Shoppers at the Westgate Centre in Oxford can take a break from spending in stores by stopping off in an 'escape room'.

The leisure activity, popular in cities across the UK, involves groups agreeing to be locked in a room and then crack a series of codes and puzzles linked to a given scenario to escape before an agreed deadline.

Escape Hunt will bring the escape game experience to the shopping centre's roof terrace on Friday, October 5.

From a new swashbuckling pirate challenge to a high-octane ancient Japanese adventure, players will be transported to another world as they are put to the test with brain-teasing puzzles and code crunching.

Players will be invited to 'step aboard one of the most infamous ships of all time' to try out Blackbeard’s Treasure, the pirate-themed experience.

Or they can immerse themselves in ancient Japan with The Fourth Samurai and take on the ultimate challenge to defeat an evil warlord.

Fans of westerns are also in for a treat with the arrival of Escape the Wild West, due to launch in early November.

The games are open to teams of between two and six players and begin with a mission briefing from a talented Games Master, followed by an hour to crack a series of clues and puzzles.

From cryptic word play to physical dexterity, players must work as a team and break out of the room, before celebrating their escape in the premium lounge and taking advantage of a well-stocked bar.

Kat Smalley, general manager at Escape Hunt Oxford, said: “We’re incredibly proud of the site we’ve created at Westgate Centre in Oxford.

"With a variety of escape room experiences to choose from, we’re looking forward to welcoming adrenaline seekers through our doors to take on the clock and the challenge that lies ahead of them.

“Whether looking for a fun weekend activity with family and friends, or a team building exercise with work colleagues, Escape Hunt Oxford has a challenge that will test the mind to the max.”

Games are suitable for players age 10 or over. Anyone aged under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The venue also includes a private meeting room, making it the perfect location for parties, work socials and away days.

Escape Hunt Oxford costs £25 per person for groups of two to three, and £20 per person for groups of four to six.

Other activities on offer at the shopping centre include the crazy golf course Junkyard Golf Club.

Escape room activities are already on offer at City Mazes Oxford at Ozone Leisure Park near the Kassam Stadium.

Customers can pre-book for Escape Hunt at escapehunt.com/uk/oxford