Kynren expands with time-travelling theme park

A new historical theme park is set to open in the North East, offering visitors an immersive journey through time with live-action performances and large-scale spectacles.

Kynren – The Storied Lands, launching in summer 2026 pending final approval, will expand the existing Kynren park in Bishop Auckland, County Durham. 

Unlike traditional theme parks that focus on rides, it will focus on live storytelling, thrilling stunts, epic music, innovative technology and theatrical experiences set in stunning historical landscapes, with Auckland Palace providing a fitting backdrop.

The new multimillion-pound “extravaganza” aims to boost regional tourism, create hundreds of jobs and cement Kynren’s status as a premier attraction in the region. 

Phase one of the park will feature five daytime shows, including a Viking battle, a dramatic retelling of the Lambton Worm myth on a giant lake and a Victorian-era spectacle. 

The centrepiece, Fina, will showcase medieval jousting and daring horseback stunts.

Anna Warnecke, chief executive at Kynren, said: “This is a game-changer for us and for the UK visitor experience market. 

“For the past decade, we have poured passion and expertise into delivering Kynren – An Epic Tale of England, and now we are bringing that same level of scale, innovation and magic into this new daytime attraction. 

“You won’t just witness history – you’ll live it, feel it, and be moved by it.”

The hugely popular Kynren – An Epic Tale of England will continue on Saturday nights with its 1,000-strong cast and crew of volunteers. 

Having attracted nearly 400,000 visitors to Bishop Aukland since its first show in 2016, Kynren has established itself as a landmark attraction in the North East.

Councillor Amanda Hopgood, leader of Durham City Council, added: “It is nine years since 11Arches amazed us with Kynren, which receives the 5 star TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award year after year. 

“Durham County Council is a proud partner in the remarkable development of Bishop Auckland, and we're delighted with the development of this new day park adventure: Kynren – The Storied Lands. 

“As Durham County establishes itself as one of the great UK visitor destinations, this extravaganza will sit at the heart of the County’s offering.”

Future phases of the park promise even more legendary tales, including The Lone Centurion, Tales of the Tudors, Conquest of the Seas, as well as stories centred on Excalibur, the mythical sword of King Arthur, and medieval hero Robin Hood.

Jonathan Ruffer, founder of 11Arches, the charity which operates Kynren, added: “When the first quivering shovel went into the land at Flatts Farm, ten years ago, onlookers were united that the grand plan for a night show, which might or might not be called Kynren, was completely bonkers. 

“A decade on, Kynren is one of the wonders of the North East, and there is no talk of the odds being against its survival – all are agreed that its success was effectively guaranteed, given the soundness of the business plan.   

“As we prepare for the opening of Kynren – The Storied Lands, there is excitement a-plenty. What a difference those ten years have made! 

“Kynren’s success has not only made the day park possible, but it has provided a springboard for its opening next year.

“No quivering shovels, just a settled determination to bring a gift of outstanding preciousness to Bishop Auckland.”

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