The Tower of London is one of London’s most popular historical landmarks and attracts tourists from all over the world. But a lesser-known attraction at the popular destination is the Gunpowder Plot Immersive Experience, located in the Tower Vaults, which takes you back to 1605.
I traveled through the vaults where conspirators were imprisoned and it was an exciting adventure. I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect, but it was a really fun way to learn about the history of London and exceeded my expectations.
After entering a traditional style bar and putting away my belongings, my group was led down to begin the journey as prisoners. Right from the start when darkness fell and an ominous voice explained who we were and what we were going to do there was a wave of excitement.
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As we ventured through dark tunnels we were met by a fellow prisoner. This first meeting with an actor was very theatrical and I felt like a front row spectator to a very scripted production.
But as we continued through the archway and actors nonchalantly interacted with us, I became more and more immersed. You can get as involved as you want or not, and when I was first asked my name I thought “what have I gotten myself into”.
But the casual conversation with the cast really felt like we were in the vaults with them. As conspirators new to Santa, I was made to guard a door and told to “knock someone out” if they came around the corner, and the fear of someone jumping out at me from that point forward never went away.
It was a lot more fun than I expected, because the actors kept breaking from script conversation with all of us, specifically to break up every time I jumped unnecessarily. Without spoiling too much, the story is told with layered reality including actors, sets, multi-sensory effects and VR.
The virtual reality adds another element to place you in the story. At one point, you even dangle above the tower for a nice ride.
Throughout, you are made to hide, rush through the tunnels and crack codes. Even though you are aware that nothing will happen, the little anxiety and fun that was created was brilliant. We also got coats and I felt like I was living out my The Traitors fantasy.
As a group you also decide your fate and how the end of the “plot” works so it felt like the experience was really fulfilling with us. It’s not something that would ever be at the top of my London to-do list as a 23-year-old, but it was a fun experience for my friend and I.
I left with such a buzz from all the built up anticipation and laughed right. It is definitely something I would recommend to anyone who wants to see another layer of the London we know so well. It’s perfect for all ages, with both kids and adults having a great time.
The bar at the start and the fictional Duck and Drake pub (traditionally located on the 1605 Beach) midway also serve plenty of themed cocktails and refreshments, but be prepared to knock them down quickly before being led back to the world of 1605.
You can buy tickets for the immersive Gunpowder Plot directly from the organizers or from Fever.
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