Behind the hypnotic firework displays, magical name-writing sparklers and rosy-cheeked faces flushed with childlike wonder lies a twisted tale of conspiracy, rebellion and betrayal, and at the centre of it all? Guy Fawkes (along with mastermind Robert Catesby and a group of Catholic co-conspirators, though they weren’t caught red-handed quite like Fawkes).
The unfortunate plotter, or at least a reimagining of him, can now be found hanging out among gunpowder barrels in shadowy, rat-infested tunnels inside the London Dungeon. You can head over to the iconic attraction to step inside the history books, learn more about the plot and discover what happened to traitors back in the day. Hint: it’s a tad more gory than what we’ve seen lately on a certain hit BBC show.
Remember, remember, the 5th of November
If school has taught us anything, it’s that a rhyme is a surefire way to make sure something sticks – and I think we all ‘remember, remember the fifth of November, the gunpowder treason and plot’. But if you’re like me, maybe not a clear grasp of exactly what verses followed. Something about a scheme to blow up the King? Well, to clear things up, you can always get an immersive refresher at the home of dark history itself…yes, the London Dungeon.
Your journey through the underground labyrinth soon takes you to a murky tunnel where you will be pulled into the treasonous events of Guy Fawkes’ Gunpowder Plot. While you navigate the shadows and warily eye the unlit fuse that ominously sits next to a pile of gunpowder barrels and explosives, you will be regaled with a story from a Royal Guard who apparently thwarted the plot. He is all too happy to share the details of what happened to Guy Fawkes after he was captured and endured over 10 brutal days of torture.
Thankfully, if the deep dive into the fate of Guy Fawkes makes your skin crawl, there’s a chance to shake it off when you see, hear and feel what might have happened if the conspirator had been successful in his mission. Plus, you’ll get to see the man himself – well, some of him.
