The Escapologist set to unlock historic York venue

A historic building in York is set for a new lease of life following a £1 million investment to create an immersive leisure and hospitality destination.

The Escapologist will open its latest venue at the former Biltmore on Swinegate in November, creating between 25 and 30 jobs.

Dating back to around 1910, 29 Swinegate sits within York’s Central Historic Core Conservation Area and has previously served as a First World War military hospital, a 500-seat church and entertainment venue.

Bosses say the transformation will retain many of the building’s original architectural features while introducing a range of escape rooms, interactive games and food and drink experiences.

Three escape rooms will be available when the venue opens, including space-themed Mission to Mars, fantasy adventure Hadrig’s Forgotten Forest and mystery experience The Grand Continental Express.

Alongside the escape rooms, visitors will be able to try EscaPool, an in-house concept combining crazy golf with pool, as well as interactive darts.

A café, restaurant and bar will complete the offering, with The Escapologist partnering with York Coffee Emporium and other independent suppliers.

Ellie McClaren, chief executive of The Escapologist, said: “We are thrilled to bring The Escapologist to York, a city renowned for its heritage, culture, and vibrant social scene. 

“29 Swinegate is a building with remarkable history and soul, and we take our responsibility as its new custodian very seriously.

“Whether you are solving mysteries in Hadrig's Forgotten Forest or trying your hand at EscaPool, we can’t wait to open the doors and welcome locals and visitors alike this November.”

The investment forms part of the leisure operator’s continued expansion and is designed to add a new attraction to York’s city centre hospitality offering.

Bookings are expected to open shortly ahead of the November launch, with the venue targeting families, groups of friends, celebrations and corporate outings.

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