REVIEW: Fear Island is as impressive as it is scary - a must for horror fans

This was my first year at Fear Island. As a horror film fan, but one who is easily jump-scared, anticipation levels were high.

First impressions were of the stunning sets that greet visitors as they enter. From the highly-decorated central court with themed food stands and stage performances, to the looming ‘Psycho Mansion’ and its huge animatronic features – the atmosphere was perfectly spooky.

From here, we navigated to several walk-through horror mazes, offering scare factors rated from ‘mild’ to ‘high’.

Doom-laden soundscapes and elaborate multi-level location sets combine with character acting from the impressive cast to both scare and disturb – with some dark comedy thrown in for good measure.

One of these is award-winning attraction ‘Snap’. Offering a terrifying behind-the-scenes look at a ‘lunatic’ circus, this walk-through offers a few laughs amidst the frights – but those with a fear of clowns - or killer rabbits - may want to think twice.

This year also sees the return of fellow award-winning ‘Ravenous’ – featuring a family of cannibals. Said to be ‘most extreme’ of the zones, this experience was certainly not for the faint-hearted. I’d advise eating before you venture into this one.

New to Fear Island this year is ‘Heartless’ – a name that’s somewhat understated given the nightmarish hellscape that awaits visitors to this zone. The soundtrack was terrifying enough, let alone the giant figures looming out of the darkness, disorienting lights and sudden noises. It feels like you have stumbled into somewhere no living mortal should tread, an intrusion into an underworld of misery and torture, where the damned are sent to roam.

The spectres that await those heading into Psycho Mansion are slightly less disturbing, but still perfect for fans of all things spooky – with several creepy characters providing top-notch Halloween theatrics.

This was not just staff in costumes jump-scaring visitors at the various zones – these were impressively-produced and staged performances. It’s clear from the outset that the hand of a theatrical pro is at work.

Indeed, one of the faces behind the madness is Skegness-based producer, writer and director Gary Starr - whose theatre company worked alongside the Fantasy Island team to develop Fear Island's scare zones. From creating concepts and writing scripts, to casting actors and directing rehearsals – the professional input really shows. It’s a must for any horror fan.

• For more details about what’s on at Fear Island, including several additional attractions and Halloween shows suitable for the while family, visit the Fantasy Island website.