A UK theme park with no rollercoasters or traditional rides has been recognised as one of Europe's best new attractions. Kynren, in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, offers live performances and historical shows instead of a typical theme park experience.
Its new attraction, The Storied Lands, has been recognised at the 2026 Parksmania Awards, despite only opening in July this year. The attraction features five different shows, with everything from Vikings to jousting tournaments and birds flying above the audience.
Highlights of The Storied Lands
One of the highlights is The Lost Feather, which features more than 250 exotic birds flying freely during the performance. There's also Legend of the Wear, a water-based show with special effects, while Land of the Vikings gives visitors a look at life during the Viking era.
The Trusty Seed is another of the performances, featuring horses and stunt displays. It's certainly not the sort of place where you'll spend hours queuing for a rollercoaster, but that's part of what makes it different.
Kynren's broader appeal
Kynren is already known for its outdoor performances, which tell stories from England's past using large casts, music and special effects. The site also puts on evening events, including a Pyromusical fireworks display.
And while The Storied Lands has only just completed its first season, there are already plans for more. A new attraction called Victorian Imaginariums is expected to open in July 2027, giving visitors another part of British history to explore.
Season closure and reopening
Anyone hoping to visit before the end of the year will have to wait, though, as the attraction has closed for the season. It is expected to reopen on July 7, 2027.
