YORK Dungeon is set to reopen next month after a £2 million revamp – with a brand new look.

The major tourist attraction in Clifford Street has been closed since it was badly flooded last September, when the River Ouse rose to its highest levels since 2000 following torrential rain.

Now owners Merlin have taken the opportunity to completely re-model the dungeon, prior to its re-opening on March 29, with help from Sam Norman, make-up artist from the hit-film Pirates of the Caribbean.

“It will be less ‘ham’ and more Hamlet, with both sets and scripts given a more authentic, more theatrical aspect,” said marketing director, Rebecca Hamilton.

“York’s most infamous rogues, villains and rascals, like Guys Fawkes and Dick Turpin, will still be in evidence, but they too will have enjoyed a makeover to suit a new more dynamic and thrill-filled rather than fright-filled journey through York’s murky past.”

She said fake scars and boils would be replaced by premium quality theatrical make-up and costumes that more accurately reflected the fashions of the relevant historic chapters.

Rebecca said: “Our objective is to provide an altogether bolder, funnier and more realistic authentic storytelling experience.

“We know from extensive research and feedback that our guests love actors, laughter and performance, so we’ve really concentrated on polishing that for our reopening. Visitors can expect something really quite different and very special.”

She said professional writers had revised scripts to strip out the old puns and inject some real wit, adding: “‘Your carriage awaits me’ and ‘Some faces just stop traffic’ are a couple of potential new lines for legendarily naughty highwayman Dick Turpin, for example.

“We’re really excited about our new offering and can’t wait to get the doors open to see how visitors respond.”

A full calendar of events and activities is planned at the dungeon, including a “Summer of Stink” and Halloween events, as well as birthday party packages, private events and corporate receptions.