viking heritage, the Dungeon is deliberately marketing this as an exhibit to show the true bloodthirsty nature of the rampaging Vikings when they hit England hundreds of years ago.
Attraction manager Helen Douglas says of the attraction “Vikings are an integral part of York’s history, but unlike other York attractions, The York Dungeon wants to show what the Vikings were really like. They were rampant, savage killers who would stop at nothing to vanquish the Saxons and seize their land.”
And bloody it is! The introductory video was covered in the red stuff and once hoarded into the forest to face the Viking King, we were left with no illusion that we were going to get out alive!
Described by Ailsa Easton, Creative Director at Merlin Studios, as “one of the most technologically advanced attractions we have done”, the elaborate scene includes sudden scares, moving props, projection effects, noise and a startling finale that certainly made us jump. Oh yes and a liberal dosing of blood!
Elsewhere in the Dungeon, were other fun scenes including a tiny mirror maze that was probably the least effective of the current Dungeon mazes and a quite slow (but factually very interesting) presentation on Guy Fawkes and his plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament.
As you would expect, the attention to detail and theming in each scene helps to create the atmosphere and it is amazing how quickly you forget that you are just in a big red-brick building on the banks of the river! Also, as you would expect there are a few little things to make you jump along the way!
The acting talent through all scenes were really on top form and were throwing themselves into their roles with gusto. Praise should be made of the host for ‘Ghosts of York” who was able to use the periods of sudden darkness to move quickly unnoticed around the room, looking like he was disappearing and appearing like a ghost. The sudden effects and movements in this whole scene were very impressive and created a very eerie atmosphere.
Having completed the whole experience we were impressed with just how tight the whole attraction felt. Priced at significantly less than its London counterpart we actually enjoyed York more than its big brother down South.
So if you are in vicinity it is definitely worth checking out the Dungeon and seeing for yourself what those Bloody Vikings are capable of!
Links:
Scare Review
Have you also visited this or any other attractions recently? - tell us what you thought here
|
All the latest news, stories, review and gossip can be found on the ScareTOUR social media pages - the hottest presence in the UK for Scare Attractions! |
|
|
|