Kynren, the epic scale outdoor performance at Bishop Auckland in northeast England, has announced plans to build a brand-new historical theme park, Kynren – The Storied Lands.

Kynren – An Epic Tale of England is a massive 90-minute theatrical show presented on summer evenings on a seven-and-a-half acre stage with a cast and crew of 1,000 volunteers who tell the tale of two thousand years of English history, myth and legend – everything from King Arthur, through the Tudor dynasty, to the Victorians and two world wars. The show, which opened in July 2016, was modelled on the award-winning Cinéscénie produced by Puy du Fou in France, who helped develop it.

Puy du Fou’s pattern for global expansion (with the exception of their current plans for Oxfordshire) has been to first create an epic outdoor show, and then when it is established, to build a supporting theme park. It’s how they grew in the Vendée region of France in France, and it has been their strategy in Spain, the USA and China. Kynren are following that same pattern.

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, featuring regular shows, displays and immersive experiences. The first phase of development will have five shows and experiences, set in beautifully landscaped historical backdrops, and focusing on British history, myth, and legend.

Phase one of the park will feature five shows and immersive experiences.

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, (feature image)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 a park’s biggest show is 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 breath-taking display of horsemanship and daring stunts.

Future phases of development will introduce more planned attractions such as 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.

Meanwhile, the main show Kynren – An Epic Tale of England will be playing as usual, every Saturday from 19 July – 13 September.

(Photos: Courtesy 11 Arches)