Escape Hunt allies with BBC to launch 'Doctor Who' themed escape rooms

Entertainment network and ‘escape room’ operator Escape Hunt on Monday signed a five-year exclusive licence agreement with BBC Studios to create Doctor Who themed escape rooms in the UK.

The agreement will see the AIM-listed company open the first of the rooms in December 2018, to follow the autumn launch of the new television series, with plans to roll out further Doctor Who themed rooms across the UK over the next three years.

Richard Harpham, Escape Hunt’s chief executive, said: "Going on an Escape Hunt is all about stepping into and experiencing new worlds so strength in different genres is absolutely key to our content strategy."

The company said that using branded content in its attractions broadens their appeal both to the public and to corporate clients and will help to drive footfall and brand awareness.

"Doctor Who represents the very best in British action adventure and has a loyal and dedicated fanbase that spans all generations. We look forward to bringing the show to life for all fans in its first ever live escape game experience at Escape Hunt venues across the UK," said Harpham.

The company began opening industry-themed escape rooms just four months ago, with its three sites in Birmingham, Bristol and Leeds each already featured as one of the top two “fun and games” attractions on TripAdvisor in their respective cities.

Escape Hunt shares were up 1.75% to 116.00p at 1312 BST.