This is one of those games where you will play and then want to play again just to go back and see what you missed. Every single item in this game has been hand-crafted for the world they have created and the attention to detail is incredible
Company Name
Museum of Intrigue (Syracuse, NY, USA)
I am not sure I’ve ever had this much fun at the mall, not even when I was 5. If you’re looking for something a little bit different, but totally fantastic, to do in Syracuse, you should look no further than The Museum of Intrigue.
The Real Escape: The Western Job (Portsmouth)
I can see why people praise this game. It’s got good set design and the puzzles all make sense. The little ‘extra’ at the end also gives enthusiasts something to aim for, and I’m sure this would be a hit for players of all ages.
Clue Cracker: Mega Bite (Tunbridge Wells)
Clue Cracker keep pushing themselves with each game they release. Grab the family, grab your friends, grab a random person off the street – whoever you play this game with, you’ll have fun – guaranteed.
The Lift Escape Rooms: The Lift Shaft (Brighton)
If you’re looking for a hardcore puzzling session in Brighton, this probably isn’t the game for you. However, if you’re looking for a space filler, a warm up, or an introduction to escape rooms, then this certainly would fit the bill.
Escape Reading: The Ram Raid (Reading)
I can see why Ram Raid is an enthusiast’s favourite. There is a lot to do in this game, but you don’t have to do it all to be successful. This game will likely keep you locked up for most of the 60 minutes, and you’ll be non-stop running around solving some quality puzzles.
Escape Reading: Kidnapped (Reading)
I’d probably class this as quite a traditional escape room, with some traditional but satisfying puzzles. It starts off dark but soon lightens up and becomes a fun place to explore.
Escape Reading: The Vampire Slayers (Reading)
This wasn’t the hardest or scariest of games, but all the puzzles clicked and we flew through it. Probably not a challenging room for experienced players, but it was a solid and fun game that we were glad to have played
Exit 60: Banged Up (Newport)
Despite being a very much ‘done’ theme, Banged Up managed to avoid a lot of the clichés and provided just the right level of whimsy for some good light-hearted fun. We weren’t in this game for a long time (completed it in less than 25 minutes), but we will remember our time fondly.
Way Out: Ice Tiki (Athens)
I would love to play Ice Tiki again, even though we know how to solve the puzzles, the experience was just amazing. The time we spent in this game was like one big party and it was the perfect end to our holiday. Please please please can we get more games like this in the world!
G-Factor Group: The 7 Mysteries of Pharaoh (Athens)
We played this game on a whim and we’re glad we did. There was nothing mind-blowingly special about it, but it had fun puzzles, some cool tech, and a clear ending – although that ending could easily be improved with just a few minor tweaks.
G-Factor Group: Freedom for Sale (Athens)
I’m not a huge fan of prison rooms in general but this one felt just a bit too rough around the edges. We spent more time being frustrated and lost in this room than we did having fun. It’s nice it is available in English now, but it’s not one that we’d recommend to others.
G-Factor Group: Through the Mirror (Athens)
This game was a surprise of our Athens trip. I wasn’t expecting much, but, thanks to its original set and puzzles, it was a joy to play. I would have liked there to have been more to it or perhaps a stronger ending, but this game just went back to the main reason we play escape rooms: fun.
Coven Escape: Woman In Black (Athens)
I feel bad for Woman in Black as we played it the day after we had played Chapel and Catacombs so it perhaps didn’t wow us as much as it really should have. But it in its own right, it is still an incredible game with a huge set that I really enjoyed.
The Art of Escape: Lilipout (Athens)
We really wanted to like this game, but instead it was our least favourite game of all the ones we played in Athens. It had potential thanks to the fun set design, but due to poor puzzles and a lack of signposting it is not a game we’ll be recommending anytime soon.
Lockhill: The Sanitorium (Midnight mode) (Athens)
This entire experience truly felt like we were in a live adaptation of a Resident Evil or Silent Hill video game. It. Was. Incredible.
Lockhill: Chapel and Catacombs (Athens)
In a city full of world-class escape rooms, Chapel and Catacombs stands out and was nothing short of incredible. I guess there’s a reason why it’s currently ranked by enthusiasts as the #1 game in the world. While I hate to add to the hype if I were asked, “What should I play in Athens if I only have time for one game?” There is no question, it would be this one.
Station 33: Wake Up (Athens)
Wake Up was a visually impressive experience and I can see why horror aficionados love it. I think we had been spoiled by other experiences so this one didn’t grip us as much as it possibly should have, but it is still a game we will likely never forget.
Exit Plan: The Dark Side of the Elements (Athens)
I think if this game was in the UK it would probably be more impressive, but it’s surrounded by world class games in Athens so it’s likely a little overshadowed. We had a good time playing The Dark Side of the Elements and I fell in love with the ceiling and some of the cool tech they used.
No Exit: El Exorcista (Athens)
I have never experienced anything quite like El Exorcista, and I think that goes for the rest of the team as well. We were, quite literally, dropped into the middle of The Exorcist and I have never felt more immersed in a game
Escapepolis: The Butcher Resurrection (Athens)
This game felt like more of a traditional live actor horror escape room rather than some of the others we played, and that’s not a bad thing. The puzzles were solid, the story was good, and the set was suitably terrifying
Escapepolis: Cosmos 05 Death in Space (Athens)
We really wanted to love this game, and in a way we did. We loved the tech, we just found the gameplay to be a bit lacking and we ended up more frustrated than anything else
Paradox Project: The Music Academy (Athens)
The Music Academy is one of those games that keeps on going. When we thought we were done, there was more puzzling to be done! We haven’t played many three hour games, but Paradox Project are surely the masters of this domain, what an experience!
Paradox Project: The Bookstore (Athens)
If you want a short review, then I’ll simply say The Bookstore is a beautiful game. The puzzles are perfect, the narrative is interesting, twisty, and ever present, and it’s all housed in a beautifully designed, quirky space. Athens may be known as a destination for excellent horror games, but those certainly aren’t the only excellent games you’ll find here.
Paradox Project: The Mansion (Athens)
While the sequel to The Mansion is more highly thought of, it would be wrong to skip this game in favour of only playing the second. The Mansion in its own right is a well-thought-out, fun game with a strong narrative, and an immense number of surprising and satisfying puzzles.
Escapism: Radioactive (Plymouth)
The puzzles in this game really clicked with us, and we quite enjoyed the theming too. It’s nice to play a room that perhaps has a darker side without being a physically dark room. More rooms with decent lighting, please.
Escapism: Breadcrumbs (Plymouth)
This is classed as the easiest game at this venue, and it may be, but I’m not sure. It was a fun game with cute set design. Ignoring the slightly dark undertones of the story, I could see this game being a family favourite.
Escapism: Legacy (Plymouth)
Not the hardest of games, but we had a good time in Legacy. The puzzles ranged in difficulty and type and the openness of the game allowed us to split up and do our own thing. A good first game to start off our Escapism Plymouth binge day.
Escapism: The Missing (Plymouth)
The Missing is the epitome of “Classic Escape Room.” The set build is decent, with fun and engaging puzzles that are sure to delight those new to escape games, and please seasoned enthusiasts.
Escape from the Room: The Mixed up Mind of Mr Crabheal (Epsom)
Escape from the Room have created a game here that should be enjoyed by not only the general public, but also enthusiasts, which is not always an easy feat. It’s great to see a growing trend where escape rooms are designed to keep you in the game for as close to 60 minutes as possible.
Cornwall’s Great Escape Rooms: Fractured Fairytales (Helston)
This game is arguably on the easier side and experienced teams will likely fly through it. But as a stop-over game, or a family game, it’s probably set just right. The set design was lovely, the puzzles made sense, and it made for a fun (albeit short) experience.
Escape Time: Prison X (St Ives)
Prison X was pretty much your standard prison escape type of game, but with a slight twist at the end – oh and a washing machine, because, why not? If you’re in St Ives and looking for a game to play, then this more traditional style escape room could help you escape the busy streets below
Cornwall’s Great Escape Rooms: The Family Business (Newlyn)
This room is probably ok for the market it is intended for, and most people will probably love it. For some reason it just didn’t click with us and I’m not sure why
Cornwall’s Great Escape Rooms: The Secrets aboard the Jolly Roger (Newlyn)
You can’t come to Cornwall and not play a pirate themed escape room. We found the Secrets aboard the Jolly Roger, and had a good time doing it. The room won’t wow you, but it was an enjoyable time and most of the puzzles were fair and enjoyable to solve.
Dreadlock Escape Rooms: Detention (Bodmin)
Considering the theme was ‘Detention’, I can’t quite work out why, but this game was a delight. The puzzles were well thought out and the game flowed well. I think it helped that the room felt quite new and clean, but this game has cemented the fact that I think Dreadlock may be our favourite venue in Cornwall.
Reynard’s Adventures: Temple of the Volcano God (Taunton)
This is a game that is sure to turn beginners into enthusiasts. The set design was beautiful and the puzzles were not the most challenging, but were fun.
Prodigy Escapes: The Haunting of Mount Clifton Manor (Exeter)
Thanks to the excellent puzzle flow and creepy ambiance, I thoroughly enjoyed The Haunting of Mount Clifton Manor, but what makes it even more impressive is that it is the company’s first game. I’m looking forward to seeing what Prodigy Escapes do next (particularly as it’s rumoured to be my favourite theme.)
Prodigy Escapes: Mission Impawsible (Exeter)
There’s no point avoiding it, this is a game designed for beginners and it shows. As enthusiasts we weren’t challenged in this game but we still enjoyed it. If you’re looking for a game to try and convince friends (or family) that they really should play an escape room – this is the game you want
Red House Mysteries: The Danziger Experiment (Exeter)
This wasn’t a bad game, and in places it was fun. Unfortunately the one GM for two games decision is what let our experience down. I understand that this is probably due to financial reasons but we’re yet to play at a company who runs this way and offers a better experience than one GM for one game.
TimeTrap: Curiouser and Curiouser (Reading)
Another example of a beautifully assembled game by TimeTrap that was a joy to play. The puzzles were great and on theme, and the room itself was wonderful to interact with. Don’t worry if you didn’t play the prequel to this game, you’ll still have a great time.
Escape Reading: Age of Magic (Reading)
Age of Magic almost certainly wins the prize for most beautifully themed magic room I’ve played thus far. On top of that, the puzzles were solid, making the entire experience simply enchanting.
The Panic Room: Hell House (Gravesend)
Hell House is possibly The Panic Room’s most ambitious project to date, and it is quite a sight to behold. If you’re planning a visit to Gravesend, I would add Hell House to the “Not To Be Missed” list.
The Panic Room: Riddled (Gravesend)
If you’re looking for a game for stag/hen dos, this is it. This game obviously has a target market and I imagine it does really quite well for that market, I’m not sure what enthusiasts will think about it, but credit to Panic Room for doing something different.
Mythologic: Mr. Todd’s (Gillingham)
My favourite Sondheim musical is Sweeney Todd, so of course, my nerdy little musical-loving heart was in heaven in Mr Todd’s. The set was beautiful, the puzzles pleasing, and the story stuck very closely to the one I know very well, making this game a delight to play.
Mythologic: Needlenose (Gillingham)
I’m not normally a huge fan of horror/live-actor escape rooms as they seem to just be dark for the sake of it, but Needlenose was good fun and had a good sense of adventure. In terms of set design and build, it felt like a step up from their earlier games and I’d imagine this is a very popular game around the scary season!
Ctrl Alt Esc: Quick-E-Mart (Margate)
We enjoyed our time in the Quick-E-Mart, but it just felt a bit short. We were an experienced team, but for a 90 minute game, we didn’t expect to get out in less than 40 minutes. The experience was fun, just a little too short lived and left us wanting a few extra puzzles to bulk it out.
Eureka Escape: Cabin Fever (Penzance)
This game feels like it was made for the surroundings it is in. It won’t wow you, but nothing felt out of place. Puzzle wise there was nothing too complex, although we found one of the search puzzles a bit sneaky, and another puzzle had too many options and made it too easy to get distracted.
Eureka Escape: Death by Prescription (Penzance)
Of the two games we played at Eureka Escapes, Death by Prescription was my preferred. There were a number of satisfying puzzles, and very little ambiguity which can sometimes lead to frustration in escape rooms.
Eltham Escapes: Temple of the Forbidden Idol (Eltham)
I enjoyed Eltham Escape’s previous temple themed game, but The Temple of the Forbidden Idol has definitely surpassed its predecessor. The Temple of the Forbidden Idol was filled with satisfyingly chunky and tactile puzzles, and just enough adventure to thrill my temple loving heart
Eltham Escapes: Return to Neverland (Eltham)
This game was a joy to play and was beautifully put together. The puzzles were fun and the game had a little bit of magic that made it a wonderful space to be. If you’re a fan of the Disney experience, get booked in!
Eltham Escapes: Nightmare on Ripper Street (Eltham)
The story felt like it was missing something in this game, but the set design was spot on. Some questionable tech as well as some sneaky searching left us feeling a bit confused at times, and like we were guessing more than solving things.
Unsolved Mysteries: The Cabin (Chatham)
Unsolved Mysteries have raised the bar for what I expect from an escape room with The Cabin. With satisfying puzzles and a surprising human element, The Cabin managed to be infinitely more immersive than a simple “serial killer” themed game
The Escapement: Atlantis (Broadstairs)
Atlantis ticked every box on my “Perfect Escape Room” list and then proceeded to blow my already high expectations out of the water (pun intended). In fact, I may even have new tick boxes to add to the list after our visit to Broadstairs. Honestly, if I were to pick a favourite game in the UK (possibly on the planet), it’s currently in Broadstairs.
The Escapement: Captcha Code (Broadstairs)
Captcha Code is a brilliant way to spend an hour or two exploring the charming town of Broadstairs, and slots perfectly into the interconnected narratives of The Network and WunderWaffe Operation Quartz. But more than that, it is an exceedingly clever, and exciting game full of delightful surprises and pleasing puzzles.
The Escapement: WunderWaffe Operation Quartz (Broadstairs)
This game was a long time in the making, but I’m pleased to report that the wait was 100% worth it. The Escapement have created a game here that will surely go to the top of people’s ‘Top 10’ lists, we need to rejig ours, as this is firmly up there for sure.
The Panic Room: The Happy Institute (Gravesend)
We left it a long time before playing this game, and we shouldn’t have. The puzzles were logical and fair, our GM was great, and we had a very ‘Happy’ time in this Institute.
Escape Rooms Cardiff: Astro Quest (Cardiff)
Astro Quest is the rebirth of Press Start – and it works. The puzzles were much more enjoyable, the story made more sense, and the set dressing was good. It feels like this game now has something for everyone and it’s sure to be a much more enjoyable experience (once one puzzle is tweaked).
Hounds Escape: Explorer’s Diary (Crawley)
I’ll admit, I am somewhat biased, being totally and automatically in love with almost any game that gives me an opportunity to live out my Indiana Jones fantasies, but Explorer’s Diary is about as close to perfect as a game could get. Beautifully designed, both aesthetically and in terms of game play, this game was a joy to play, and my new favourite at Hounds Escape. Not only is it not to be missed if you’re in the area, but it’s worth making a special trip for.
Mindworks: Smuggler’s Ruin (Worthing)
Everyone knows Brighton has great escape rooms, but if you’re in the area then it’s definitely worth stopping by Worthing. MindWorks surprised me with the quality of this game, and it was a lovely way to end a day of quality games.
Pier Pressure: Modrophenia (Brighton)
There’s a reason Pier Pressure are so well thought of amongst escape room enthusiasts, and Modrophenia highlights all of those things. Funky sets, perfect puzzles, and an immersive atmosphere, you can’t go wrong with any of the games here, but Modrophenia is one not to miss.
Pier Pressure: Loot The Lanes (Brighton)
Loot the Lanes contains a real sense of awe that is often lacking in escape rooms and is a true testament to the team at Pier Pressure. Everything about this game is first rate and I can easily see why this game is consistently rated as the best, or one of the best in the UK. It’s a must play.
The Escape Game Carmarthen: Oubliette (Carmarthen)
This room was a let down for us thanks to an unfair placement of a handcuff key, and this really tainted our experience. The set design was decent for the most part, although the final ‘reveal’ was pretty much apparent from the start which was a shame.
The Escape Game Carmarthen: Depth Charge (Carmarthen)
The smoke in this room was set to 11, dial that down a bit and I think we’d have had a more enjoyable experience. Saying that, the set design for Depth Charge was pretty spot on and the puzzles didn’t feel out of place
The Escape Game Carmarthen: Lunar Base Alpha (Carmarthen)
If you’re planning to play only one game at Carmarthen and you’re struggling to choose, look no further. The stronger narrative combined with more tactile challenges made Lunar Base Alpha not just my preferred game at The Escape Game Carmarthen, but also my preferred game across both venues.
Tenby’s Great Escape: Captain’s Treasure Room (Tenby)
We didn’t click with this game, but we still appreciate that it was well designed and had a good sense of adventure. I had low expectations for this venue, and was pleasantly surprised. If you’re in the Tenby area then this venue is worth checking out
Tenby’s Great Escape: The Wizard’s Lair (Tenby)
It was a nice change to play a Wizard themed room that simply wasn’t a Harry Potter rip off. The set design in this game was spot on and they managed to fit in a few surprises, along with some enjoyable puzzles.
Tenby’s Great Escape: The Tenby Asylum (Tenby)
I probably wouldn’t recommend The Tenby Asylum if you’ve never played an escape room before, but for enthusiasts that are looking for a challenge and don’t mind a jump scare or two, then this is the one. The set was impressive, but even more appealing were the puzzles.
The Escape Game Swansea: Wild West (Swansea)
I wanted to love Wild West, but unfortunately it left me feeling just a bit flat. However, I wouldn’t let that stop you from playing. Despite my issues with it, Wild West was the strongest of the games at The Escape Game’s Swansea branch, and there were a few moments of pure puzzling joy.
The Escape Game Swansea: Hostel (Swansea)
I can see why this game has such a low escape rate. Darkness, lack of signposting, and puzzles that just didn’t seem to make sense or always fit the narrative. We left this hostel feeling frustrated and wondering if we should have just quit to became the latest victims.
The Escape Game Swansea: Alcatraz (Swansea)
The Escape Game’s Alcatraz is a standard prison break. That doesn’t mean it’s not fun though – the puzzles were fair and engaging, with a few unique twists, and perfect for those new to escape rooms.
The Escape Game Swansea: The Prison Van (Swansea)
Our dislike of Prison Van escape rooms was not changed with this game. It felt like signposting was limited, some poor choices were made on puzzle design, and generally we just felt frustrated at our time in the van.
Exitus Escape Rooms: Coco Loco (Cardiff)
Coco Loco was a delight for pretty much all the senses, and is a perfect family friendly escape room in Cardiff. Just when we thought the game was over, Exitus surprised us once again! Often you’ll get a card, or a badge to take away from an escape room, but that’s not good enough for Exitus – what a treat!
Exitus Escape Rooms: The Curse of Senutep (Cardiff)
If you find yourself in Cardiff, it would be a crime not to stop by Exitus. You can’t go wrong with any of their games, but The Curse of Senutep is the perfect choice for large groups or challenge seeking enthusiasts.
Riddlr: The Wizard’s Apprentice (Bristol)
The Wizard’s Apprentice is a game that needs no hesitation to book. With solid puzzles, an immersive atmosphere, and actual moments of magic, this is one magic school I was very happy to attend.
11th Hour Escapes: Criminal Record (Bromham)
I love it when a game is a lovely space to be in, not just because of the set design, but because of the puzzles too. Criminal Record was fun from start to end and the puzzles perfectly complemented the set. Credit to 11th Hour Escapes for making a murder mystery fun again!
11th Hour Escapes: Victoria’s Last Challenge (Bromham)
Victoria’s Last Challenge is the epitome of classic escape room, with solid and logical puzzles that are sure to thrill new escapees and please enthusiasts.
Mission Breakout: Underground 2099 (London)
Underground 2099 has some cool moments and a good sense of adventure, but I’d like a little more signposting and definitely more light to make this a truly fun experience.
Riddlr: Decade Runner (Bristol)
I wish this was a 90 minute room, simply so I could have had more time to enjoy the space. This game was challenging but I loved every minute spent in it. Best game in Bristol? I think so.
Riddlr: Nautilus (Bristol)
I can see why Nautilus is the go-to recommendation for Bristol. Strong set design, solid puzzles, a great sense of adventure, and a bit of fun along the way make this a game that we will have no hesitation in recommending
Riddlr: Seance (Bristol)
It’s always nice to set a new room record, not just for bragging rights but because it shows that a room clicked with us, meaning the puzzles were logical and fair. Couple that with some good set design and some entertaining jump scares, and Séance is a fun game to play and one we would recommend if you’re in town.
U-Escape: The Barber Shop Mystery (Bournemouth)
The Barber Shop Mystery was a pleasure to play, with a lovingly crafted set and thoroughly pleasing puzzles. Of the games at U-Escape this is the one most suited for larger teams, but really, it’s great for everyone!
U-Escape: Psycho Surgeon Escape (Bournemouth)
Psycho Surgeon is a fun game with plenty of creep factor for those that like a darker game, and plenty of satisfying puzzles for those that care more about the puzzles than the atmosphere.
U-Escape: Franksy (Bournemouth)
Easily our favourite game at U-Escape. Franksy has a unique theme, with unique puzzles, and great set design. This is by far the most challenging of games at this venue, especially if you complete it on the hardest setting, but it’s great fun and if you’re in Bournemouth get it booked!
The Great Big Escape: Hop House Homicide (Dorchester)
This room felt like it was set up in a rush just so they could get their doors open. Sparse set design, lacking puzzles, frustrating puzzles, and a very anti-climatic ending meant we left just feeling a bit flat. This game has a premium price tag, but it was not a premium experience.
Escape Down the Rabbit Hole: Escape the Bus (Barnstaple)
Speed is actually one of my favourite films, so to play a game that has taken inspiration from one of the greats was actually a great deal of fun. Escape the Bus was a bit of a surprise, and I found that of the two games available at Escape Down the Rabbit Hole, it was my favourite.
Escape Down the Rabbit Hole: The College of Magic (Barnstaple)
Games in the South West seem heavily targeted to the passing tourist market, so enthusiasts are unlikely to be challenged. At £60 for a team of two, this is not a cheap experience and it certainly didn’t feel like it warranted such a high price, but we had fun, and (other than the first) the puzzles made sense and were logical.
Devon Escape: D-Day for Devon (Newton Abbot)
D-Day for Devon was definitely the highlight of the day during our time at Devon Escapes, with puzzles that clicked and a game that flowed, not to mention a nice set and an unexpected twist as we approached the finale.
Devon Escape: Death on Dartmoor (Newton Abbot)
Possibly the most impressive set (at least early on) at this venue, but thanks to one puzzle we found this game a little unsatisfying. I’d probably rate it as the second best game at Devon Escape but it is still worth playing if you’re in the area.
Devon Escape: Professor Enright’s Enigma (Newton Abbot)
We entered this room expecting it to be easier, but we were certainly mistaken. An error on our part made this room much harder than it should have been. But the puzzles were decent, the theming was adequate and we had fun – so that works for us.
Paradox Parlours: Maxwell Mysteries – The Kidnapped Professor (Play at Home)
We really enjoyed the first Maxwell Mysteries game, but we enjoyed this one even more. The puzzles clicked with us, the printing and cutting wasn’t a chore, and the story and general quality of the game made it an instant ‘must play’ for us.
Lock and Code: National Elf Service (Weston-Super-Mare)
Because of the short lifespan of Christmas rooms we can understand companies not making them as refined as their other rooms. Saying that, National Elf Service had a decent story, authentic 90s set dressing, and one or two puzzles that brought a smile to our face – and that’s what it’s all about.
Random-Rooms: The Old Hospital Room (Newport)
We hoped to finish on a high at Random-Rooms, but I think The Old Hospital was our least favourite game of the day. One puzzle just felt like a massive leap and that caused us to end the game with more frustration than fun.
Random Rooms: The Cell (Newport)
The Cell has a unique twist on an otherwise familiar theme. In all, it was a decent game, with fair puzzles, but was ultimately a bit of a let down with an anticlimactic finish.
Random-Rooms: The Dragon Room (Newport)
For a room called ‘The Dragon Room’, it felt like it was lacking something, and I think that would probably be a dragon. Two big puzzles slowed down the game for us and kinda killed the buzz, up until that point we were enjoying it, then it just became a bit frustrating.
Random-Rooms: The Random Room (Newport)
This room certainly lived up to its name, it was very random. We clicked with the puzzles and found it to be an easy game, strangely it was probably the game we enjoyed the most at Random-Rooms.
Bristol Escape Rooms: Operation Omicron (Bristol)
This is a game for beginner players and I must admit that having paid £50 for a team of two we felt pretty short changed at completing the main game in 15 minutes. Yes there was a secondary bomb but that didn’t feel like part of the game and was more of an afterthought.
DreadLock: Witch Way Out?! (Bodmin)
I’m a sucker for a story, so Witch Way Out?! was my preferred game at Dreadlock, with decent puzzles and just a fun atmosphere, intertwined with the story. Whichever game you choose, Dreadlock are well worth a visit if you’re in the area… or you could always play two.
Genius Escapes: Nuclear Nightmare (Southampton)
If you’re an enthusiast looking for a challenging room, then play this one on Genius level. This is a challenging but fair game and despite feeling like we were going to crash and burn multiple times, we thoroughly enjoyed our time averting the Nuclear Nightmare.
Roomsmiths: The Naked Eye (Plymouth)
In a way this felt like it should be a hard room as there was a lot to do, but it clicked with our team and we got out in super-quick time. It’s cosy in places but really opens up so I’d imagine that bigger teams will probably still find things to do.
Housetrap Escape Rooms: Seance (Bodmin)
Of the games that we played at Housetrap, across both venues, Seance was my favourite. With a spooky atmosphere and a few jump scares, the real highlights for me were the moments of supernatural activity, and the surprises that came with it. Plus, the puzzles were pretty good too
Housetrap Escape Rooms: Aquarium (Bodmin)
This game would probably be a good choice for a family if you’re looking for an escape room near Bodmin, enthusiasts also may enjoy it, but for us it just didn’t click. The game had a cute feel to it but the puzzles weren’t our cup of tea.
Housetrap Escape Rooms: Tumbleweed (Indian Queens)
Despite the odd setting in Gnome World, we were pleasantly surprised by Tumbleweed. It had good set dressing, solid puzzles, and nice and open gameplay, the fact that it was 90 minutes was also a bonus. If you’re in Cornwall, this one is worth a detour
Logic Box: Santa and the Missing Pocket Watch (Highbridge)
We normally crash and burn in Christmas games, but this one clicked more than normal, although we still did have our moments. This is a lovely, family friendly game, and perfect for getting you in the Christmas spirit (even if you play in November).
DreadLock: Let the Games Begin (Bodmin)
This game is unlikely to challenge enthusiasts, and if you’re a fan of story you may want to look elsewhere. But, if you just want a fun, unpretentious game that is all about the puzzles and nothing else, then this is a good shout.
Hounds Escape: Southern Discomfort (Crawley)
Hounds Escape impressed us with their debut game, and their second may be even better (I can’t decide – it would be like choosing a favourite child if I had any). If you’re looking for an hour filled with amazing scenery, fantastic puzzles, and a whole lot of laughs, you won’t go wrong getting yourself over to Hounds Escape for a little Southern Discomfort.
Tulleys Escape Rooms: SpellCraft (Crawley)
The magic added something to the immersion. Nethercott is possibly still my favourite, and Mutiny might still be Liz’s, but objectively SpellCraft might be one of Tulleys best. The magical elevator taking us places, and then revisiting other rooms, and the twistyness of everything gave it a level of mystique
Dark Master: Into the Reliquary (Crowborough)
The set of Into the Reliquary is truly something to behold, and there are certain moments throughout the game that we are unlikely to forget for some time. The puzzles didn’t wow in the same way as their surroundings, but still made for a fun game, although that was somewhat overshadowed by a moment or two of what felt like legitimate danger.
Dark Master: One Wing Airlines (Crowborough)
For us, there was a bit too much going on in this game which meant we couldn’t focus on what we needed and ended up missing key things. DarkMaster are certainly up there with the best for their set design, but I think the puzzles left us wanting a bit more.
Logic Box: The Mystery of Loke Lake (Highbridge)
The Mystery of Loke Lake is a solid game, with a nice linear flow and solid puzzles, making it a good choice for escape fans of all experience levels
Cryptology: Daylight Robbery (Nottingham)
This is an amazing game that is sure to get your adrenaline going, and possibly keep it going for nearly the full hour. There are sure to be puzzles in here that you love (and some you’ll probably hate), but all the puzzles are fair, the set design is great, and this is guaranteed to be an enthusiast favourite – and could be the game to get newbies addicted.
Cryptology: Cypherdyne v1.5 (Nottingham)
Cypherdyne v1.5 may be Cryptology’s first game, but it’s also is an excellent example of everything an escape room should be: clever, exciting, and most importantly – fun. It’s perfect for new players and enjoyable for enthusiasts. With this as their first game, it’s no surprise that Cryptology has become a venue everyone seems to be talking about.
Cryptology: Rameseize (Nottingham)
This is a room that would be perfect for those new to escape rooms or seasoned escapers. The puzzles were fun, the room was solid, and the sense of exploration was spot on. With different ‘win’ levels, it works for everyone regardless of experience level.
Cryptology: Dreamscape (Nottingham)
Dreamscape is totally unique, a total blast, and absolutely rammed full of things to do. It is a perfect game for teams that are looking for a challenge to test their brainpower.
Tempo Escape Rooms: Eternal Life (Bath)
We had heard good things about Tempo in Bath, and I’m pleased to say this game lived up to our expectations. Great story-telling, solid puzzles, and a really fun, and at times, whimsical set, makes this a definite reason to visit Bath.
House of Frankenstein: Victor’s Lair (Bath)
I don’t know who designed Victor’s Lair, but I think it needs a little more work. It’s not a bad room, it’s certainly visually good, but the puzzles and flow felt lacking. If they take feedback on board and are willing to make adjustments then I think this could be a game that we would recommend in Bath.
Exitus Escape Rooms: Virus Tinkerers (Cardiff)
Virus Tinkerers was a game where everything fell into place for us and we loved our time in the lab. Fun puzzles, solid design, and nice touches as a nod to the scientists involved in the Tenovus charity – this is a must play game in Cardiff.
Logic Box: The Portland Heist (Highbridge)
A really strong first game by a new company and we’re sure we’ll be back to check out their other game soon. The Portland Heist had clever puzzles (don’t overcomplicate) and good story and set design. This would be a fun game for both enthusiasts or ‘regular’ people, especially families.
Escape Rooms Cardiff: The Cardiff Castle (Cardiff)
Cardiff Castle is by far the prettiest of all the games we’ve played at Escape Rooms Cardiff, and possibly the prettiest we’ve played in Cardiff itself. It’s a solid game that will be fun for enthusiasts and great for newcomers to escape rooms, plus it’s a perfect tie in if you’re planning to visit the game’s eponym while you’re in the area
Escape Rooms Cardiff: Press Start (Cardiff)
We really wanted to like this game but we found the narrative didn’t seem to fit the game and the puzzles weren’t enjoyable to us. I’d imagine some players will click and blitz this game, but unfortunately this wasn’t the game for us.
Clue HQ: The Legend of Miyalock (Birmingham)
The Legend of Miyalock seems to be the shining light in the ClueHQ collection. Admittedly we haven’t played many ClueHQ games, but Miyalock is a cracking game and one that ClueHQ can be proud of.
Marvo Mysteries: Marvo Induction (Bournemouth)
Don’t wait for a special occasion to play this game, get booked in now, you most definitely won’t regret it.
Houdini’s: RMS Titanic (Southampton)
We loved the attention to detail in both the game, and the waiting area. The room itself had touches that were historically accurate, and the reception had a poster of the Titanic that was signed by the youngest survivor of the disaster.
Trapp’d: Forsaken (Wellingborough)
We destroyed Forsaken, completing it in 23 minutes and escaping with the room record. It wasn’t a hard room but I can see why people may struggle, especially as it is so dark. I don’t know if bigger teams get more torches, but one per person would be nice. If you’re a fan of horror rooms and like a live actor, then you’ll probably get a buzz from Forsaken.
Trapp’d: Legend of Drakon (Wellingborough)
Drakon was our least favourite game at Trapp’d Wellingborough, but that could have been because of the reset error which threw us off. Considering we completed it in 34 minutes even with that error, I don’t think this game is likely to challenge teams, but it is still good fun. If your Trapp’d GM provides torches for your team then you’ll probably have a more enjoyable experience – if not, you best get eating your carrots.
Trapp’d: Atlantis (Wellingborough)
Credit to Trapp’d for doing something different with this room and the set design was spot on. It would have been nice to have seen a few more puzzles as the space was massive and could take them, but it was still an enjoyable time under the sea.
Angle Escape: Candy Shop (Peterborough)
The Candy Shop is the best of the rooms at Angle Escape and shows that they are improving with each game they build. Darkness and lighting was still an issue but that would be easily solved by providing more (decent) torches.
Angle Escape: The Getaway (Peterborough)
The Getaway firmly sits in the horroresque category for escape rooms, but is more creepy than scary. It’s dark and probably needlessly so, but out of the three games we played at Angle Escapes, this one falls firmly in the middle of the three for enjoyment.
Angle Escape: Victim (Peterborough)
The Victim is, I believe, the earliest room they have at Angle Escape, and it does show. As we played their other games they improved in quality. If darkness and lack of signposting doesn’t bother you, then you may enjoy this, but for us we just didn’t get on with it and left feeling rather deflated.
Want to Escape: The Guardian of the Gallery (Rushden)
The Guardian of the Gallery doesn’t feel like your average escape room. You can tell that this is built by an enthusiast who wants to push boundaries and create something different. This room is challenging, yet fair, and will likely be a firm favourite on the enthusiast scene for a long time to come.
Want to Escape: Teacher’s Revenge (Rushden)
If school was this fun, I’d probably be a doctor. This room was a joy from start to end thanks to its clever puzzles and lighthearted design. Was it as fun as Shimmy Shimmy or as impressive as Guardians? Probably not, but it was very close!
Want to Escape: Conspiracist (Rushden)
If I had to pick a game at Want to Escape that was the most “traditional” in the style of escape rooms, it would be Conspiracist, and I loved it because of it.
Want to Escape: Shimmy Shimmy Cocoa Pop (Rushden)
I’m a sucker for rooms that play on 80s nostalgia so it was probably a given that I would like this game. If you’re looking for a light-hearted game, then for sheer fun you’ll be hard pressed to find something more appropriate than Shimmy Shimmy.
One Way Out: Gas Alert (Oakham)
This felt like a game of two halves for us, we loved the first half but struggled in the second. Either way, this is a solid game with a massive space to explore!
One Way Out: Rhyming Room (Oakham)
This room will most definitely be a family favourite. If you’re in the area and are looking for a game to play with the family, then this is it. Likely to be fun for all ages and experience levels, Rhyming Room is worth it, even if it’s just to be impressed by Tilly Tonka’s intro!
One Way Out: Framed (Oakham)
A massive space makes this a perfect game for larger teams of either enthusiasts or families. Some very clever puzzles and a great way to play out a classic who-dunnit.
One Way Out: Robot’s Return (Oakham)
If you’ve played Coming Home at one of the several venues it’s available at, you might be tempted to give Robot’s Return a miss. Don’t. Despite the similarities in the stories, the games are entirely different, and Robot’s Return is a delight, both in terms of its clever puzzles, and its sweet little robot.
Escapologic: Reactorvate (Leicester)
My favourite games are those that completely immerse you in the world around you, particularly by forcing players to perform “real-world” tasks, and make you feel as though you are the star of your own film. Reactorvate did this, and more, and has firmly embedded itself in my mind as my favourite game at Escapologic’s Leicester branch (so far, at least).
Escapologic: Chronos (Leicester)
Sometimes we just don’t click with a room, and that doesn’t make it a bad game, our brains just weren’t wired correctly for this game. It was a very pretty room and the puzzles were tactile and interactive, but so far, Chronos is at the bottom of our Escapologic list.
Escapologic: The Gateway (Leicester)
I really didn’t know what to expect with The Gateway, but we thoroughly enjoyed it. Just the right level of darkness, no frustrations, and a good flow to the story, well done Escapologic – great fun!
Unescapable: Mary (Derby)
As always, these reviews are own personal opinions, but if I were pressed to name the best game at Unescapable, Mary would be my selection (although my favourite was Tommy). With pleasing puzzles, a great atmosphere, and a whole lot of fun, if you’re having trouble deciding which game to play at Unescapable, you can’t go wrong with Mary. (Well, really, you wouldn’t go wrong with any of them.)
Unescapable: Tommy (Derby)
A fun room that had a good sense of exploration, but perhaps play Tommy as a warm-up for the other games here. Our game was tainted by over-eager clueing by our GM, and a laborious first puzzle, but we ended on a high and that’s the main thing.
Unescapable: Alan (Derby)
A pirate themed room, but not as you know it. Surprise awaits you when you enter this room, and then you’re taken on a wonderful journey as the story develops.
Unescapable: Edith (Derby)
Edith has a reputation amongst UK enthusiasts that’s not undeserved. Your tolerance for terror will ultimately determine if this is one that you’ll love or leave, but it is without a doubt one of the best horror experiences we have played in the UK (so far), and struck a nice balance between horrifying and humorous
Cave Escape: Monuments (Nottingham)
I loved Cave Escape from the moment I stepped into the reception area two years ago to play Carfax, but Monuments has completely blown me away. Not only was this game one of the highlights on our nearly 60 game road trip, but it ranks among my favourite Top Ten games I have played to date
Escapologic: Robin of Lockskey (Nottingham)
It’s no surprise that someone in Nottingham finally created a Robin Hood themed game – It really was only a matter of time. Robin of Lockskey was the game I was most looking forward to on this visit to Escapologic, and it did not disappoint. Highly immersive, great puzzles, and totally adventurous, this is a must play game for sure.
Escapologic: Immaterium (Nottingham)
Possibly one of the most visually stunning games that we have ever played. Ok, the puzzles didn’t particularly click with us but that won’t stop us recommending this game. Make sure you stretch before you play, you need to be quite mobile as you navigate around the ship.
Escapologic: Epi-Centre (Nottingham)
Epi-Centre is a good room but probably not the first one we’d recommend at Escapologic. If there was less ‘clutter’ and better torches, we probably would have enjoyed this game more. Although saying that, we did enjoy the crazy ending.
Escape Stations: Prometheus (Nottingham)
If you’re booking a trip to Nottingham, make sure you don’t miss out Escape Stations. Their lobby may not yet be as refined as other venues in the city, but their first game is solid and is an enjoyable experience
Make Your Escape: Utopia (Derby)
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live a world like in the movie ‘Divergent’, then you need to play both Utopia and Dystopia, back-to-back.
Make Your Escape: Dystopia (Derby)
Will you choose to play Dystopia as a standalone game, in succession with it’s brighter and more futuristic sibling, or pit yourself against an opposing Utopian team? The choice is yours, but whichever you choose, you’re in for a treat.
Make Your Escape: Spellbound (Derby)
Spellbound is a mission, especially for a team of two. That’s why it’s normally recommended for 3+ players. It is achievable for a team of two, but it’s full on, with loads of puzzles and content to sift through – but from the very first puzzle, this game is a hoot!
Make Your Escape: The Signal (Derby)
Dystopia and Utopia seem to get all the love at Make Your Escape, but The Signal is certainly worth a play, and ideal for those new to escaping. The Signal was also the first (I think) game in the country to present players with an existential dilemma that will directly impact the outcome of the game. What choice will you make?
Compendium: UI-55 (Bury)
Never have I ever seen this many puzzles crammed into a room. UI-55 isn’t your traditional escape room, but if you’re in the mood for puzzles, puzzles, and more puzzles, mixed with an insane amount of fun, you can’t go wrong with this game.
Compendium: Bedlam (Bury)
With excellent set design, fantastic game flow, and satisfying puzzles, Bedlam stands out amongst its peers as my favourite game at Compendium. (Okay, maybe it’s tied with UI-55, but that game is an entirely different beast, and not quite your traditional escape room.)
Compendium: Laboratory (Bury)
A nice and bright room that felt very different to the other offerings at Compendium. This is a large space that could handle bigger teams, and has some really satisfying puzzles. Good fun.
Compendium: Wrong Turn (Bury)
A creepy room with good set design and some nicely challenging puzzles. Perhaps a bit gruesome for the family, but those of you who seek out horror rooms will likely enjoy (especially if you get the live actor version)
Lucardo: Gem Runner (Rawtenstall)
We enjoyed Gem Runner in Manchester, and we had the same feeling in Rawtenstall. A fun game that will remind you of all the things you first loved about escape rooms.
Lucardo: University of Magic – Dragons Heart (Rawtenstall)
It’s been so long since we played Entrance Exam that I can’t really confirm or deny the rumours that say Dragon’s Heart is even better, but I can confirm that Dragon’s Heart is definitely superb and well worth the trip to Rawtenstall.
Lucardo: Safe House (Rawtenstall)
Yet another fun room by Lucardo. We’d been holding off playing the online avatar version of this game as we wanted to play it in real life, and we’re glad we did. We enjoyed Corruption a bit more than Safe House, but this game is unlikely to disappoint.
Lucardo: Corruption (Rawtenstall)
Lucardo have hit it out of the park once again. Corruption was full of fantastic puzzles, immersive touches, and all surrounded by a fantastic set. Prison in Manchester used to be my favourite Lucardo game, but this one may have surpassed it.
Lockdown: The Ministry (Ormskirk)
Although Lockdown are new to the escape room scene, they have brought three strong games to the table, with (minor hiccups aside) The Ministry being a highlight of the venue. If their first games are any indication of their skills, I look forward to seeing what comes next!
Lockdown: The Institution (Ormskirk)
This room had some good moments and certainly threw a few surprises our way with some theatrical elements that we weren’t expecting. With the exception of one puzzle, we enjoyed this game but I feel confident that this puzzle will be tweaked to make it better, so if you play, you may not have the same frustration that we did.
Lockdown: The Lodge (Ormskirk)
Perhaps on the easier side, The Lodge would be a great entry level game for those thinking of trying an escape room. Even enthusiasts should have a good time as the puzzles are decent and the theming is spot on.
Wirral Escape Rooms: The Curse of the Golden Lion (Liverpool)
If Disney made an escape room, this would be it. Ignoring the fact that the game is great and beautiful, there are so many easter eggs lovingly placed in the room that it is like an extra puzzle to spot and identify them all (we missed many)
Adrenaline: Nebula (Wigan)
Nebula was easily our favourite room at Adrenaline, and if this is a sign of things to come then they’re a venue to watch. This room really clicked with us and we found the puzzles a joy to solve and the room a pleasant place to be
Adrenaline: Kidnapped (Wigan)
Of all the games at Adrenaline, this is probably the one I would recommend most to the enthusiast community, or I suppose anyone up for a challenge. As far as kidnapping/serial killer themed rooms go it is well done, but what really makes it special is the bonus level if you have time to spare and are up for testing your skills
Adrenaline: Lab 3436 (Wigan)
With solid puzzles, some fun with science, and one rather amazing thing to lend weight to the time travel theme, Lab 3436 had me feeling like a genius when we escaped.
Adrenaline: Labyrinth (Wigan)
This room certainly felt like a labyrinth, with twists and turns meaning we didn’t know which way we would be headed next. With decent puzzles and a good flow to the game, we enjoyed our time in the Labyrinth
Extremescape: Viking (Disley)
Despite struggling with this room (we were tired), we absolutely loved it. From the start to the incredible ending, this game had everything and more. This room is a real gem in the escape room industry and must be played by everyone.
Extremescape: The Lost Tomb (Disley)
Tomb Raiding Adventures are perhaps my favourite type of escape, and The Lost Tomb at Extremescape sits amongst some of the best I have ever played. While I can’t really choose which of the three games at Extremescape is the “best,” this is without a doubt my personal favourite
Extremescape: The Pirate Ship (Disley)
It’s very easy to see why Extremescape have the reputation they do. They took a simple theme and made it something special. A great sense of adventure, solid puzzles, and a beautiful build, top marks Extremescape, and thank you!
Deadlocked: The Magic of New Orleans (Loughborough)
Great puzzles, lovely design, and some fun extras made this a game that we were sad to have finished. Be careful though, this game could turn out to be expensive, I think the Disney love is back and it’s time we booked another holiday to the happiest place on Earth.
Deadlocked: Vault Squad (Loughborough)
Vault Squad had one of the most unique openings to a standard “heist” theme that I’ve seen, and the amuusement it provided (particualrly when we tripped up) set the tone for the entire game. If you’re in Loughborough, skipping Deadlocked Escape Rooms would be a mistake
Break Escape: The Enchanted Forest (Loughborough)
I don’t know if it was because we were tired or hungry, but we struggled to click with this game. It was pretty and impressive, but the puzzles, particularly the search element, just left us feeling deflated.
Break Escape: Boiling Point (Loughborough)
While Boiling Point is probably not the game that I would be most likely to recommend to anyone that only had time for one Break Escape game, it was my second favourite of the four we played at the venue, and would be my recommendation for those that love a decent puzzle game, provided you don’t mind a slightly odd story line.
Break Escape: Nerve Klinik (Loughborough)
If being terrorised isn’t your cup of tea, then Nerve Klinik is probably one to avoid. However, if you’re a fan of scare attractions and puzzles, then step right up – the doctor will see you now.
Break Escape: The Sands of Time (Loughborough)
We should have performed better in this room than we did, but it was still enjoyable and this would be a great room for family groups to play, even enthusiasts should have a good time
Top Escape Rooms: No Place Like Gnome (Worcester)
The perfect game to end our visit to Top Escape Rooms, No Place Like Gnome was fun from start to end and was a beautifully assembled room with a lighthearted and family friendly feel to it.
Top Escape Rooms: The Dentist (Worcester)
I am overdue for a visit to the dentist, but I don’t think The Dentist at Top Escape Rooms is the best place for a check up. But if you’re looking for solid puzzles and a few thrills and chills, then it might just be what you’re looking for.
Top Escape Rooms: Sea Quest (Worcester)
Considering this started life as a box game, it was much more than that and ended up being one of my highlights of the day – admittedly I have a soft spot for pirate games. Sea Quest was a fun game, well hosted, and satisfying to play.
Top Escape Rooms: Jingle Joyride (Worcester)
It’s no surprise that Top Escape Rooms are claiming Jingle Joyride is proving to be one of their most popular games. I think after the year we’ve had, we could all use a little Christmas Cheer, even in the midst of summer, and Jingle Joyride truly was a joy to play
Co-Decode: Captain’s Treasure (Play at Home)
It would be impossible to talk about Captain’s Treasure without using the words delightful, clever, joyous, or perfection. If you are lucky enough to live close enough to Swindon to hire Captain’s Treasure, pick your date and book it now. No really; Book now
Co-Decode: Oldervik Online – Chapter 4, Digging in Disguise (Play at Home)
The games by Co-Decode seem to be under-the-radar due to them being Print and Play, but really they are gems waiting to be discovered. Digging in Disguise, thanks to the improved interface is our favourite Oldervik game so far.
Escape Stations: Humbug Hijinx (Play at Home)
Humbug Hijinx was a sweet little game (yes, that was totally intended.) It’s a little clunky, but there are some solid puzzles, and even better, you’ll find an extra treat waiting for you upon completion.
Deadlocked: Tunnelling Through Time (Play at Home)
Based on actual(ish) events, Tunnelling Through Time combines a bit of time travel with pleasing puzzles, and the magic of the movies to deliver a digital escape like no other. With 100% of the proceeds going directly to The Brunel Museum, I can’t think of a better way to have fun, learn something, and support a great cause; can you?
clueQuest: Operation E.G.G (Play at Home)
Too much chocolate, or not enough, meant that we struggled with the puzzles in Operation E.G.G., but I could see other teams getting through it in no time at all. Likely fun for all the family, hide chapters around the house and make your team work for it!
Escapologic: Contraption (Play at Home)
While I did enjoy Contraption more when we played in person, the online-avatar adaptation was still great fun, and well worth considering for your next remote escape.
Escapologic: Heistakes (Play at Home)
Thanks to the adapted gameplay and story, this game translated really well to the online world. Escapologic are perfectionists and that shows in everything they do. It’s great to have more UK based avatar games coming online, this would be a good choice if you’re looking for a fun avatar game.
Mythologic: The Island (Play at Home)
We really wanted to like this game but found the puzzles really let it down. It could be that the puzzles just didn’t click for us and you may enjoy it. If you do play this game, let us know how you get on.
The Panic Room: The Panic Room (Play at Home)
The Panic Room Puzzle Book Experience was similar to other games of a similar nature from The Panic Room, and had a few puzzling highlights, and a few tricky moments. Just remember: Don’t Panic!
The Panic Room: The Book of Grimm (Play at Home)
Escapers looking for a tangible play at home game that won’t break the bank and isn’t an Exit box would do well to look at the range of Puzzle Books from The Panic Room. The Book of Grimm had some solid puzzles and kept us entertained for well over an hour, while providing a nice dose of nostalgia for some favourite childhood stories
The Panic Room: Frankenstein’s Book (Play at Home)
We had a bit of a love/hate relationship with this game. The idea is great, but we struggled on a few puzzles. Either way, if we’re going away for a break sometime, I could see us taking a couple puzzle books with us
Improbable Escapes: Cure for the Common Zombie (Play at Home)
Can you have wholesome family friendly zombie fun? Apparently you can at Improbable Escapes. Unless of course, you’re concerned about a few severed limbs. I have little doubt that Cure for the Common Zombie would be better in person than remotely, but even online it was still good fun.
clueQuest: Mechanics of the Heart (Play at Home)
I think we could all use a little more love in these trying times, and whether you choose to play Mechanics of the Heart on Valentines Day, or not, the message is the same, and a perfect way to share the love with those you care about.
Omescape: Pursuit of the Assassin Artist (Play at Home)
Unique, funny, surprising, clever, and occasionally shocking, Pursuit of the Assassin Artist was something I didn’t even realise was possible, let alone needed, in an escape game. If companies continue to create games like this, online escape games will persist long after we’re allowed to play in person once again. And I for one, will welcome it
clueQuest: Prison of Memories – Part 1 (Play at Home)
We’ve enjoyed all of the Print+Cut+Escape games from clueQuest, and Prison of Memories – Part 1 was no exception, with its clever puzzles and high production value. Now, to patiently wait for Part 2…
Bewilder Box and Eltham Escape: B.R.U.C.E Saves Christmas (Play at Home)
If you are looking for a festive game that is suitable for the whole family, full of satisfying puzzles, terrible jokes, and of course, mince pies, look no further. B.R.U.C.E. Saves Christmas is a perfect game for a socially distanced holiday gathering
Improbable Escapes: The Hot Chocolate Incident (Play at Home)
Does the perfect Christmas game exist? Well, I can’t say for sure, but if it isn’t, then The Hot Chocolate Incident comes pretty close, and I can’t think of a more perfect way to get into the holiday spirit
Clue HQ: The Hunt for the Clueminati – Part 4: Genesis (Play at Home)
Genesis is another solid offering from Clue HQ, presented in the same format as the earlier games in the series. If you’re on the lookout for something that can be played remotely with ease, you can’t go wrong with any of games in The Hunt for the Clueminati series.
Co-Decode: Oldervik Online – Chapter 3, On Course for Kantawe (Play at Home)
On Course for Kantawe is certainly a mission, with four to six hours of gameplay, and is definitely one for those that are up for a challenge. If you haven’t already played A Jewel in Jeopardy or Operative Onboard, start there. If you have, well then, what are you waiting for?
Hounds Escape: Questionable Ethics (Crawley)
Hounds Escape have managed to take everything that I’ve loved about other venues I’ve visited and games I’ve played and put them all under one roof. Questionable Ethics is a superb game
Paradox Parlours: Maxwell Mysteries – The Disappearing Diamond (Play at Home)
Paradox Parlour’s first play-at-home escape game is as excellent as their first physical escape room, and The Disappearing Diamond is not to be overlooked when planning your next game night. I can only hope that there will be more Maxwell Mysteries to come in future.
Escape Rooms Middlemoor: Peaky Blinders (Highbridge)
Our experience of this room was equal parts frustration and enjoyment, I’m not sure which won out in the end. A few minor tweaks to the game and I think it would be a lot better. Bring your search A-game!
Escape Rooms Middlemoor: Steampunk (Highbridge)
Steam Punk is a decent game – good for escape room newbies, and worth a visit for enthusiasts if you’re in the area anyway. It started out as a good game, but quickly became a bit frustrating
M4 Escapes: Dino Deadlock (Chippenham)
If you’re a fan of dinosaurs and escape rooms then this is a room you must try. A beautiful set, decent puzzles, and a really fun ending made our detour 100% worth it!
Houdini’s: Extinct (Escape from Jurassic Island ) (Southampton)
Extinct is a must-play game. From the moment you start, it’s an adventure, straight through to the heart-pounding conclusion. With an awesome set, tactile and pleasing puzzles, and an intricate narrative, Extinct (Escape from Jurassic Island) is everything I want an escape room to be.
Houdini’s: Escape from Alcatraz (Southampton)
Prison break rooms are probably one of the most common themed rooms out there, but this is one of the better ones. Quite a search heavy room at times, but the puzzles were fair and the signposting was decent
Clue Cracker: Diamond Dogs (Tunbridge Wells)
Diamond Dogs has shown that it’s true you should never judge a book by its cover, proving that a heist game can be adrenaline-fuelled, immersive and exciting; full of twists and turns, inventive puzzles, and with a strong story. TL; DR – this game is fantastic
Lock and Code: The Music Box (Weston-Super-Mare)
While The Music Box isn’t my favourite game from Lock & Code (that honour goes to Dead on the Hour), it’s a solid game. I’d be more inclined to recommend it to escape room newcomers, but even from an enthusiast standpoint, it’s worth a go if you’re in the area.
Lock and Code: Homecoming (Taunton)
Homecoming takes place in a massive space and plays out in a mostly linear fashion. You’re unlikely to be blown away by the set, but you may see a puzzle or two that you haven’t seen before.
clueQuest: Halloween Survival Escape Training (Play at Home)
It’s incredibly important to be able to correctly identify the various creatures that go bump in the night, and know how to respond accordingly. With excellent Halloween theming, family friendly content, clever puzzles, and beautiful artwork, clueQuest’s Halloween Survival Escape Training is a delightful way to to get into the mood for the Spookiest Time of Year
Clue Cracker: Temple Quest (Tunbridge Wells)
There is no doubt that this room is going into both of our Top 10’s, it was great. Great is the word to describe it, great puzzles, great design, great hosts, great fun!
clueQuest: timeQuest Kids, The Earlybirds (Play at Home)
If you have kids who want to try out escape rooms (from home), then this is 100% the one you should try. It’s beautifully assembled, has fun puzzles, offers a mental challenge and has delightful physical interactions. Why didn’t this type of thing exist when I was a kid?!
Deadlocked: The Movember Virtual Moscape Room (Play at Home)
With a catchy theme song, immersive narrative, wacky humour, and clever puzzles, not to mention achievements to unlock and a nifty completion certificate, there’s nothing not to love about The Movember Virtual Escape Room
Puzzalogical: The Secret of the Vault (Bracknell)
A good use of tech, and two tools/props that were very satisfying to use will give us something to remember this room by. A couple of ‘trial-and-error’ puzzles are ones we’d rather forget.
clueQuest: Print+Cut+Escape – Episode 3: Humanity 2.0 (Play at Home)
clueQuest have added another excellent play-at-home option to their already stellar collection. Humanity 2.0 continues the narrative begun with Stolen IQ, and takes the series through to its conclusion
Escape from the Room: Return of Old Maid Milly (Epsom)
This was our first post-lockdown physical escape room, and it was a good one. Escape from the Room have upped their game and we would have no problems recommending this room
Hysteria: The Forgotten Realm II (Play at Home)
Ignoring some questionable accents, this was a fun game and arguably the best online game we’ve played by Hysteria so far. I could easily see this game being a family favourite
Bewilder Box & Eltham Escape: Sector X: The B.R.U.C.E. Project Part 2 (Play at Home)
Part 2 of The B.R.U.C.E. Project was a fun game and provided a sense of closure to the narrative that began with Part 1
Marvo Mysteries: M.A.R.V.O Archives Phase Two (Play at Home)
Phase One lacked puzzles and felt like a warm up act for something bigger. Phase Two was the headliner, and delivered on the earlier promises
Live Escape Salisbury: POD (Play at Home)
This was a really fun room and is very reasonably priced. With great signposting, clever puzzles, and a really fun set, it is worth doing! Get it booked before it is gone!
Improbable Escapes: Neverland: Heist on the High Seas (Play at Home)
This game was as fun as it was beautiful and is an instant favourite of ours. The use of technology to push forward the story was inspired and something we haven’t seen before in a room. This is one room that we would recommend without any hesitation!
Hysteria: Project Blue Book (Play at Home)
A few frustrating puzzles and a weak clue system meant that at times we were annoyed and our enjoyment waned. However, looking back at this game we can see that some puzzles were actually quite clever and our perseverance paid off to make a mostly enjoyable experience
Co-Decode: Oldervik Online – Chapter 2, Operative Onboard (Play at Home)
This game improved on the first and those subtle changes made for a smoother experience. If you’re looking for a print and play that is slightly different to the rest, then this is it
The Panic Room: CSI: Stranglehold (Play at Home)
CSI: Stranglehold was the strongest of the games in the CSI series from The Panic Room (that we’ve played), and was reminiscent of a detective/murder mystery live escape game, making me strangely nostalgic for one
Marvo Mysteries: M.A.R.V.O Archives Phase One (Play at Home)
This was a good game, but it could have been great. We felt like it ended just as it was getting going and felt a bit miffed when it was over. It’s definitely worth playing as it is beautifully put together and is a wonder to behold, but I wouldn’t set aside much time to complete it.
Get Lost Dover: Operation Paranormal Research Anomaly Taskforce (Play at Home)
This game put puzzles and fun ahead of everything else and created a really fun, family-friendly game. The websites are rough around the edges but functional and everything worked as it should. Well done Get Lost!
Clue HQ: The Hunt for the Clueminati – Part 3: Orpheus (Play at Home)
Fans of Astra and Chronicle won’t be disappointed by the latest offering from Clue HQ, and if you’re looking for a digital multiplayer experience that also manages to be non-linear, look no further.
Clue Cracker: The Haunting of Harlequin House (Play at Home)
The Haunting of Harlequin House is the most complex of the Clue Cracker online games filled with more intricate and multi-layered puzzles. This, plus the slightly more sinister theme, may mean it’s one to skip if you often play with very young children, but definitely not one to miss if you don’t (or once you’ve put them to bed if you do)
Deadlocked: The Cyphstress (Play at Home)
Deadlocked don’t do things by halves, and The Cyphstress is a work of art, with beautiful design, clever and complex puzzles, a strong narrative, all subtly blended with the mythology behind Siren Craft Brew
The Panic Room: Mainstage Mayhem (Play at Home)
A fun room but probably one of the easier games by the Panic Room. With decent theming, storyline and puzzles, it will keep you entertained for a little while
The Panic Room: CSI: Mafia Murders (Play at Home)
With lots of evidence to work through, decent puzzles, and a solid ending; if you want a game that will make you feel like a detective, then this game is a good shout.
The Panic Room: Mansion Impossible (Play at Home)
Mansion Impossible is a fun, family-friendly way to spend an hour or two. With a lovely little homage to live escape games that made me giggle with delight, this was my second favourite of the digital games on offer from The Panic Room, but it only just missed out on being my favourite.
The Panic Room: My Dearest Emily (Play at Home)
My Dearest Emily is easily my favourite of the online offerings from The Panic Room. With a lovely story, a bit of history, trickier puzzles, and some beautiful illustrations, what’s not to love?
Clue HQ: The Hunt for the Cluminati – Part 2: Chronicle (Play at Home)
Chronicle took the strengths of Astra, and improved on any weaknesses. If you haven’t played any of The Hunt for the Cluminati series yet, you’re missing out
The Panic Room: CSI: Grounded (Play at Home)
If you’re looking for a game to introduce someone to the world of online escaping, CSI: Grounded is a good choice, with a few “easy win” puzzles, bolstered by a few more difficult tasks to keep things interesting
Clue HQ: The Hunt for the Clueminati – Part 1: Astra (Play at Home)
ClueHQ have done a great job in providing an online escape experience that teams can all participate in at the same time and solve puzzles simultaneously. With a couple of tweaks to how you interact with the puzzles it would be pretty close to perfect
clueQuest: Print+Cut+Escape – Episode 2: Alpha Brain System (Play at Home)
clueQuest have turned the difficulty up to 11 for this game and that will likely give you love/hate feelings towards it. We loved it and it kept us occupied for nearly 2 hours, which for £12 is a bargain. If you want a challenge, give it a try!
Clue Cracker: Fairground Felony (Play at Home)
In terms of difficulty this is a step (or five) up from their other online experiences but it still features the same quality of story throughout, and has puzzles that will give your brain a good workout
Clue Cracker: The Disappearance of DJ McDee (Play at Home)
If you’re looking for a game to dip your toes into the water of virtual escape rooms, look no further! The Disappearance of DJ McDee is a great way to try out the format before committing to Clue Cracker’s paid games (which are also highly enjoyable.) And yes, the song is really catchy
The Escapement: The Network (Play at Home)
With a well thought out story, great puzzles, and beautifully curated parts, The Network gets you as close to immersion as possible for a play at home game.
Co-Decode: Oldervik Online: Chapter 1 – A Jewel In Jeopardy (Play at Home)
While playing this game, one of our team proclaimed “this is the most like a real escape room experience we have had so far”, and to be honest I think it is a good call
Clue Cracker: Escape from Extinction Island (Play at Home)
On the easier side for enthusiasts, but perfect for the family. All in all, it’s a great intro to remote escaping and scratched a little bit of the escape room itch we’ve been feeling – and there was a dinosaur!
Eltham Escape Rooms: The Temple of the Lost Spirit (London)
Eltham Escape Rooms have clearly upped their game in terms of set design with this room, aiming for full immersion, with an impressively decorated set and the more tactile puzzles, allowing the game to become a true adventure.
Bewilder Box & Eltham Escape: Sector X: The B.R.U.C.E. Project – Part 1
Take a pinch of Bewilder Box, a dash of Eltham Escapes and mix it together with a healthy dollop of fun. Throw in a perfectly blended use of technology, and you have the recipe for a great time.
clueQuest: Print+Cut+Escape – Episode 1: Stolen IQ (Play at Home)
A solid game that was incredibly well priced at £12 for the print at home version. Puzzles ranged in style and difficulty and many were actually similar in style to those that one would find in a live escape experience
Deadlocked: The Insiders (Play at Home)
If you haven’t already been convinced to try The Insiders, I don’t know what else I can say. It is without a doubt the best play at home game we have taken on to date. The Insiders is surprisingly immersive, incredibly clever, and just downright fun
TimeTrap: Pudding Lane (Reading)
We enjoyed Imaginarium, and loved Station X, but Pudding Lane is by far one of our favourite games on offer at TimeTrap, cementing itself a place in Liz’s Top Ten Escape Rooms list
Escape Reading: Blown Away (Reading)
Despite not being ‘blown away’ by this room, it was an enjoyable experience and kept us engaged well. Take your communication ‘A-game’ with you and you’ll have a good time.
The Panic Room: The Tomb (Harlow)
The Tomb had promise to be great, and it probably once was. For us, it needed some TLC to bring back those past glories. Still a room that will be a hit with the kids
The Panic Room: The Panic Room (Harlow)
Is it the most amazing game I’ve ever played? No. Is it fun, and a reminder of the sort of experiences that I had at the start of my escaping career that made me fall in love with this crazy hobby in the first place? Absolutely
The Panic Room: Strikeforce (Harlow)
Strikeforce isn’t likely to win any awards for design or creativity, but I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this room to teams looking to play for the first time. It’s a solid room, but I do think that your GM could make it or break it for you. Fortunately, ours made it
The Panic Room: CSI – The Mafia Murders (Harlow)
A bit run down in places and we think it used to do more than it currently does, CSI will keep you busy and isn’t a bad way to spend your hour, but one puzzle needs ‘fixing’
Escape Nation: Incognito’s Secret Lair (Stafford)
We chose Incognito’s Secret Lair to be our 200th room, so no pressure. This room had a good mix of puzzles and we can easily see this being a family favourite (equally good as a two though!)
Escape Nation: The Citadel (Stafford)
With an impressive narrative driving the game forward, tasks hinted at what might have befallen the Citadel. Strong puzzles, great GMs and strong narrative, The Citadel was incredibly enjoyable.
Escape in the Towers: The Comms Room (Canterbury)
We can’t say enough how much we loved this room. We never felt like we were playing a game, it actually felt as though we were saving War-era Canterbury, and the epic conclusion here is one not to be missed!
TimeQuest: The Quest to Save Camelot (Paddock Wood)
Going into this room I didn’t expect it to be my favourite at TimeQuest, but it was. The outside-of-the-box thinking and the heavy search element made this very enjoyable for us, and the attention to detail was also refreshing.
TimeQuest: Saving Operation Neptune (Paddock Wood)
One of the most impressive aspects of the games at TimeQuest is the sheer amount of physical space devoted to each game, and Saving Operation Neptune was no exception. It would be possible to fit at least two games in the space given to Neptune
TimeQuest: Reset (Paddock Wood)
This is a very different offering to the others at TimeQuest and those looking for a tech heavy room that mostly steers away from padlocks should be in their element
Escape Hub: The Curse of Curawood’s Garden (Maidstone)
We have absolutely no reservations adding The Curse of Curawood’s Garden to the list of rooms that would be enjoyed by players of all ages, young and old alike. Play it, and get lost in Curawood’s world
Escape Hub: Inbound (Maidstone)
A massive step in quality over the earlier games at Escape Hub. Inbound has great set design, good puzzles, and a wonderful journey through the streets of ‘York’
Escape Hub: Mr Brenchley: Diamond Theft (Maidstone)
The weakest of the games we played at Escape Hub. With some much better games on offer in Maidstone, and at Escape Hub itself, I would suggest that teams keen to play all of the games play this one first and move on to better options.
Escape Hub: The Laughing Lair (Maidstone)
This wasn’t a bad room, and we actually had a fun time (especially with the ending). But with a few too many padlocks and a little too much wear-and-tear we feel like this room may be slightly past its prime.
Mythologic: Hypnos (Gillingham)
Hypnos is darker than their other room but has interesting and challenging puzzles. A number of padlocks around the place but a good use of tech breaks them up nicely and keeps it engaging
Mythologic: The Game (Gillingham)
Great fun for adults and kids, but between the theme, the set, and the types of puzzles and tasks throughout The Game, this room is one of our top picks if you’re looking for something the entire family can get involved with
Get Lost: Director’s Cut (Dover)
Perhaps we’re biased because Get Lost’s room always seem to ‘click’ with us, but we thoroughly enjoyed this room and thought the set design was very impressive. Always love a uniquely themed room!
Hysteria: Aftermath (Chatham)
For us, this room felt like an odd crossover between Jurassic Park and a zombie film – and it worked! Good puzzles in a variety of styles and great set design to boot
Deadlocked: The Time Machine (Reading)
With only 60 seconds to fix the time machine, this isn’t your ordinary room. Technically a 90 minute experience, sci-fi fans will likely find lots to love about The Time Machine (we did)
Hysteria: Motel California (Chatham)
Motel California is a fun room at a company run by enthusiastic and passionate owners. While there is nothing stand out about this room, we enjoyed every minute we spent in it.
Clue Adventures: Jet 2 Space (London)
Whether you’re an escape enthusiast or it’s your first time, if you’re looking for a two-player game in London, or just looking for something a bit outside the norm for date night, you can’t go wrong with Jet 2 Space
Clue HQ: Detonation (Somerton)
A room that won’t blow you away (no pun intended) and is very padlock heavy, but if your observational skills are on point then you’ll likely have a good time.
Clue HQ: Cell Block C (Somerton)
We haven’t done many but this was the best ClueHQ room we’ve done so far. Good room design and only one annoying puzzle, not a bad way to spend an hour
Lock and Code: Can Opener (Taunton)
A few too many red herrings and generally puzzles that just didn’t click with us meant that we didn’t particularly enjoy our time in this prison van – but that’s the idea of prison vans, right?
The Panic Room: Carnevil (Harlow)
A fun room that’s a full-on assault on the senses! We had a great time in Carnevil and particularly enjoyed the more physical aspects of the room. Possibly one of our favourite ‘Panic Room’ rooms.
Red House Mysteries: On The Last Train to Paris (Torquay)
Probably the best of the games at Red House (both locations), but a weak ending with annoying puzzles made this a train we were pleased to get off
Red House Mysteries: The Strange Disappearance of Arthur Moon (Torquay)
The theming for this room was fun but weak puzzles that were easily bypassed and a lack of atmosphere took away from the excitement we should have experienced, and one GM for multiple rooms is never a good way to go.
Red House Mysteries: The Shadow Darkens (Exeter)
A very traditional room which suffered from the usual GM issues and some potentially glitchy tech. We completed in 25 minutes even after being slowed down by issues
Red House Mysteries: The Heist (Exeter)
A room with a solid premise but ultimately the execution was lacking. Couple that with a distracted GM and it doesn’t make for the best experience
Get Lost: Elfy Strikes Again (Dover)
A lovely Christmas room that is sure to be fun for all the family. Mostly traditional but with a strong ending, it’s a perfect Christmas room!
AIM Escape: Psychopath’s Den (London)
Good set design and a mix of puzzles that has plenty to keep you going. We felt let down by our GM but if your GM is on the ball then you’re sure to enjoy your time in ‘the den’
Escape Plan Ltd: Roll Out the Barrel (London)
We loved Battle for Britain and although this room didn’t quite reach the greatness of that room, it’s a good room which we thoroughly enjoyed. Puzzles were logical, it was fun to be in, the ending was strong and the hosting was spot-on
Escape Plan Ltd: The Adventure Begins (London)
The Adventure Begins is a fantastic game with clever puzzles, a great set, and some really fun moments. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this room to teams that are trying to find their first escape room or to enthusiasts, particularly those that want to try their hand at their first room as a team of two.
Live Escape Salisbury: Spectre (Salisbury)
People often visit Salisbury due to the proximity of some ‘large standing rocks’, but ditch the rocks and make Live Escape your destination, you won’t regret it.
Trapp’d: Monosphere (Northampton)
The Monosphere probably won’t be winning any awards, but we found it enjoyable. What we were most impressed by is how Trapp’d have managed to keep it so clean given the amount of white in a room located next door to Molten Creek Mine!
Trapp’d: Molten Creek Mine (Northampton)
Yet another fun room from Trapp’d, not their best, but equally not their worst. Be prepared to get dirty so make sure you don’t do this room before a night out! A fun use of tech and on-theme puzzles made this an enjoyable room
Trapp’d: 46 Below (Billing Aquadrome)
A fun room with strong set design and a good story to follow. Families (particularly kids) will love this room! A bit of wear-and-tear that needs to be fixed, but we enjoyed it regardless
Trapp’d: Dead on Arrival (Billing Aquadrome)
We wouldn’t recommend Dead on Arrival to someone that has never played an escape game before, but we enjoyed it, escaping in about 33 minutes, which leads us to conclude that the puzzles are sound, and it’s worth giving it a go.
Trapp’d: Exordium (Billing Aquadrome)
A good warm-up room for enthusiasts or a great family room. On the easier side so enthusiasts will probably fly through it, but it’s enjoyable and has some nice design touches that we haven’t seen elsewhere
Hour Escape Rooms: The Black Diamond (Peterborough)
Having found ourselves often frustrated in Stranger Things, The Black Diamond was a wonderful change of pace with logical puzzles with clear sign posting where required and an enjoyable finish
Hour Escape Rooms: Stranger Things (Peterborough)
A fun room with some nice 80s touches. Decent puzzles but ultimately let down by red herrings and an over abundance of sign-posting. A few tweaks to the puzzles, and perhaps the clue system and this could be a great room
Escape Peterborough: The Great Wine Cellar Swindle (Peterborough)
This room won’t blow you away but we did have fun, just not as much as at their other location. The star of the show was the vault itself, the room was an acceptable way to spend 30 minutes
Escape Peterborough: The Hunt (Peterborough)
I would encourage enthusiasts to tackle this in smaller groups, or some of the team will likely find that they miss out on much of the action. However, the linear structure, and the more traditional escape room-style logic and observational puzzles make this an ideal room for new players
Escape Peterborough: Escape the Seven Seas (Peterborough)
If you’ve done rooms at Escape Peterborough before then this room will be nothing like them. They’ve really upped their game with this room and the only rival for it there is The Cabin. Good theming, decent puzzles (although padlock heavy), but swash-buckling fun
Escape Peterborough: The Cabin (Peterborough)
Even standing in the hallway, it’s clear that the set design for this game is leagues above the games we had played here previously. The Cabin is a solid, well thought out room, and worth playing if you’re planning to visit Peterborough.
Tricky Escape: The Damned (Clacton-on-Sea)
The Damned has firmly staked out its place as a horror room, but with friendly owners you can probably tone this down if you’re not a fan of jump scares and live actors. Ignoring the horror bits, it’s a solid room with flowing puzzles and fun from the very start to the end.
Tricky Escape: A Race Against Time (Clacton-on-Sea)
This felt like the weakest of the rooms at this location. It could really do with a refresh as it is very worn in a number of places, but if you like the 80s then you’ll probably have fun.
Tricky Escape: Magic and Mystery (Clacton-on-Sea)
Tricky Escape’s Magic and Mystery clearly has elements inspired by a certain series about a young wizard, while still managing to be original, and is a well-themed, family-friendly room
Doomsday Games: Pathogen (Colchester)
In a market filled with 60-minute games, Pathogen is one of the rarer 90-minute experiences, and it certainly sets the bar high. The game was highly immersive, with excellent theming, and clever puzzles
XscapeNow: Sweeney Todd (Telford)
A ’fun’ take on the rather grim Sweeney Todd story. Decent puzzles, good design, and a good flow. We struggled, but we’re not really sure why
Incarcerated: The Tortured Soul (Swindon)
This room was much better than we expected and as a creepy (not really horror) room, it was good fun. The only bit that was lacking was the ending. I’m sure it’s not easy to make exiting into a corridor fun, but it was just a bit anticlimactic
M4 Escapes: The Bunker (Chippenham)
A beautiful room (in places) but the generally weak puzzles let it down. A confusing journey and too many red herrings made us more annoyed than anything else
Trapp’d: Dead Man’s Cove (Kettering)
This room was the highlight of the day for me. I know VX2.0 seems to be getting more love right now, but this room is fun, traditional, and just generally well put together
Trapp’d: VX 2.0 (Kettering)
You’ve got to give Trapp’d credit for what they’ve done with this room. They’ve tried to do something different, and they have. If it wasn’t for a jumpy GM we’d have probably enjoyed this room more than we did
Trapp’d: Abigail (Kettering)
Yes, Abigail is creepy, and there are a few attempts at jump scares, but this, for us at least, was not a true horror experience, and was more of a well done paranormal themed room
Paradox Parlours: Missing in Action (Dorking)
We loved this room and enjoyed every moment in it. It’s a cracker of a room and even in a team of five there was plenty to keep us all busy
Access Escape: Dark Magik (London)
The key selling point of this room is the darkness. Take that away and you’ll be disappointed. But as it is, it’s a room that’s worth doing just to really test yourself. Try it, you’ll be surprised.
The Extraction Room: Extraction (Maidstone)
I was impressed with Extraction. It was a fun, and interesting If the first game from the Extraction Room team is anything to go by, if they decide to expand and design more games, I can only wait with anticipation to see what they come up with.
Co-Decode: Sub Terra (Swindon)
Sub Terra was a delight from start to finish. With a strong story that’s reenforced by a fantastic set, and great puzzles, it has firmly secured a place on my list of Top Ten Favourite rooms (to date). If you haven’t made the trip to Co-Decode yet, what are you waiting for?
Trapp’d: Motel (Corby)
This was a straight-up horror room, there’s no denying that. But the puzzles flowed and we had fun, even with the live actor tormenting us at every turn. Horror fans will love it
Trapp’d: Maine State Prison (Corby)
When it was new this was probably a decent room. Unfortunately in its old age it has lost its way and become a bit frustrating. Couple the frustration with tired props and it’s good it’s set for retirement.
Trapp’d: Reanimation (Corby)
A decent room that is definitely good for beginners and has enough fun to keep you going. Decent puzzles and theming made for an enjoyable experience.
Pressure Point: The Moonlit Wild (Ashford)
Pressure Point seem to have nailed developing games which manage to have not just good game play, but take you from the beginning, through to a peak, and finally a good, solid ending
Pressure Point: Broken (Ashford)
A solid room where you’re trying to barricade yourself in rather than escape. I preferred their other rooms but this was still a good room with decent puzzles and a solid ending.
Pressure Point: Murder on the Dance Floor (Ashford)
Pressure Point have designed a special game, full of humour and clever puzzles, with a fantastic set and fun music, and we’re just sad that we can’t play it again
Time Run Presents: Sherlock: The Game Is Now (London)
This was a fun experience, but for us at least it wasn’t worth the money and was over-hyped. Sherlock enthusiasts will probably love it, escape room enthusiasts will probably find it like Marmite.
Time Lock: Deutschland ‘89 (Worthing)
Everyone knows Brighton has good rooms, it’s nice to see that Worthing can hold its own too. This is a solid room with a great team behind it and it’s 100% worth trekking out from Brighton to do
Pier Pressure: Pavilion Perplex (Brighton)
Overall, this is a wonderful game; visually appealing with varied and interesting puzzles, and a clever clue system, but on top of that, it just flowed nicely and had a nice clear finale
Pier Pressure: Raver Quest (Brighton)
Pier Pressure have created a room that is 100% fun and if you like some classic old school tunes, you’ll have a great time. Fun puzzles and a top soundtrack will give you a time to remember.
Containment: The Lab (Worplesdon)
‘Difficulty by Darkness’ is how we’d describe this room. In addition to the darkness, the game felt as though it had a number of red-herrings, with several things in the room that we never did find combinations or keys for
Containment: The Bomb (Worplesdon)
Sadly, this room just didn’t live up to our expectations from the Sub; it was fun to play, and while there are no obvious problems with the game, it just lacked any sort of wow-factor.
Improbable Escapes: Legend of the Mayan Temple (Kingston, ON)
A fun room, with solid puzzles but was unfortunately let down by a truly terrible clue system
Containment: The Sub (Worplesdon)
A room that’s strongest point was it’s theming, it does well to include relevant props and decor that help immerse you. Tricky at times but doable, this was our preferred room of the three at this venue
Clue Cracker: Jail Break (Tunbridge Wells)
We don’t normally detour to venues with just one room, but as we’d heard good things about Jail Break at Clue Cracker we decided to make an exception and swing by Tunbridge Wells – it was worth it.
Clever Dilemma: Murder at the Wild Wild Quest Saloon (Faversham)
Fun puzzles, a beautiful set, and a story that keeps you guessing right up to the end – get to Faversham and do this room! Certainly one of the best wild west rooms around!
Trapped: The Bletchley Blueprints (Okehampton)
This is one of those rooms that is difficult to review. It’s a good room, but I didn’t overly enjoy it and I’m not sure why. Give it a try and make up your own mind
Trapped: Templars – The Secret Service (Okehampton)
Templars possibly ranks as the hardest room we’ve ever done. We’ve seen other teams getting decent times so it obviously just didn’t click for us. Give it a try if you want a challenge
Adventox: Mission X (London)
Out of the three rooms at Adventox this is by far the weakest. Feeling tired and dated it could do with a bit of a revamp. Couple that with weak puzzles and it’s not a room we’ll be recommending unless you’re really desperate for that escape room fix.
Adventox: Haunted – The Curse of Dr Stevens (London)
Tucked away in a mall overshadowed by Westfields, ‘Haunted’ by Adventox was our favourite room at this location. Solid set design and a fun flow – it’s worth checking out
Adventox: Alcatraz (London)
Alcatraz was a solid, enjoyable game, but it ultimately fell a bit flat for us. It’s tough to put a finger on exactly what it was; whether it was the ending in general, or just the fact that it wasn’t quite as much fun as their other room, ‘Haunted’
Mission Breakout: The Lost Passenger (London)
Mission Breakout’s website proclaims their games to be the most immersive in London. While the set and integrated puzzles certainly lend weight to that claim, we don’t feel like we can agree
Mission Breakout: Codebreakers (London)
This room promised a lot but ultimately fell flat in many areas. Perhaps one wow moment in the entire game but even that couldn’t help this room rank higher for us.
Paradox Parlours: Venus (Guildford)
This room instantly went into our Top 10 and it will be there for some time. Strong puzzles, hilarity, and wonderful GM, this is a room not to miss. Flash Gordon for the win!
TimeTrap: Imaginarium (Reading)
A really fun room that encapsulates the spirit of Alice in Wonderland perfectly. Puzzles on theme, set looking great, generally just a good room all round
TimeTrap: Station X (Reading)
TimeTrap have created an excellent experience with clever puzzles, excellent set design, and a massive amount of fun. I’m only disappointed that it took us so long to make it to Reading; Station X is one not to miss!
Knockout Escape Rooms: The Curious Cabin (Reading)
This is one of those rooms that you enter and think you know what you’re getting but then it finds ways to surprise you and fill you with excitement. On the surface it looks like a simple room but behind the scenes there is a lot of tech working hard to keep you on your toes
Deadlocked: The Testing Chamber (Reading)
There are no less than four ways this game could end, depending entirely on the choices made by the players, which could cause many to have a love/hate relationship with this room, and some might find that the existential dilemma created for them by the room is perhaps the most difficult aspect.
Deadlocked: The Phoenix Research (Reading)
In places this was a very hard room, at times it was frustrating, but in the end it was fun. A lot of time was spent on immersing you in the story, and the ending was something a little different
Lucardo: Espionage (Manchester)
This room certainly won’t give you any surprises, nor will it wow you, but it is still a decent room. For us though, this was the weakest of the rooms at Lucardo (Manchester) – but they had set the bar high.
Lucardo: University of Magic: The Entrance Exam (Manchester)
Due to bad experiences in the past we tend to stay away from magic themed rooms, but this one has restored our faith. Now we need to head to the Lucardo Rawtenstall branch to check out the sequel!
Lucardo: The Prison (Manchester)
A prison break is nothing new theme-wise, but this game was immersive and realistic and on a completely different level to not only to other similarly themed games, but also everything else on offer at Lucardo.
Lucardo: Virginia House (Manchester)
With the types of puzzles and the design choices, I would say this game is perfectly suited to small groups of enthusiasts (perhaps those that want to try their first room as a two) or larger groups of new players.
Lucardo: Gem Runner (Manchester)
Gem Runner is heavy on the ‘traditional’ escape room puzzles, with plenty of padlocks, codes, and searching and is not a tech heavy room. I could easily see this being a favourite with family groups, or even two person enthusiast groups like us.
Escape Experience Windsor: Area 51 (Windsor)
We got possibly our quickest ever escape time in this room, partially because the puzzles just clicked, but also because there wasn’t that many of them. A fun room but don’t do it in a large group or you may not have much to do
Escape Experience Windsor: Crown Jewel Heist (Windsor)
This is a fun room, although arguably on the easier side. If you’re in the area anyway, you’ll have a good time, but don’t go with a large and experienced team
Lock & Code: Dead on the Hour (Taunton)
Lock & Code rooms won’t blow you away but they are solid rooms that will give you an hour of fun. Dead on the Hour was fun, and at times challenging, but once again we left Lock & Code with smiles on our faces
LetsXcape: Sacred (Newark)
Costumes, puzzles, and one of the nicest owner/GMs you’ll ever meet. We preferred The Rig but Sacred is a very good room and has plenty to keep you occupied
Cave Escape: Carfax (Nottingham)
Carfax is a great room and it excelled in room design. Surrounded by the natural stone walls of the cave, the rest of the set was used to enhance this already impressive setting
Escapologic: Crypt-ic (Nottingham)
“Like real-life Indiana Jones” that’s what we were promised. It was certainly an adventure through a dark, creepy crypt, but luckily for us (and Indy) there were no snakes
Escapologic: Heistakes (Nottingham)
This is a fun room, but due to how linear it is and the lack of puzzles we probably wouldn’t advise it for large teams, especially if those teams are experienced. It’s definitely a room to give a go though as it is visually impressive.
Escapologic: Butcher (Nottingham)
![Escapologic: 13utcher [Butcher] (Nottingham)](https://www.reviewtheroom.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/butcher-150x150.jpg)
This room is not one for the faint hearted and if you’re of a nervous disposition it’s probably one to avoid. However, if you want a room that it a bit different and will not only challenge your mind but also your bladder control, then give it a go!
Escapologic: Contraption (Nottingham)
Like most of the rooms at Escapologic this was a linear room with very strong set design. Don’t get distracted by all the funky items and you should be fine
LetsXcape: The Rig (Newark)
You’ll be hard pushed to find a room with a better story, and you definitely won’t find a better setting for a room. This room lived up to it’s impressive venue and is well worth a visit/detour
Escape Rooms: Room 33 (London)
This room won’t blow you away but if you want a solid room that will give you an hours entertainment, then this is that (added bonus: free sweets!)
Escapologic: Howitz (Nottingham)
Howitz is gritty, grimey, dimly lit, and full of jump scares and some really creepy toys, but if I were to give it a rating like a movie, it would receive a PG-13.
Escapologic: Curio (Nottingham)
This room delivers something that you probably won’t have seen anywhere else. No spoilers – a fun room with some very impressive room design and definitely one you won’t forget
Bewilder Box: Judgement D.A.V.E (Brighton)
The rooms at The Bewilder Box are more than just escape rooms, they are experiences where everything works together to immerse you in their world. Each time you think you know what to expect they do something different, wonderful, and unexpected.
Bewilder Box: The Bewilder Box Initiative (Brighton)
If you’re like us, and putting off a visit to Bewilder Box, stop right now, and find the time to just do it! The Bewilder Box Initiative instantly became a favourite of ours
Tulleys Escape Rooms: Dodge City (Crawley)
Another beautiful Tulleys room but ultimately let down by reset issues. Give the room a try, but probably wait a while for them to get it running smoothly – we should have waited.
Eltham Escape Rooms: Keep Calm! (London)
Enthusiasts shouldn’t struggle with this room and probably won’t find anything they haven’t seen before in terms of puzzles, but it’s worth doing if for no other reason than the final challenge.
Escape60: Serial Killer’s Lair (Folkestone)
A fun room but generally nothing exciting to reflect on. Probably a good beginners room but enthusiasts will have seen better.
Escape 60: The Compactor (Folkestone)
The compactor had a very industrial feel, and was certainly visually impressive. There were a few surprises here and there, which kept things interesting, but generally it didn’t live up to expectations.
Get Lost Escape Rooms: The Abandoned Cottage (Dover)
Get Lost Dover currently have three rooms and each is fun in their own way. This was my least favourite of their rooms, but don’t let that fool you, it’s worth doing and does enough to keep you on your toes
Get Lost Escape Rooms: The World Fair Hotel (Dover)
Have you ever done a room where every puzzle just clicked for you? Like you were in the mind of the room’s designer? That’s exactly what happened for us in this room and we enjoyed every minute of it
Get Lost Escape Rooms: The Krevokar Programme (Dover)
Our first room at Get Lost Escape Rooms and it set the bar high for the others. This room felt like we were experiencing a Resident Evil in real life. A fun game from start to finish
Elusion Rooms: The Pandora Heist (Southampton)
This is a fun room with a slightly different twist to most escape rooms. We weren’t a big fan of the format, but like Marmite, you’ll probably love it or hate it
Escape Plan: Battle For Britain (London)
Do you ever put off doing something because you really want to do it but you feel that the expectation may not live up to the hype? That is why it has taken us so long to do Battle for Britain, now I wish we’d done it sooner!
The MacGuffin Project: The Magician (Bournemouth)
A short and arguably easy room that should probably be a 45 min experience rather than 60. A pretty average room with above average GMs but a weak ending. We expected more from MacGuffin.
Thinking Outside the Box: Retro (Peterborough)
I loved this room, I really did. Retrogaming memories are my weakness and this room exploited them to the max
Thinking Outside the Box: Magician’s Apprentice (Peterborough)
Everything in the room was on theme, and puzzles were logical. This is a fun room, that although perhaps a little ‘home-made’ is still worth the visit
Ctrl Alt Esc: Detention (Margate)
Detention was beautifully designed, with a good flow, and just simply, good fun, ticking all my boxes for a wonderful room.
Clever Dilemma: Dracula’s Chamber (Faversham)
A great room with welcoming hosts and a very good GM. Faversham is beautiful, but this room really makes it worth visiting
Escape Peterborough: Contagion (Peterborough)
If you’re lucky enough to get a good GM then this is a solid room and one we would happily recommend to enthusiasts
Escape Peterborough: Witchcraft & Wizardry (Peterborough)
If things were running smoothly this is probably an ok room, particularly for children or new players. But if you’re an enthusiast I think you’ll find this room rather lacking and one to avoid.
Escape Peterborough: Espionage (Peterborough)
While we did escape, it was only just managed, and we were left feeling a bit deflated, due to both the quality of the puzzles and the attentiveness of the GM
Trapp’d: Red Rock (Peterborough)
This room is massive, and while we successfully completed it as a two, this would definitely be well suited to, and fun for, a larger group.
Trapp’d: Madame Curio’s Cirque Delirium (Peterborough)
Lacking in backstory this room makes up for it in the excitement it delivers at all points. Easier puzzles but good for all ages (except maybe the really old).
clueQuest: CQoriGENES (London)
This room has almost everything I look for in an escape room: beautiful set design, clever puzzles, enough narrative to drive the game forward, and just a bit of humour
Tulleys Escape Rooms: Mutiny (Crawley)
According to Tulleys’ website, this is the easiest of their rooms. I would tend to agree, and think it would be an excellent choice for both enthusiasts and newcomers, alike
Tulleys Escape Rooms: The Outfitters (Crawley)
Probably the third best room at Tulleys, strangely we found this one harder than Nethercott Manor despite this being classed as easier by Tulleys
Incarcerated: Cops and Robbers (Swindon)
If you’re looking for a corporate team building exercise then this is probably a good room. If you’re an enthusiast then it isn’t
Tulleys Escape Rooms: Nethercott Manor (Crawley)
Tulleys have clearly spent an inordinate amount of both time and money to make this an experience that you are not likely to forget, and it has certainly paid off
Co-Decode: Professor Dunstan and the Search for the Ancient Statuette (Swindon)
Don’t wait to be passing by Swindon to do this room. Make it your destination, it’s worth it!
Ctrl Alt Esc: Frankenscape (Margate)
We thought their other room ‘Spacescape’ was great – this was better! A solid room with an impressive ending
The Escapement: Egyptian Exodus (Margate)
The team have clearly put a lot of thought into this experience, and Exodus is one not to be missed.
Ctrl Alt Esc: Spacescape (Margate)
A tech heavy room that has a very impressive ending. One of the many rooms that is worth doing in Margate
The Escapement: The Pit (Margate)
Even when you’re receiving the briefing for this room you know it is going to be something special. This isn’t just a 60 minute experience, this is a game changer.
The Escapement: Pirates of Polaris (Margate)
This room is beautiful, it really is, and when a room uses genuine artifacts there is no doubt you are in for a treat
Archimedes Inspiration: Project Delta (London)
AI Escapes are really going for full immersion with Project Delta, and have spent a lot of time to truly bring you into the world
Mountain Room Escapes: Escape the Cabin (Big Bear)
If you’re in Big Bear you should probably get out in nature, but if the weather is bad then this is a great room to do.
Mountain Room Escapes: Alpine Ski Lodge (Big Bear)
A friend had recommended Big Bear as a must-see so we thought this was a good excuse to go.
Escape Games at the River: The Secret of Dragon’s Spire (Palm Springs)
Some great wow moments and so much fun all around. Definitely worth doing!
Escape Games at the River: The Forgotten Pharaoh (Palm Springs)
Although not the best room at this location, it is still the second best room we did in Palm Springs
Escape Room Palm Springs: Bank Heist (Palm Springs)
Our third and fortunately final room at Escape Palm Springs was ‘Bank Heist’
Escape Room Palm Springs: Merlin’s Magic School (Palm Springs)
A room that tries to hard to be special and has a very strange GM setup. I’m not sure this room ever had any ‘magic’
Escape Room Palm Springs: Titanic (Palm Springs)
‘Titanic’ where you have to find the last hidden life boat before the ship goes down.
Stash House (Los Angeles)
Everything just works in the way it is meant to and you find yourself just moving from one puzzle to the next without a care in the world.
QuestRoom: Red Giant (Los Angeles)
If Red Giant is anything to go by, the company may well be setting the standard for the future of escape rooms.
Hatch Escapes: Lab Rat (Los Angeles)
If you’re in Los Angeles and there is a room that has been ranked number eight in the world then really it would be rude not to try it out.
Mission Escapes: Escape the Hideout (Los Angeles)
Just around the corner from Disneyland is Mission Escapes, and what better than to do an escape room after Disney closes?
Escapade Games: Zoe (Los Angeles)
We heard this was the scariest room in LA, we discussed if this was actually something we wanted to do. I’m glad we did
Epsom Escapes: Challenge Chambers (London)
Every single puzzle involved a padlock in one way or another, I don’t mind a good padlock but this took that to the extreme
Omescape: The Penitentiary (London)
Despite this room being a little creepy, it is in no way scary so I wouldn’t let that put you off.
The Panic Room: Defective Detective (Gravesend)
This room didn’t feel up to the same level as the other Panic Room rooms, and although it was fun, we left feeling a bit flat
The Panic Room: The Sacrifice (Gravesend)
A great introductory room for inexperienced players, or a nice little warm-up / cool-down after a long weekend of full length escape rooms.
The Panic Room: Prison Van (Gravesend)
For our final room of the day, we found ourselves back at The Panic Room’s Gravesham Market location, but this time outside, in a prison van!
The Panic Room: Wizard Of Oz (Gravesend)
Don’t be fooled by the theme, this room will give both families and enthusiasts entertainment, and is challenging enough for both.
The Panic Room: The Dollhouse (Gravesend)
Although this room is creepy, and it certainly is creepy, I wouldn’t really call it a scary room and it is definitely fun
The Panic Room: Old Father Time (Gravesend)
Of the rooms that we completed at The Panic Room, this was (in my opinion) the most beautifully designed room
The Panic Room: Mind Pod (Gravesend)
£5 per team 10 minutes of your life = a wonderfully relaxing alternative to a traditional escape room.
The Panic Room: Enigma (Gravesend)
While Enigma is lacking the WOW-factor of other rooms at The Panic Room, it is still a solid, and enjoyable room
The Panic Room: Loop (Gravesend)
What a room! This room is not just a must-do room in Gravesend, but definitely one of the top rooms in the country.
The Panic Room: The Don (Gravesend)
A solid room, which enthusiasts and new players alike will enjoy. A lot to do for a team of two, but plenty of space for larger teams
The Panic Room: Secret Of Pocahontas (Gravesend)
Although not the most advanced or impressive room in The Panic Room’s arsenal it’s still a solid room and one that’s definitely worth doing.
The Panic Room: Dino Land (Gravesend)
Dino Land was the perfect way to kick off an entire weekend of escapes, and lived up to all of my childhood dreams of visiting Jurassic Park.
Operation Escape: WW2 Scoop of the Century (London)
If Operation Escape start taking feedback on board then I think they could have a chance at survival in an already tough market, if they don’t then I fear they won’t be around for much longer.
Lock and Code: The Alchemy Enigma (Weston-Super-Mare)
The hardest part of this room was quite possibly the searching. Just when I thought we had looked at everything, we would discover a prop that hadn’t been used before and discover yet another piece of a puzzle or a key
Lock and Code: The Night before Christmas (Weston-Super-Mare)
We were on for a record time, then we encountered a puzzle we couldn’t solve, but apparently kids can!
Lock and Code: The League of Superheroes (Weston-Super-Mare)
A fun room that is perhaps past its prime and they need to do some maintenance to get it running as it should.
Lock and Code: Breakout (Weston-Super-Mare)
This was a really enjoyable room, a little bit rough around the edges in places but had a good mixture of finding things and solving things.
Puzzlair: The Cold War Catch (Yeovil)
If you like more traditional rooms, or want an introduction to escape rooms then this is a good room to go for. We didn’t rate their other room in Yeovil but this one was the standout winner of the day.
Puzzlair: The Lost Artworks (Yeovil)
This room is probably a love/hate type of room and I’m sure some people will love in. In fact looking at TripAdvisor you can see that many people do, but for us it is one that we’d advise our friends to avoid.
Mostly Harmless Games: Phobos-17 (London)
I saw that Phobos-17 was closing down at the end of the year and as it had such positive reviews we just had to fit it in before it went, so we did.
clueQuest: Operation Blacksheep (London)
A slick operation with a solid room and good story to follow. Not cheap, but worth it.
XScream Escapes: Satan’s Grotto (Ashford)
This 45 minute room shouldn’t be a hard, but for us it was. If you’re looking for a slightly different Christmas room then this one is a lot of fun.
XScream Escapes: The Corpsewood Killer (Ashford)
This was a really enjoyable room, but no real wow factors for me. It isn’t particularly scary, just a bit dark
XScream Escapes: Bedlam: Escape the Asylum (Ashford)
With a background in Thorpe Park Fright Nights you’d expect this to be a scary room, it isn’t. It’s creepy but I wouldn’t class this as a scare room (or it wasn’t when we did it)
Clue Adventures: 2 Tickets 2 Ride (London)
What this room lacks in space it makes up for in fun. As soon as you’re in you’re working on puzzles, then you’re on the tube with more puzzles, then you’re off the tube with more puzzles, and just when you think you are done and home free, there’s another puzzles!
Do Stuff Escape Games: Pie & Mash Shop (London)
A fun room, and one that may be a little easy for enthusiasts, a good challenge for beginners, but a great room to do regardless.
Clue HQ Kingston: The Experiments (London)
A mediocre room let down even more by a terrible GM.
Omescape: The Joker (London)
Our first experience with Omescape and turning up at this dodgy looking building just north of King’s Cross did nothing to put our nerves at ease, entering the waiting room did even less for that!
Adventure Rooms Cardiff: The Black Queen (Cardiff)
Credit to Adventure Rooms Cardiff for trying to introduce different technology in the room, it is a great room and definitely one to do if you’re in Cardiff.
Escape Rooms Cardiff: Z Room [BETA TEST]
If this beta test was anything to go by then this is going to be a hard room but good room. Very different to the other rooms we did in Cardiff
Escape Reality: Fibonacci (Cardiff)
A decent but linear room that was challenging in all the right places, unfortunately let down by a terrible clue system
Breakout Cardiff: Vacancy (Cardiff)
Not a bad room and there are definitely better in Cardiff, but if you need a room to do then this is a decent contender
Escape Rooms Cardiff: The Tomb
A well designed room with puzzles arguably on the easier side. Probably good for beginners or anyone you want to get addicted to escape rooms
Escape Reality: Alcatraz (Cardiff)
A hard room for inexperienced teams who aren’t confident on their communication, and annoying for experienced teams who like good rooms
Escape Rooms Cardiff: The Heist (Cardiff)
A solid room but make sure you are comfortable working as a split team and are happy with your communication skills
City Mazes: Subject 11 (Bristol)
As mentioned, the room was visually appealing, but some of the immersion was lost when the technology failed.
City Mazes: The Runner (Bristol)
Despite being billed as one of the company’s more challenging rooms, we breezed through this room as a team of four, obliterating the current record and topping the leaderboard.
Clue Adventures: The Book of Secrets (London)
Despite the sheer volume of puzzles, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this game to newbies, provided they have a larger team. For enthusiasts, it’s a solid room and a good choice if you like a plethora of puzzles.
Knockout Escape Rooms: Mad Scientist (Reading)
This room is light on backstory, but you definitely leave the outside world and become absorbed in your puzzle solving. At times a challenging room, but always fun
Escape Rooms Durham: Lab Heist (Durham)
There isn’t much to this room and it’s very much what-you-see-is-what-you-get but we found there was enough in there to keep us occupied
The Escape Key: Armageddon (Newcastle)
A strong room with impressive set design and puzzles we’ve not seen anywhere else.
Escape Key: Plague (Newcastle)
I was expecting something that was more of an escape room combined with a history lesson. This was not that, but it was still good fun, although we did definitely start to feel the pressure towards the end!
Knockout Escape Rooms: Prison Break (Reading)
The area this room stood out on was not the puzzles, but the set design. They did a good job of avoiding the readily done ‘split-start’ system and have made a truly enjoyable game.
Bust Out 360: Taken (Slough)
It’s easy to be the best room in Slough when you’re the only room in Slough, but it’s still close.
Do Stuff Escape Games: Hostage Hideout (London)
This was a fun room and although basic at times it still has enough to keep you going, although I wouldn’t recommend playing with a large group
Escape from the Room: The Curse of Old Maid Milly (Cheam)
For an enthusiast built room it is really rather good. OK, it isn’t as polished around the edges as some big money rooms but it works and is definitely still fun and worth doing.
Paradox Parlours: The Case of the Missing Gun
A small room that has enough to keep you going and somehow still manages to surprise you.
The Great Escape Game: Submerged (Sheffield)
If you’re looking for a room that does something a bit different then this is the one, it forces you to rely on communication between each other and without it you will go down with the ship.
Escape from the Room: The Cabin in the Woods (Cheam)
This room really has so much to keep you going, and such variety that there is no chance you’ll get bored. I really would have no hesitation in recommending this room to enthusiasts and beginners.
Mystery Cube (London)
Only a 15 minute walk from the Underground, on the Northern Line, and there is no way to describe it other than “Fun.” Do it. You won’t regret it.
Handmade Mysteries: Poppa Plock’s Wonky Workshop (London)
Handmade Mysteries seem to take a dose of escape room and a pinch of theatre and blend them together to create something truly delectable.
Lock’d: Perpetuum Mobile (London)
This room had promise, it really did but it failed in some key areas that really let it down and means we have no desire of going back and doing any more rooms at Lock’d.
Handmade Mysteries: Lady Chastity’s Reserve (London)
How can you fit so much fun into such a small space?! A great in character GM and a bottle of wine to boot, made this room a winner for us!
Secret Studio: Escape in Time! (London)
It’s true what they say, you never forget your first, and fortunately for us that was ‘Escape in time’. A really solid game with some very memorable moments.