It was a long time ago that we played the precursor to The Tomb 2, The Tomb (original naming), and I’d say this game was an improvement on the first. Great set design, good immersion, and fun puzzles (well all except one)
Team of Two
All of these rooms below we have completed as a team of two, so if we can do it, you probably can too!
Escape Rooms Cardiff: The 13th Floor (Cardiff)
If you’re in the mood for a little Tower of Terror nostalgia, this game may just be the one for you. With spot on theming, satisfying puzzles, and just a hint of theatricality, The 13th Floor is another great addition to the games already on offer at Escape Rooms Cardiff
The Reading Witch: Deadlocked (Reading)
Deadlocked have upped their game and The Reading Witch had that feeling of horror games we’ve played in Athens and Amsterdam. Ok, the space is much smaller but they used it well and the live action element takes it to the next level. I can’t say that this is the scariest horror game in the UK, but is it the best horror escape room in the UK? Possibly.
Knockout Escape Rooms: Dirty Money (Reading)
I’ve visited plenty of laundrettes in my life, but I think this might be the first time I’ve ever actually had fun trying to escape from one. Dirty Money is another excellent addition to the already fantastic games available to play at Knockout, and in Reading in general, especially for fans of a more traditional escape experience
Puzzled: Abandon Ship (Taff’s Well)
I think Puzzled could be a little hidden gem in the Valleys. We’ll certainly be keeping an eye out and are looking forward to going back to play their new games when they open.
Escape the Past: The Anatomist (Edinburgh)
The Anatomist is one of those games that you could probably class as a ‘traditional’ escape room. It probably won’t blow you away, but it’s likely to give you a good time and help you feel like you’ve lived some of Edinburgh’s ‘darker’ history. There aren’t a huge amount of games in Edinburgh, but if you’re looking for games to play while you’re in the city, then this isn’t a bad shout.
The Escaporium: Area 51 1/2 (Halifax)
There’s a reason everyone is talking about The Escaporium in general, and Area 51 ½ in particular, and it’s not just because people love aliens. Area 51 ½ is charming, beautifully designed, and full of puzzle perfection.
Prodigy Escape Rooms: The Lost Temple (Exeter)
This game is clearly a step-up for Prodigy on set design and the tech they have integrated into the experience. Ok, one or two puzzles annoyed us, but we still enjoyed our time in The Lost Temple, and it was nice to see them make a more challenging game that enthusiasts can get stuck into.
Elusion Escape Rooms: Potions and Peril (Southampton)
Alongside Christmas rooms, Gord and I have a, shall we say, “history” with magic rooms. (We typically crash and burn in spectacular fashion). Potions and Peril was a delightful little exception to that, with fun puzzles and a lovely whimsical feel.
Elusion Escape Rooms: Cursed Waters (Southampton)
I enjoyed Cursed Waters. At the start it felt like there was a lot going on but it all came together well and also gave me one of my most enjoyable escape room moments – ok it was short lived, but the joy it brought me for that short period of time will certainly stay with me.
Elusion Escape Rooms: From Beyond (Southampton)
I had high hopes for this game because of the Stranger Things connection, and what we found was a lovely crossover between that and The Thing. Good set design, satisfying puzzles, and wonderful music made for a fun time.
Rhondda Escape Rooms: Strangest Things Experience (Tonypandy)
We’ve played a fair few games that are Stranger Things themed, but very few have gone to quite the level of detail in set design that Rhondda Escape Rooms have. With a detailed set, decent puzzles, and lovely owners, I’m happy to say Strangest Things is probably one of the most fun things to do in Tonypandy. Would we return to play their other games? Certainly.
Other World Escapes: Chipshop (Portsmouth)
I would guess this was one of the earlier games by Other World. It’s still a fine game, but perhaps showing its age in places. One or two twists, and a convincing set were ultimately let down by a weak ending.
Other World Escapes: Journey to Xibalba (Portsmouth)
My favourite theme is a temple, and I’m always excited when a temple game lives up to the possibilities the theme provides of creating a true adventure. Journey to Xibalba does exactly that, and provides (up to) 90 minutes of pure joy.
Trapp’d: The End of the Line (Northampton)
We’d not had the best luck at this venue, and this game didn’t feel like the best that Trapp’d have to offer. It was worn down and looked very tired in places, and some major tech failures didn’t help us to have the best experience.
EO Escape Rooms: Scarlet (Sudbury)
It’s nice to find an original theme for an escape room, and also nice that this girl’s name was not part of a horror experience! Scarlet was a delightful game with some wonderful moments. If I could just arrange that memory wipe, I’d play it again in a heartbeat!
EO Escape Rooms: Scary Tale (Sudbury)
The thing that makes the games at EO Escape Rooms so great, Scary Tale included, is simply that they’ve done the basics right. This game is everything an escape room should be: cool set, a narrative that ties the set and the puzzles together, and loads of solid content. When you combine those things you get a game that is just, simply, a joy to play.
EO Escape Rooms: Karma Club (Sudbury)
This was one of those games that just seemed to have the perfect flow to it. Everything made sense, everything was a joy, and our short time in Karma Club was possibly the highlight of our day. The world needs more games like this!
EO Escape Rooms: Castaway (Sudbury)
Castaway was a delightful game, full of content and lovely moments of nostalgia. But the real star of the show is the set, making us feel like we never wanted to leave!
Cluetopia: Chaos at Calamity Mine (Clacton-on-Sea)
I’d like to think that we’ve played enough escape rooms to know when a room is good even if it doesn’t click with us. Chaos at Calamity Mine is a good game I’m sure of that, but it was just not the game for us.
Doomsday Escape Rooms: Critical Mass (Colchester)
If you love a high tech game, you’re likely to love Critical Mass. There were a few things that made me love it a little less than Pathogen, but that could just be me being picky.
Hounds Escape: The Acid Bath Murderer Experience (Crawley)
The Acid Bath Murderer is hard to quantify. Part escape room, part history lesson, and part true crime drama, perhaps the best way to describe it would be to call it an Immersive, Narrative-Driven Puzzletale. Whatever you call it, it’s a perfect combination of puzzles and story, culminating in a new sort of experience that is unlike anything else we’ve encountered so far, and one not to be missed.
The Exit Games FL: Pins and Needles Tattoo Parlor (Clearwater, FL)
This review is purposefully cryptic, but believe me when I tell you that the less I say about this game, the better your experience will be. I will, however, say that it is rare to find a game that is as immersive as Pins and Needles is without it being a full on horror experience (and Pins and Needles is not, strictly speaking, one of those.)
The Exit Games FL: Servants of Sleight (Clearwater, FL)
Ok, I see what all the fuss is about. We loved our time in Servants of Sleight and the less we say about it, the better your experience will be. Just go and play it, it’s a delight.
Legends Escape Rooms: Moonshine Cabin (Tampa, FL)
I knew next to nothing before heading to Legends Escape Rooms, but I was pleasantly surprised. Moonshine Cabin was fun, fair, and filled with some unexpected things. It’s a shame we only had time for one game at Legends, especially if their others are of a similar quality.
Escape The Cape: Mindhatter (Cape Coral, FL)
In hindsight, we should have just listened to the reviews. We found our time in MindHatter turned us into the Mad Hatter rather than leaving us in Wonderland. The puzzles were frustrating, and the ending was very flat.
Outerlife Studios: Scorched (St Petersburg, FL)
Scorched is a decent game that offers everything I expect from an escape room: an enthusiastic host, reasonably immersive set design, and fair, albeit few, puzzles. With the game lacking in content, however, it felt like it was over almost as soon as it began.
Pier Pressure: Smuggler’s Secret (Brighton)
Smugglers Secret was a total joy to play. While we played the Pro Version and found it to be exactly the right balance of challenging and fun, I feel confident in saying that the Family Version would be a perfect introduction to escape rooms for the little ones, and no matter which version you choose, it’s an fantastic activity if you need a break from the beach.
Escapism Plymouth: Forge (Plymouth)
Escapism Plymouth have delivered another solid and satisfying game. With the dynamic difficulty (i.e. extra puzzles) in Forged, this game is a sound choice whether you’re an experienced puzzler, or looking to try your first game.
Escapism Plymouth: Wrecked (Plymouth)
Wrecked was a fun game, with enjoyable puzzles and a good flow. The first games we played as Escapism Plymouth were good, but it looks like they are always looking for ways to improve.
clueQuest: Revenge of the Sheep (London)
Despite being an older game, Revenge of the Sheep is still in very good condition and not showing its age at all. Puzzles were solid, the tech was impressive, and set design was the high standard we’ve come to expect. If you’re looking for escape rooms in London, then clueQuest is always a contender and any of their games are a good choice.
clueQuest: Plan 52 (London)
Plan 52 is clueQuest’s first game, and while it is no longer anything groundbreaking, it still holds up as a solid game that is a delight to play, making it enjoyable for enthusiasts and perfect for first time players.
Escape Rooms Cheltenham: Cheese Robbers (Cheltenham)
Cheese Robbers has a lovely premise and is very family friendly, with bright colours, some entertaining moments, and of course, scalable difficulty. We didn’t click particularly well with the game, but that was possibly more to do with us than the game. Either way, we still had fun stealing the cheese.
Locked in a Room: Parallax (Center Parcs, Longleat)
Parallax is a perfectly acceptable game, but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend enthusiasts playing it at Center Parcs simply due to the price
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
Exit60: 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.
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.
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: 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.
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.
Chronos One Escape Rooms: 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
Chronos One Escape Rooms: 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!
Chronos One Escape Rooms: 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.
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.
Mansion of Mystery: The Time Machine (Pembrokeshire)
Mansion of Mystery’s Time Machine was a highlight of our recent break in the south west of Wales, and it wasn’t just because of the Owl Garden and Zoo located within the grounds of Picton Castle. The Time Machine was a joy to play, and well worth including on your itinerary if you happen to find yourself in Pembrokeshire.
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: 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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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: 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.
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
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
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.
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!
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.
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
Chronos One 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.
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
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
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.
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.
Cluetopia: 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.
Cluetopia: 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.
Cluetopia: 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
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
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.
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: 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 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.
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!
Ready Escape Rooms: Escape the Vault (Brighton)
A 40 minute room that won’t challenge enthusiasts (we got out in 12 minutes) but it is a whole lot of fun and we thoroughly enjoyed it. A great warm-up or cool-down room and definitely one to add to the list if you’re in Brighton!
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.
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
Chronos One 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
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).
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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!
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.
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!
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!