Welcome to Yorkshire
Inspiration • September 2nd, 2026
|Excitement is building in Leeds as the city prepares to welcome its first-ever Prison Island venue, marking a significant addition to the interactive gaming scene in the North of England. Set to open in December 2026 at the Merrion Centre, this new entertainment hub promises a unique experience that combines fun, teamwork, and competition.
Prison Island Experience
At the heart of the venue will be the Prison Island experience, which is not just your typical escape room. Instead of being locked in a single room, players will face a series of themed cells that challenge their physical abilities, skills, teamwork, and problem-solving capabilities. Teams of up to five players will have the chance to take on various challenges, ensuring that every visit is a different adventure.
This interactive game is designed for a wide range of participants, making it suitable for friends, families, and even corporate team-building activities. The venue will also feature additional competitive experiences such as interactive darts and interactive golf, adding to the fun and variety available.
Location and Size
Occupying approximately 11,000 square feet across two floors, the new venue will be located in a prime spot within the Merrion Centre on Merrion Street. This bustling area is already a popular destination for leisure and entertainment, making it an ideal site for the new attraction. With the opening of Prison Island, 18 new full and part-time jobs will also be created, contributing to the local economy.
Expansion into the North
Prison Island Leeds is part of a larger expansion plan for the brand, which currently boasts more than 110 locations worldwide. The Leeds venue will be the fourth in the UK, joining existing sites in Belfast, Maidstone, and Camden. The successful Belfast venue, which opened seven years ago, has become a leading attraction in Northern Ireland, showcasing the potential for success in Leeds.
Ryan Lyttle, director of Prison Island Leeds, expressed his enthusiasm about the location:
“The Merrion Centre is a superb location and felt like a natural fit for Prison Island. It’s a busy, well-established leisure destination in the heart of Leeds, with excellent transport links and strong footfall from residents, students, workers, and visitors to the city.”
Community Impact
The arrival of Prison Island is expected to further enhance the leisure and entertainment offerings within the Merrion Centre and the wider Arena Quarter. Charles Newman, asset management director at Town Centre Securities PLC, noted, “Its decision to launch its first venue in the North of England here in Leeds is a fantastic endorsement of the Merrion Centre as a destination for leisure and entertainment.”
With a focus on creating a vibrant community atmosphere, the venue aims to attract not only locals but also visitors from nearby areas. The interactive nature of the experiences offered is likely to appeal to a broad audience, making it a great place for celebrations, corporate events, and casual outings alike.
