The phase I of the construction of a historical theme park has been approved. Kynren The Storied Lands is set to be a new daytime attraction that will be set within the wider Kynren attraction in Bishop Auckland, County Durham.
The plans include a 3,600-seated arena for a bird show and were approved by Durham County Council’s planning committee on Thursday this week.
Also read: Waterpark finally ready to open its doors 16 years after the announcement in UK.
Project Factsheet
Kynren – The Storied Lands (United Kingdom)
- This is a new “time-traveling theme park” currently under development and scheduled to open in the summer of 2026.
Location: Bishop Auckland, near the historic city of Durham, in North East England, UK. It is situated within the wider Kynren Park.
Concept: Unlike traditional theme parks with rides, The Storied Lands will focus on immersive experiences and live-action performances that transport visitors through history, myth, and legend.
Attractions (Phase one): The initial phase will include five major shows and immersive experiences set against historical backdrops:
- Neolithic Britain: An experience taking visitors back to the time of the first settlers.
- The Viking Show: A multi-sensory spectacle depicting Viking life with battles, fire, and action.
- The Legend of the Wear: A water show on a giant lake retelling the myth of the Lambton Worm with thrilling stunts.
- The Lost Feather: A visually captivating show exploring the relationship between birds and humans, set on a stage inspired by a bird’s nest.
- Fina: An epic show set in Victorian England, culminating in a medieval knights’ clash on horseback featuring daring stunts. Auckland Palace will serve as a striking backdrop.
Future developments: Later phases are planned to introduce attractions themed around the Tudors, the legend of the Lone Centurion, tales of Robin Hood and Excalibur, and a “Conquest of the Seas” experience.
Existing show: The existing Kynren – An Epic Tale of England, a nighttime show with a large cast, will continue to run on Saturday nights.
Some objectors warned the new development did not support the vitality of Bishop Auckland town centre. However, the council’s planning officers disputed the concerns that were raised.
The Lost Feather Bird Show Arena
Additionally, an oval-shaped arena resembling a bird’s nest will be created for The Lost Feather bird show. Also, it will include a small lake, landscaped hillside performance area and performance bridge.
According to a report by planning officers, the development “would not impact the vitality and viability of Bishop Auckland town centre” due to its link to the “established operation” of the Kynren site. It was also stated the plans would support Bishop Auckland, increasing footfall in the vicinity.
Opening Date of the Theme Park
The theme park is expected to open in summer 2026. The focus of The Storied Lands will be live action shows with storytelling stunts and music, rather than rides.
Phase one of the park will feature up to five shows and immersive experiences. Furthermore, it will have themes including Neolithic Britain, Viking battles, and the gas-lit streets of Victorian England.
Additionally, Legend of the Wear performance will utilize water stunts to retell the Lambton Worm myth.
The separate planning applications are expected to be submitted in due course.
Kynren’s existing evening show has already generated a significant profile. It generates up to £65.5m to the north-east of England economy. This is according to the information revealed by Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Also read: Universal Unveils Plans for First European Theme Park in the UK
