Kynren, the acclaimed live-action show brought to you by the charity 11Arches, is embarking on its most ambitious project to date: Kynren – The Storied Lands, a brand-new historical theme park located within the broader Kynren Park in Bishop Auckland.
Set to open in Summer 2026, subject to final planning approval, this exciting daytime attraction will immerse visitors in a time-travelling adventure that brings history, myth, and legend to life.
Unlike traditional theme parks that focus on rides, Kynren – The Storied Lands invites exploration and connection with the past, delivering multiple live action shows featuring heart pounding moments of action, thrilling stunts, incredible performances, immersive storytelling, epic music and innovative technology as it takes visitors on an emotional journey through time.
What to Expect in 2026
Phase one of the park will feature five monumental shows and immersive experiences set against beautifully landscaped historical backdrops.
As visitors step into the park, they will be transported back to Fruma: Neolithic Britain and the era of the first settlers. Moving deeper into the experience, they will encounter
- Land of the Vikings: Encounter an all-new Viking show, where warriors clash, sparks fly, and fires rage in an immersive, multi-sensory spectacle of Norse life.
- Victorian Adventure: Step into the gaslit streets of Victorian England and find yourself swept up in the sights, sounds, and stories of the era, where everyday life is filled with drama, discovery, and larger-than-life characters.
- Legend of the Wear: A giant lake becomes the stage for thrilling water stunts and a captivating retelling of the Lambton Worm myth. The audience will be left in awe as the monstrous, cursed creature emerges from the waters in an unforgettable spectacle.
- The Lost Feather: An inspiring and visually stunning experience centered around the relationship between birds and humanity. Set on a breathtaking stage inspired by a bird’s nest, this show will explore the beauty, power, and fragility of bird species from around the world, highlighting their struggles and triumphs in a rapidly changing environment.
- Fina : The adventure builds to the park’s biggest show— Fina – an epic spectacle where medieval knights clash on horseback, and a fearless female warrior’s courage and skill are put to the test in a breathtaking display of horsemanship and daring stunts.
Performers will bring unforgettable historical scenes to life on enormous sets, enhanced by stunning special effects, with Auckland Palace providing a striking historical backdrop.
Majestic horses, free flying birds, and other animals are seamlessly woven into the performances, adding depth, visual richness and authenticity to each show. Their involvement celebrates the connection between history, mythology, and the natural world.
Alongside this, Kynren – An Epic Tale of England will continue on Saturday nights with its 1,000-strong cast and crew of volunteers. Kynren is already an integral landmark attraction in the North East and draws both local audiences and visitors from across the UK.
Future phases of development will introduce even more attractions, including The Lone Centurion, Tales of the Tudors, Conquest of the Seas and legendary stories such as Excalibur and Robin Hood, ensuring that each visit offers something fresh and exciting.