The creators of Kynren – An Epic Tale of England have unveiled their most ambitious and exciting project to date: a brand-new historical theme park, Kynren – The Storied Lands.
Set to open in summer 2026, subject to final planning approval, The Storied Lands will be a spectacular daytime attraction within the wider Kynren park in Bishop Auckland. This new experience will transport visitors through history, myth, and legend, bringing the past to life through breathtaking live-action performances.
Phase one of the park will feature five monumental shows and immersive experiences set against beautifully landscaped historical backdrops.
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.”
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.
As visitors step into the park, they will be transported back to Neolithic Britain and the era of the first settlers. Moving deeper into the experience, they will encounter an all-new Viking show, where warriors clash, sparks fly, and fires rage in an interactive multi-sensory spectacle of Norse life.
In The 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.
Another highlight is The Lost Feather, a captivating and visually stunning experience centered around the relationship between birds and humanity. Set on a 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.
Then 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.
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.
Councillor Amanda Hopgood welcomed the development and said: “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.”
