Land of the Tiger

Opening in 2018, Land of the Tiger marked a bold new chapter for Chessington World of Adventures Resort. Replacing the long-standing Mystic East area, the land introduced a fresh identity built around the power and beauty of Amur tigers. However, this transformation didn’t happen overnight. Over the years, Mystic East had already begun to lose key elements, with classic theming and attractions slowly disappearing. Most notably, the towering Angkor Wat-inspired stone heads that once framed Dragon Falls vanished after 2012, signalling the beginning of major change.

Then, in 2018, Chessington fully committed to its new vision, although the shift had started much earlier. Samurai closed in 2003 as the park moved towards a more family-focused offering, with Peeking Heights later taking its place in 2005. The Ferris wheel remained a gentle centrepiece until 2017, when the park removed it to make way for redevelopment. Soon after, three large tiger enclosures began to take shape, completely transforming the area.

At the centre of it all sits Tiger Rock, the reimagined log flume that winds its way through the enclosures. Meanwhile, overhead Tiger Bridges allowed the park’s Amur tigers to roam above guests, creating memorable and often unpredictable moments. Consequently, the land quickly became a must-visit, especially on warmer days when the ride offered a refreshing escape.

However, the atmosphere has changed dramatically in recent years. Following the gradual passing of the tigers, keepers relocated the final resident at the end of 2025. Since then, the once lively enclosures have stood empty. Although the park carried out repainting work for the 2026 season, the area now feels noticeably quieter and, at times, lacking in energy.

In addition, several food outlets, including Tiger Bites and Tiger Treats, currently sit dormant, further adding to the sense that the land has lost its spark. Even Tiger Rock itself, while still popular, now shows signs of age.

Looking ahead, questions remain about the land’s future. With a major redevelopment planned nearby for 2027, many expect the Land of the Tiger could follow. While nothing has been confirmed, the area increasingly feels like it stands on borrowed time. Nevertheless, its legacy as one of Chessington’s most ambitious and innovative lands remains clear.