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    This is Durham Blog

You are here > Home > Things to Do > Kynren - An Epic Tale of England

Kynren - An Epic Tale of England

11Arches
Flatts Farm
Toronto
Bishop Auckland
County Durham
DL14 7SF

Tel: +44 01388 436030

Email

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Add Kynren - An Epic Tale of England to your Itinerary

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Grand Finale all cast of Kynren view from the tribune
  • Grand Finale all cast of Kynren view from the tribune
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  • Kynren - An Epic Tale of England
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  • Kynren - An Epic Tale of England

About

Kynren – An Epic Tale of England is the UK’s ultimate live-action spectacular, a must-see for anyone seeking unforgettable entertainment. Held in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, this epic production takes audiences on an immersive journey through 2,000 years of history, myth, and legend.

In 2025, Kynren marks a special milestone – the 200th anniversary of the Locomotion No.1, the world’s first passenger steam train. This groundbreaking invention will take centre stage in the performance, with a breathtaking full-scale replica steaming into action as part of the spectacular story.

Every summer, a 1,000-strong volunteer cast and crew, trained by performance industry experts, bring this world-class show to life on a 7.5-acre stage – the size of five football pitches – in front of an 8,000-seat open-air amphitheatre known as the Tribune.

The action unfolds with dazzling displays of horsemanship, mass choreography, stunts, and combat, alongside stunning pyrotechnics, water jets, and state-of-the-art video projections. Expect a menagerie of animals, breathtaking scenery, and larger-than-life sets that transport you through time.

The soundtrack, composed by award-winning Nathan Stornetta, perfectly captures the drama and excitement of this unforgettable spectacle. Adding to the magic is the distinctive voice of Kevin Whately who narrates Old Arthur, the time-traveling guide who helps Young Arthur discover the meaning of ‘Kynren.’

Rooted in the Anglo-Saxon word "cynren," meaning generation, kin, or family, Kynren is a story brought to life by a passionate community, making it as meaningful as it is entertaining.

Sat 19th July 2025: Gates 18:45, show start 21:15
Sat 26th July: Gates 18:45, show start 21:15
Sat 2nd Aug: Gates 18:45, show start 21:15
Sat 9th Aug: Gates 18:30, show start 21:00
Sat 16th Aug: Gates 18:15, show start 20:45
Sat 23rd Aug: Gates 18:00, show start 20:30
Sat 30th Aug: Gates 17:45, show start 20:15
Sat 6th Sept: Gates 17:30, show start 20:00
Sat 13th Sept: Gates 17:15, show start 19:45

Book Tickets

Prices

Adult tickets from £30, Child from £20. Visit Kynren's website for all ticket options and prices.

Awards

  • Regional and MiscellaneousWeardale Visitor Network Member Weardale Visitor Network Member 2025

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating:

4.8 of 5 stars
2309 reviews
    • Excellent
      2007
    • Very Good
      190
    • Average
      70
    • Poor
      23
    • Terrible
      19

    Recent Reviews:

    • Maps01059461704
      Great performance, shame about the story.
      3 of 5 stars
      Tuesday, 24th September 2024
      A real mixed bag of emotions for me. On the one hand the production and logistics were incredible. The performers were amazing and the special effects superb. But, and it's a real big but, the story... Read full review
    • D3445JPdavidg
      A celebration of our wonderful history
      5 of 5 stars
      Sunday, 2nd February 2025
      Excellent, the performance centered on a celebration of our fabulous history without any pandering to the Wokery nonsense that permeates our everyday life. Bravo! Looking to book again this year!! Read full review
    • D456GBianw
      Colchester, United Kingdom
      Trip Type:
      Couples
      Just amazing.
      5 of 5 stars
      Tuesday, 18th February 2025
      The most amazing experience even if you have no interest in history. long walk to the arena but it was a loverly evening so no problem, there is a bus service for any one with mobility issues. Advice... Read full review
    Write a review
    © TripAdvisor 2025

    Access Information

    Opening Times

    Gates Open 18:45 (19 July 2025)
    DayTimes
    Saturday21:15
    Gates Open 18:45 (26 July 2025)
    DayTimes
    Saturday21:15
    Gates Open 18:45 (2 Aug 2025)
    DayTimes
    Saturday21:15
    Gates Open 18:30 (9 Aug 2025)
    DayTimes
    Saturday21:00
    Gates Open 18:15 (16 Aug 2025)
    DayTimes
    Saturday20:45
    Gates Open 18:00 (23 Aug 2025)
    DayTimes
    Saturday20:30
    Gates Open 17:45 (30 Aug 2025)
    DayTimes
    Saturday20:15
    Gates Open 17:30 (6 Sept 2025)
    DayTimes
    Saturday20:00
    Gates Open 17:15 (13 Sept 2025)
    DayTimes
    Saturday19:45

    * Every Saturday.

    facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kynren
    instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kynren/

    Map & Directions

    Map Link

    View Map

    Road Directions

    Kynren is accessed from the A689 just northwest of Bishop Auckland. Travelling From:

    The North  Follow the A1(M) south and exit at junction 61. Follow the signs for A688 to Bishop Auckland. Eleven Arches and allocated parking will be sign posted from the New Coundon roundabout as you approach Bishop Auckland. 

    The North (avoiding centre of Bishop Auckland) 

    Follow A1M to junction 63. Follow A167 south to Neville's Cross Durham. Turn right to the A690 to drive through Brancepeth and reach Willington. Turn left to join Hunwick Lane and through Hunwick village on the B6286. Turn left at the junction after the village and then left at the next roundabout.  

    The North West  From the A69 travel south on the A68 and follow signs for Darlington. At Fir Tree, just past the Duke of York Public House, turn left towards Howden-le-Wear and then follow signs for A689 to Bishop Auckland. Eleven Arches and allocated parking will be signed from the A689 when you reach Bishop Auckland.

    The West  Leave the M6 at Penrith and travel east on the A66. Exit on to the A67 at Bowes and follow signs for A688 to Bishop Auckland. Eleven Arches and allocated parking will be signed from Bishop Auckland. 

    The South Follow the A1(M) North, exit at junction 58 and follow signs for A68 to West Auckland. At the roundabout junction with the A688 turn right and follow signs for Bishop Auckland. Eleven Arches and allocated parking will be signed from Bishop Auckland.

    Parking

    There will be strict parking controls in roads adjacent to the show site and in the town centre on show nights, so if you are arriving by car, you must buy a show parking voucher in advance (£12 per car) allowing you to use one of our dedicated off-site car parks. Parking must be booked in advance.

    We have two off-site car parks to choose from, with a shuttle transfer system operating from each one if you prefer not to walk.  See full details of the parking arrangements and locations of the car parks on our website.  We also offer on-site parking for  Blue Badge holders.

    Please plan your journey to arrive at your chosen car park in plenty of time. There are lots of things to see, so please do come early to ensure you make the most of all there is to enjoy before the performance! Just as Arthur does in Kynren, you too can travel through time at our pre-show attractions before you take your seat in the Tribune. 

    Our attractions open at least 2.5 hours before the show starts. 

    Public Transport Directions

    Please see website for public transport details.

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