Cryptic code-crackers who fancy themselves as Harry Houdini types are in luck as there’s a new escape room in town.

Escapism Chester will swing open its doors at Cestria Building on George Street for the first time on Friday (August 12).

The attraction will see players working together to hunt clues and solve puzzles so they can bust out of a room in an imaginary but nonetheless tense scenario within the allotted 60 minutes.

Those who dare to pit their wits against the head-scratching mind-benders have four distinctly themed rooms to choose from – Amphitheatre, Area 51, Taken and Espionage – with a fifth in the pipeline.

So players of Amphitheatre – which comes complete with sound effects of gladiators’ battle cries and baying crowds – have to escape before the ‘Roman guards’ get to them, while Taken players must keep their cool to secure the safe release of their friends who have been taken hostage.

Do you think you could escape?
Do you think you could escape?

Managing director Daniel Haycocks said: “Each room is designed around a different story or experience.

“We want to creatively challenge your brain and spark your imagination!

“It’s similar to the Crystal Maze, less the bald eccentric host but our game hosts will guide you through should you require it.

“We have put a great deal of time, cost and planning into each of our rooms.

“The rooms are fitted with rusted cell doors and it is touches like this which make it a completely immersive experience.

“The puzzles and clues are all tied into the room theme and narrative which gives the players a great experience.”

Another escape room RoomsQuest launched in the east wing of Chester Railway Station in the spring.

The industry seems to be booming, and Daniel thinks it’s because they’re so versatile.

“They’re great for a few purposes: team-building; fun with friends and family; an ice breaker for a first date or new flatmates,” he explained.

“They force you to think outside of the box and it is never the same each time you visit.”

Escapism Chester caters for groups of between two and five.

For more information, click here.