A new cinema has officially opened its doors in Bishop Auckland, marking the return of a dedicated big-screen venue to the town for the first time in 40 years. Reel Cinemas welcomed the public on 27 March 2026, following a special launch event held the previous day.
The seven-screen complex, located at the Bishop Auckland Retail and Leisure Park, represents the completion of the first phase of the site’s development. The project has created 30 local jobs and joins other businesses at the park, such as Home Bargains and the Game On bowling alley and arcade. The wider retail and leisure park development has brought 20 national and regional businesses to the area, creating nearly 500 jobs in total.
The cinema features modern laser projection technology, a licensed bar, and an integrated coffee shop named in tribute to the late founder of the chain, Kailash Chander Suri. For the company’s director, Sunil Suri, the opening is particularly significant as his grandfather was from the town. Beyond standard film screenings, the venue offers spaces for private hire, community events, and school visits, with managers aiming to establish the site as an accessible hub for local residents.
Local organisations are already looking to integrate the new facility into community life. Bishop Auckland College plans to partner with the cinema to provide students with work placements and staff training opportunities. Meanwhile, figures from the creative sector, including the Tees Valley International Film Festival, have welcomed the arrival, noting that the venue provides a platform for local filmmakers and brings new cultural opportunities to a region that has historically been underrepresented.
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