Private Prison Van Escape Game – London Immersive Experience

A Fun Twist on London Activities: The Private Prison Van Escape Game

If you’re browsing for something a bit different during your time in London, the Private Prison Van Escape Game at Bunker 51 might catch your eye. This experience offers a unique blend of escape room thrill and urban adventure, all packed into a compact 1.5-hour session. It’s not the typical sightseeing tour—think of it as a playful break to stretch your brain and have a good laugh.

What we like most about this experience is its quick pace and accessibility. First, it’s perfect if your schedule is tight but you still want a memorable activity. Second, the theme and setting are genuinely engaging—you’re transported into a gritty, prison-van scenario that feels surprisingly authentic. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that it’s a rather short experience, which might leave some craving more puzzle-solving or story depth.

This tour is well-suited for groups looking for something interactive and energetic—families, friends, or even colleagues wanting a team-building activity. If you love puzzles, themed adventures, or just want to do something different from the usual London sightseeing, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Accessible and Time-Efficient: At just around 90 minutes, it fits easily into a busy day.
• Authentic Setting: You start locked in a real ex-police prisoner transport van, adding to the thrill.
• Themed Experience: You wear prison-orange attire and get cuffed, immersing you fully in the scenario.
• Memorable Photos: A team photo is included, offering a fun keepsake after the escape.
• Private Group: Only your booked group participates, so it’s tailored and personalized.
• Price vs. Value: At about $44.58 per person, it offers a fun, story-driven activity without breaking the bank.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

When you arrive at Bunker 51, plan to get there at least 30 minutes early. That gives you time to sign in and listen to a themed briefing that sets the tone for what’s to come. The staff are described as friendly and helpful, making the entire process smooth from the start.

Once your group is ready, you’ll be led to the authentic prison van—a real ex-police prisoner transport van that’s been transformed into your obstacle course. The atmosphere is deliberately intense but playful, and you’ll be dressed in classic prison-orange jumpsuits to heighten the immersion.

Your main task? Solve clues and riddles scattered throughout the van to find a way out within 60 minutes. The experience is designed to be challenging but accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of participants. Expect to be locked in the van and cuffed, a souvenir of the role-play, but all in good fun.

Once you manage to escape, or if the time runs out, everyone gets a team photo emailed afterward. It’s a nice touch—something to remember the laughs and the teamwork.

The Actual Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Meeting Details

The adventure begins at Bunker 51, located at 3 Herringham Rd, London SE7 8NJ. The start time is flexible with several options to choose from, fitting into most itineraries. The activity ends back where it began, making logistics straightforward.

Duration and Group Size

Clocking in at roughly 1 hour 30 minutes, the tour is short but sweet. Because it’s a privately booked activity, only your group will participate, which means the pace and experience are tailored just for you.

Accessibility and Practicalities

Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, so it’s accessible to many. The activity is near public transportation, easing your travel plans. It’s a mobile ticket, which means no fuss with paper tickets—just show your confirmation on arrival.

Price Point and Value

At $44.58 per person, this experience offers a decent value for an engaging and themed activity. When comparing it to other London excursions, it’s not overly expensive, especially if you consider it as a fun, brief break from sightseeing rather than a full-day tour.

Customer Experience and Feedback

With an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 from 15 reviews, most travelers seem quite satisfied. One reviewer called it an “amazing experience” and mentioned that their whole family enjoyed it. Staff received praise for being friendly and helpful, which can make all the difference during a themed activity.

Some reviews highlight the stunning views within the experience—though mostly it’s about the fun of solving clues and the authenticity of the setting. The fact that it’s well-reviewed and booked in advance (average 39 days ahead) suggests it’s quite popular.

Possible Downsides

The main thing to keep in mind is that this is a short, intense experience. If you’re craving a deeper storyline or more elaborate puzzles, this may feel a bit limited. Also, since the activity is non-refundable and cannot be changed, it’s best to confirm your schedule before booking.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is best suited for those looking for a quick, fun activity that’s different from the usual sightseeing. It’s great for groups of friends, couples, or families who want a bit of adventure and some good laughs. It’s also ideal if you enjoy puzzles, role-play, or themed scenarios.

If you’re in London for a short stay or want an activity that’s easy to squeeze into your day, this escape game offers a playful break. However, if you’re after a more comprehensive or story-heavy experience, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The Private Prison Van Escape Game at Bunker 51 is a well-rated, engaging way to spend some time in London. Its authenticity, quick pace, and fun theme make it an appealing choice for those wanting a break from traditional sightseeing. The experience balances excitement with accessibility, making it a good pick for a wide range of travelers.

While it’s short and not overly complex, the immersive details like the prison jumpsuits and authentic transport van really set the tone. Plus, the included team photo adds a nice touch, giving you something to remember the day by. It’s not a full-day adventure, but for what it offers, you’ll likely find it worth the price and a memorable highlight of your trip.

If you’re after a lively, interactive activity that sparks teamwork and a few laughs, this escape game could be just what you’re looking for in London.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the activity involves being cuffed and locked in a van, which might be intense for very young children. Consider your group’s comfort with role-play scenarios and themes.

How early should I arrive?
All participants are asked to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled start time to sign in and receive a themed briefing.

Can I choose my start time?
Yes, several start times are available so you can pick one that best fits your schedule.

What does the experience include?
You’ll be locked in an ex-police prisoner transport van, dressed in prison-orange attire, and will need to solve clues to escape within 60 minutes. A team photo is included afterward.

Is this a private activity?
Yes, only your group participates, making it a personalized experience.

How long does the activity last?
The total time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including check-in and briefing.

What’s the price per person?
It costs about $44.58 per person, which includes the themed escape experience and the team photo.

Is the ticket booking process complicated?
Not at all. It’s a mobile ticket, and confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The experience is near public transportation, making access easier.

If you’re ready for a quick, fun, and slightly nerve-wracking escape challenge in London, this experience could be just the ticket. It’s perfect for those wanting a memorable, themed adventure without a huge time commitment.