Private Prison Van Escape Game – London Immersive Experience

London’s Prison Van Escape Game: A Unique Twist on Escape Rooms

Looking for an escape room with a twist? The Private Prison Van Escape Game at Bunker 51 is a captivating experience that combines the thrill of solving riddles with the thrill of being inside an authentic police transport van. It’s a lively, engaging activity perfect for those who enjoy puzzles, immersive storytelling, and a bit of adrenaline—especially if the weather isn’t cooperating.

What immediately draws us in is the authenticity of the setting—you’re actually locked inside a real police prisoner transport van, which adds an element of realism that many escape rooms can’t match. Plus, with the option to book private groups, you get a more tailored, less crowded experience.

However, because the experience is relatively short—about an hour and a half—you’ll want to go in with the right expectations. It’s more of a quick, fun adventure than a lengthy, in-depth puzzle marathon. It’s also worth noting that this experience works best for those comfortable with some physical activity and who aren’t claustrophobic, given the confined space of the van.

This tour is ideal for friends, family, or small groups looking for a lively, interactive activity that’s easy to fit into a busy London itinerary. If you’re after a memorable story to tell and like a challenge wrapped in a bit of theatrical fun, you’ll probably enjoy this escape game.

Key Points

• Authentic Setting: You’re locked inside a real police prisoner transport van, not just a themed room.
• Time-efficient: The experience lasts roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes, perfect for a quick break.
• Private Group: Only your group participates, ensuring a more personalized adventure.
• Challenging Riddles and Clues: Expect to solve puzzles that could lead to your escape—or face an extra 8 years on your “sentence.”
• Themed Attire: Participants don prison-orange outfits and get cuffed for added realism.
• Memorable Photos: A team photo is included as a souvenir, which adds a nice touch.

The Experience: What to Expect from Beginning to End

From the moment you arrive, punctuality is key. The meeting point at Bunker 51, located at 3 Herringham Rd in London, is well-connected by public transit, making it accessible for most travelers. Staff recommend arriving 30 minutes early to sign in, get your briefing, and don the prison-themed costumes.

The briefing, which sets the scene, is crucial. You’ll learn that your group has been caught and is being transported to serve a life sentence at Pentonville Prison. Then, suddenly, you’re locked inside the actual police van, which has been transformed into an immersive puzzle space. The sense of being genuinely confined in a real transportation vehicle adds a layer of intensity that’s rare in traditional escape rooms.

Once inside, your task is to solve a series of clues and riddles over the course of about an hour. The puzzles are designed to be engaging but not impossible, with reviews indicating that staff are helpful if you get stuck. The real challenge is to find the key to escape before your “sentence” is extended by 8 years—adding a humorous yet tense element to the activity.

The clues are cleverly integrated into the environment, and the realism of the setting keeps adrenaline levels high. A favorite detail from reviews is how the staff, including guides like Jon and Hayden, make the experience enjoyable with their friendly attitude and clear instructions.

After the escape attempt, a team photo is taken, which is emailed afterward. Travelers have mentioned that the photos serve as fun keepsakes, reminding them of their quick-witted teamwork in a genuinely novel setting.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The experience is a private activity, meaning only your group will participate, which enhances the feeling of exclusivity. The ticket price is around $44.58 per person, which offers good value considering the uniqueness of the setting and the fun of the puzzles.

Timing is flexible, with multiple start times available throughout the day. This flexibility makes it easy to slot into a busy sightseeing schedule. The entire session lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, including briefing and debriefing.

The venue, Bunker 51, is near public transport, making it simple for most travelers to reach. Since it’s a mobile ticket, you can skip the queues and head straight in. The activity is suitable for most travelers, with service animals permitted, and it’s designed so that most participants can take part.

The experience is non-refundable, so it’s best to double-check your schedule before booking, but the reviews suggest that those who’ve participated generally find it worth the cost and time.

What Reviewers Say

One of the most praised aspects was the authenticity of the environment. Ben_C shared that the experience was “amazing,” emphasizing how much the entire family enjoyed it. The staff’s friendliness and helpfulness were also highlighted, making the activity flow smoothly.

Reviewers have noted the stunning views from the exterior of the van and the overall immersive feel, which elevates the game beyond a typical escape room. The slightly shorter duration was seen as a bonus for those looking for a quick but impactful activity.

Some reviewers did mention that the activity can be intense for those uncomfortable with tight spaces, so it’s worth considering if claustrophobia is a concern. But for most, the authentic transport van, combined with the puzzles, provides a memorable, humorous challenge.

The Sum Up

The Private Prison Van Escape Game at Bunker 51 offers a distinctive blend of puzzle-solving, role-play, and real-life setting that makes it stand out among London’s many escape experiences. Its value lies in the authenticity of the environment, the private group setting, and the engaging, fast-paced nature of the activity.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a challenge, have a sense of adventure, and want a break from typical sightseeing. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate quirky, themed experiences that create stories worth sharing.

While it may not suit everyone—particularly those uncomfortable in confined spaces—it offers an authentic, fun, and slightly adrenaline-pumping escape that’s unlikely to be forgotten. For an unconventional, memorable activity that combines story, puzzles, and a bit of theatrical fun, this experience is a solid choice.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the experience involves being in a confined space and wearing prison attire, so it’s best for older children or teenagers comfortable with similar environments.

How long does the experience last?
The total activity takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including a briefing and the escape challenge.

Can I book at my preferred time?
Yes, multiple start times are available, and booking 39 days in advance on average helps secure your preferred slot.

Is the experience private?
Yes, only your group will participate, making the activity more personalized and exclusive.

What is the price and does it include anything extra?
The ticket costs $44.58 per person, which includes the activity, a themed briefing, costumes, and a team photo afterward.

Is it accessible for most travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are permitted, but if you have specific needs, it’s best to contact the provider directly.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress comfortably; you’ll be given prison-orange attire and cuffs, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing suitable for some physical movement.

This lively, immersive activity offers a fresh way to experience London with a fun challenge and a story you’ll remember. Whether you’re a puzzle enthusiast or just looking for something different, the Prison Van Escape Game delivers a memorable slice of adventure in the city.