Creators of Kynren spectacular announce historical theme park

The Kynren – An Epic Tale of England show has wowed groups for nearly a decade, with a 1,000-strong cast and crew of volunteers. Now a new attraction will take the stories of the past to a new level. 

Unlike traditional theme parks that focus on rides, Kynren – The Storied Lands will deliver multiple live action shows with immersive storytelling and innovative technology.

Set to open in the summer of 2026, visitors who step into the park 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 in an interactive multi-sensory demonstration of Norse life.

Anna Warnecke, CEO 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.”

What to expect

In The Legend of the Wear, a giant lake becomes the stage for water stunts and a retelling of the Lambton Worm myth. 

Another highlight is The Lost Feather, which is centred around the relationship between birds and humanity. Set on a stage inspired by a bird’s nest, this show is said to explore the beauty, power and fragility of bird species from around the world, highlighting their struggles and triumphs in a rapidly changing environment.

Then, visitors can step into the gas-lit streets of Victorian England and find themselves swept up in the sights, sounds and stories of the era. The adventure builds to the park’s biggest show – Fina.

This is where medieval knights clash on horseback, and a female warrior’s courage and skill are put to the test in a display of horsemanship and daring stunts.

Performers will bring historical scenes to life on enormous sets, enhanced by special effects, with Auckland Palace providing a historical backdrop.

The Kynren show 

Alongside the theme park, Kynren – An Epic Tale of England will continue with its summer seasons on Saturday nights with its 1,000-strong cast and crew of volunteers, in which groups of 20 or more people benefit from discounted tickets. 

Kynren is produced by 11Arches, a registered charity dedicated to creating shows that inspire, educate and drive social and economic regeneration. Kynren – An Epic Tale of England is its largest annual event which is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year. The 2025 season runs from 19th July – 13th September.

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

Jonathan Ruffer, founder of 11Arches

Jonathan Ruffer, founder of 11Arches, said: “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.”