A historical theme park earmarked to open in 2026 could help establish County Durham as one of the “great UK visitor destinations”.
Kynren – The Storied Lands, is predicted to be a “spectacular” daytime attraction within the wider Kynren park in Bishop Auckland, and aims to transport visitors through history, myth and legend through live-action performances. Phase one of the park will feature five “monumental” shows and immersive experiences set against landscaped historical backdrops; with further phases of development to introduce more attractions.
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 a Viking show where warriors clash and sparks fly in an interactive spectacle of Norse life.
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 expected to be The Lost Feather, set on a stage inspired by a bird’s nest to explore the beauty, power and fragility of bird species from around the world.
Visitors can step into the gaslit streets of Victorian England before ending at the park’s biggest show – Fina. Promising to be an epic spectacle, medieval knight clash on horseback and a fearless female warrior’s courage and skill are put to the test in a display of horsemanship and daring stunts.
(Image: Kynren)
While Kynren won’t have any rides, bosses expect the journey into the nation’s history to provide plenty of entertainment for visitors. Anna Warnecke, CEO at Kynren, described the park as a game changer for the entire UK visitor experience market.
She said: “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.”
Durham County councillor Amanda Hopgood welcomed the development, and said that the park could help County Durham establish itself as one of the great UK visitor destinations. She said: “This extravaganza will sit at the heart of the County’s offering”.
Millions of pounds are being invested into the project, and it is hoped that the theme park will play a key role in regenerative tourism, creating hunderds of local jobs. Jonathan Ruffer, founder of Kynren operator 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. 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.”
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View news Source: https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/whats-on/family-kids-news/kynren-theme-park-bishop-auckland-30991372
