England’s rich history and legendary myths are coming to life in a brand-new format as the UK prepares to open its first live-action historical theme park. Titled Kynren – The Storied Lands, the attraction is located in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, and is scheduled to welcome visitors starting on 18 July. The park will remain open for the season until 12 September.
The project builds upon the success of the outdoor night show, An Epic Tale of England, which first launched in 2016. That original production featured nearly 30 scenes spanning 2,000 years of history, ranging from Boudicca’s conflict with the Roman Empire to the dawn of the locomotive era. The new site has now transformed into a comprehensive day-to-night experience, complete with a dedicated viking settlement where visitors can observe craftsmen, blacksmiths, and warriors preparing for combat.
Tickets for Kynren – The Storied Lands grant guests access to a variety of immersive shows and experiences scheduled throughout the day. The program includes The Trusty Steed, a performance showcasing medieval knights and equestrian stunts, and The Lost Feather, which highlights birds of prey such as eagles, vultures, owls, cranes, and macaws. Other attractions include Land of the Vikings, featuring stage combat; Legend of the Wear, a lakeside production based on the Lambton Worm myth; and the Victorian Imaginariums, an interactive outdoor maze populated by historical characters.
The site features expansive, detailed sets, including a medieval hamlet and various performance arenas alongside the viking settlement. Looking ahead, organizers have announced plans to expand the park next year with the addition of a Victorian Village, which will house more than 40 shops and homes.
The UK is preparing for a clash to rival the Battle of Stamford Bridge, with former friends pitted against each other, echoing drums and lots of vikings, all taking place in an arena.
No, we don’t mean Norway vs England in the World Cup on Saturday – we’re talking about the launch of Kynren – The Storied Lands.
