NEWSPECIAL EFFECTS, NEW SCARES, NEW NAME open from Saturday, May 24 2014 for half term

Dictionary definition – tyrant (noun): cruel and oppressive ruler.

A true tyrant by any definition, Henry VIII chopped off two of his wives' heads, introduced boiling alive as a capital punishment and executed 72,000 people. In time for May half term, visitors to The London Dungeon will experience the full force of his tyranny on the attraction's improved, scarier and altogether darker boat ride - aptly called The Tyrant.

Accused of being traitors alongside Queen, Anne Boleyn, visitors are condemned to join her on her final journey along the black River Thames to the infamous Traitors' Gate of the Tower of London. As the voyage sets sail, the suspense begins to build and when the high impact, special effects and edge of the seat surprises gradually kick in, nerves of steel will be needed to negotiate the choppy waters of treachery.

The stench of the putrid river permeates the air, jeering crowds line the route making their displeasure known and an army of riverside rats scurry by as the fragile boat is tossed on the water. Fog descends engulfing the river in total darkness and the sharpening of the executioners' axe merges with the screams of The Tower's condemned prisoners before the booming voice of Henry (played virtually by legendary actor Brian Blessed) sends guests to their final destiny…

Those who do make it off the boat will disembark with legs of jelly at the great city walls of Tudor London to endure a close encounter with The Tower's apprentice executioner. Then it's time to take the thrill filled journey through 1000 years of London's murky past, brought to life with talented actors and scarily funny shows featuring history's most infamous names from Sweeney Todd to Jack the Ripper.

Find out more and book ahead at www.thedungeons.com/london

NOTE TO EDITORS:

The Tyrant was previously called Henry's Wrath.  The ride has been improved with new special effects, story telling devices, shocks and surprises to create a more immersive, far scarier and much darker experience for guests.

KEY INFORMATION

• Opening times: Monday - Friday 10am-5pm EXCEPT Thursday when the attraction opens at 11am with last entry at 5pm, Saturday/Sunday 10am-6pm
• Guests are advised to check website to confirm opening times and pre book tickets before visiting
• Best prices online at www.thedungeons.com/london
• Advanced prices from £20.95 (adult), £16.95 (children); boat ride is included in main entry price
• Enjoy a whole London day out and save 25% with combination tickets for The London Dungeon, EDF Energy London Eye, SEA LIFE London Aquarium and Madame Tussauds
• Nearest tube: Waterloo/ Westminster

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For further information please contact:

Claudia Parker/Karen Abrams at freerange communications on 020 7402 9966 or claudia@freerange.eu

Note to Editors:

MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS plc is the leading name in location-based, family entertainment. Europe's Number 1 and the world's second-largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin now operates 100 attractions, 10 hotels/3 holiday villages in 22 countries and across 4 continents. The company aims to deliver memorable and rewarding experiences to its almost 60 million visitors worldwide, through its iconic global and local brands, and the commitment and passion of its managers and more than 20,000 + employees. 

Among Merlin's attractions are - SEA LIFE, Madame Tussauds, LEGOLAND, The EDF Energy London Eye, Dungeons, Gardaland, LEGOLAND Discovery Centres, Alton Towers Resort, Warwick Castle, THORPE PARK Resort, Blackpool Tower, Heide Park Resort, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Sydney Tower Eye and SKYWALK, Siam Ocean World and Busan Aquarium.  All brands which are distinctive, challenging and innovative – and which have great potential for growth in the future. Visit www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information.