I had the pleasure of experiencing Scare Kingdom at Mrs Dowsons Farm with Ash from Scare Directory. This was the first scare attraction I’ve been to and I didn’t ask many questions beforehand as the intrigue added to the excitement so I really didn’t know what to expect. Here are my thoughts.
Firstly, the venue is perfect. Being out on a farm in the middle of nowhere does well to set a spooky scene. It’s a tad chilly so glad I had a jacket. There were cows everywhere so as an animal lover this was a Brucie bonus. The staff running the event seemed very helpful and friendly and clearly love what they are doing.
Onto the attractions. First up we have the Wizard of Oz. As I entered the scene I didn’t know what was going to happen. We were met with a brilliant and hilarious access who set the scene for us. As we we progressed through the story we were met with lively, fabulous actors who were soooky and funny, and whose make up was so perfect. The Wizard of Oz wasn’t particularly dark, both lighting wise and theme wise and there was a really good balance between jumps and theatre. They used the space creatively to take you through the story and I was impressed at the imaginative pathway. Overall the actors, make up and set were fab, it was somewhat jumpy, very fun, and light hearted.
Next up we have Springheeled Jack. I listen to a lot of podcasts that have talked about Springheeled Jack so was looking forward to this one and was not disappointed. The actors were excellent and the use of space was again very creative. More jumps in this one and a bit darker, both lighting and intensity wise. Also very funny and I came out giggling. I loved the first and loved this one even more. Great balance of funny/jumpy.
Then last but by absolutely no means least… Psychomanteum. Whereas the first two I had some limited idea of what was in store, this one was a mystery to me. As soon as I crawled into the first area I was hooded. The excitement and anticipation of not knowing what’s going to happen is brilliant. It’s so interactive and physical, from the smells you smell going through each part to the sounds, even down to the feeling – on your hands, back, body. It really is an assault on the senses and not for the faint hearted. I hear food isn’t a regular element and whilst this was my least favourite part I appreciate how this adds to the full on experience and it pushes the limits that bit further. I safe worded for the first time in my life. It turns out an assault on your taste buds will do it.
Overall I was thoroughly impressed and absolutely loved my first scare experience. I can’t wait to experience more!
