CONFIRMED: NEW Theme Park Expansion Set to Open in Summer 2026!

The United Kingdom is getting a brand-new theme park experience, and it’s going to be absolutely massive.

©Kynren

If you’re a fan of history, live performances, and immersive storytelling, you’re going to want to hear about this one. A company that’s been wowing audiences with their nighttime spectacular for years just announced they’re building an entirely new daytime park on the same property. We’re talking time travel through England’s most iconic periods, and it’s set to open next summer!

What’s Coming to England

So here’s the deal. You might’ve heard of Kynren – An Epic Tale of England, which is this insanely popular nighttime show that features over 1000 volunteer performers taking you through 2000 years of English history. It’s basically a 90-minute theatrical experience that happens nearly every Saturday night with Auckland Palace as the backdrop, and people have been raving about it for years.

©Peter Haygarth

Well, the charity behind Kynren called 11Arches dropped some major news. They’re building a whole new daytime attraction called Kynren – The Storied Lands within the broader Kynren Park in Bishop Auckland, and it’s going to open in Summer 2026 (assuming they get final planning approval). Just keep in mind that this isn’t your typical theme park, though, so don’t go in expecting roller coasters and spinning teacups.

What Makes This Different

Here’s what makes this place unique. Instead of traditional rides, you’re getting fully immersive experiences and theatrical shows that transport you through different eras of British history. We’re talking heart-pounding action, thrilling stunts, incredible performances, epic music, and innovative technology all wrapped up in an emotional journey through time.

©11Arches

They’re planning five main experiences for phase one, and they all sound absolutely wild. First up, you’ll be transported to Fruma: Neolithic Britain, where you’ll experience the era of the first settlers. Then there’s Land of the Vikings, where warriors clash, and fires rage in what they’re calling a multi-sensory spectacle of Viking life (yes, please).

©Kynren

The Legend of the Wear is going to be insane. Picture this: a giant lake becomes the stage for thrilling water stunts as they retell the myth of the Lambton Worm. Apparently, a monstrous, cursed creature emerges from the water, which honestly sounds like something we’d wait in line for hours to see.

©Kynren

Then there’s The Lost Feather, which is described as a visually stunning free-flying bird show centered around the relationship between birds and humanity. It’s set on a stage inspired by a bird’s nest and will showcase bird species from around the world, highlighting their struggles and triumphs. You’ll also get to explore Victorian Adventure, where you’ll step into an immersive Victorian experience and meet some larger-than-life characters on gaslit streets.

©Kynren

The grand finale is Fina, where medieval knights clash on horseback, and a fearless female warrior shows off her courage and skill in what sounds like an absolutely breathtaking display of horsemanship and daring stunts. All of these performances will feature enormous sets, stunning special effects, and Auckland Palace as the backdrop. Plus, they’re incorporating majestic horses, free-flying birds, and other animals into the shows to add authenticity.

What People Are Saying

The really cool part is that future phases will bring even more attractions, including The Lone Centurion, Tales of the Tudors, Conquest of the Seas, and legendary stories like Excalibur and Robin Hood. That means each visit will offer something fresh and exciting as the park grows.

©Peter Haygarth

Now, we’ve got to be real with you. The reaction from theme park fans in the UK has been split. Some people are absolutely thrilled about getting a new attraction of this scale, especially since the UK doesn’t have as many theme parks as the US does. Sure, there are great spots like Alton Towers, LEGOLAND Windsor, and Thorpe Park, but this is definitely bringing something different to the table.

©Luxe Magazine

On the flip side, some folks aren’t convinced it’ll be successful without traditional rides. It’s definitely a gamble to open a “theme park” that’s focused entirely on shows and immersive experiences rather than thrill rides, but we think that’s what makes it interesting. Plus, Kynren – An Epic Tale of England is already a landmark attraction in the North East that draws audiences from across the UK, so they’ve got a proven track record.

©Kynren

We’ll be sure to keep you updated as we hear more, so stay tuned to DFB!

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