We're used to hotels giving us the best things in life - from Egyptian cotton sheets to a five-star restaurant service...
However, visitors to the newly opened Hotel Alcatraz in London's King's Cross can expect a rather more bleak experience.
The four-bedroomed abode aims to replicate San Francisco’s infamous Alcatraz prison and comes complete with 5’ by 9’ cells and "prison wardens" who have been specifically trained for their unsual role.
Among the staff is former U.S.P Alcatraz Correction Officer, George DeVincenzi, who is on-hand to "authenticate" the prison experience.
Forget the usual chocolate turn-down service or selection of tempting toiletries - "cells" instead boast a a sleeping cot with mattress, a sink, a prison-style toilet and two shelves.
Vistors are issued with metal food trays and standard uniforms, authentically sourced directly from the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy in San Francisco.
Check-in is at 18.30 hours, at which point guests are given prison-issue uniforms and mugshots are taken. They are fed and watered while in their cells and are given a number of tasks that will help them to understand the lives of inmates caged on "The Rock" during the 1950’s and 60’s, including physical exercise.
The hotel launch coincides with the launch of J.J. Abrams’ new drama series, Alcatraz, which starts on UKTV’s entertainment channel Watch today (Tuesday 13 March) at 9pm.
Steve Hornsey, General Manager of Watch said, "We’re thrilled to be hosting the UK premiere of Alcatraz, the chilling new drama from J.J. Abrams and equally excited at the prospect of throwing open the doors of Hotel Alcatraz. It offers people a unique opportunity to experience America’s most infamous prison and we can’t wait to see and hear the guest’s reactions."
Fancy an escape to Hotel Alcatraz? Click here to make a booking...
