London attraction apologises for string of ‘sexist’ jokes
One of London’s top tourist attractions has been accused as demeaning women with a series of ‘sexist’ Valentine’s Day jokes on social media.
The London Dungeon, owned by Merlin Entertainments, was also accused of belittling those who work in the sex industry.
Its managers have since apologised for the messages on its Facebook page and on Twitter.
One of the messages social media users found offensive read: "What’s the difference between your job and a dead prostitute? Your job still sucks."
Another said: "I love a girl that’s a good eater. Female translation: You’re fat."
Soho Theatre worker Jules Hanworth told the Evening Standard the jokes were ‘disturbing’ given that the London Dungeon is a family attraction. "They’re particularly demeaning towards women and sex workers," she said.
Today, the attraction posted an apology on Twitter and on Facebook, and its spokesman said: "We apologise that our social posts caused offence.
"Our ‘Dark Valentine’ campaign was a range of posts aimed to highlight the darker side of history and create debate and conversation.
"As a brand we strive to entertain our guests so they can enjoy the London Dungeon experience – both in our attraction and on social media.
"However on this occasion we recognise that some of the topics many felt were inappropriate and therefore we apologise for any offence cause."
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
Vegas’s Billion-Dollar Secrets – What They Don’t Want Tourists to Know
Visit Florida’s New CEO Bryan Griffin Shares His Vision for State Tourism with Graham
Chicago’s Tourism Renaissance: Graham Interviews Kristin Reynolds of Choose Chicago
Graham Talks with Cassandra McCauley of MMGY NextFactor About the Latest Industry Research
Destination International’s Andreas Weissenborn: Research, Advocacy, and Destination Impact
Graham and Don Welsh Discuss the Success of Destinations International’s Annual Conference
Graham and CEO Andre Kiwitz on Ventura Travel’s UK Move and Recruitment for the Role
Brett Laiken and Graham Discuss Florida’s Tourism Momentum and Global Appeal
Graham and Elliot Ferguson on Positioning DC as a Cultural and Inclusive Global Destination
Graham Talks to Fraser Last About His England-to-Ireland Trek for Mental Health Awareness
Kathy Nelson Tells Graham About the Honour of Hosting the World Cup and Kansas City’s Future
Graham McKenzie on Sir Richie Richardson’s Dual Passion for Golf and His Homeland, Antigua
ADS PRO 
France prepares for a massive strike across all transports on September 18
Turkish tourism stalls due to soaring prices for accommodation and food
CCS Insight: eSIMs ready to take the travel world by storm
Germany new European Entry/Exit System limited to a single airport on October 12, 2025
Airlines suspend Madagascar services following unrest and army revolt