Kynren Bishop Auckland wins Echo’s Visitor Economy Award

The spectacular outdoor theatre event, in Bishop Auckland, tells the story of 2,000 years of English history and draws thousands of crowds each summer.

The 1,000-strong volunteer cast and crew perform on a seven-and-a-half-acre outdoor stage featuring combat, stunts, horsemanship, stunning pyrotechnics and amazing special effects.

Their nomination read: “Since the Covid-19 pandemic, audiences have grown strongly – up 33% in 2025, followed by a further 12% increase in 2025.

“Average evening attendances are now on par with Kynren’s landmark first season in 2016, demonstrating the show’s enduring appeal and bounce-back.

“More than 60% of visitors now travel from outside the North East, underlining Kynren’s role as a driver of tourism to the region.

“Over its first decade, Kynren has attracted more than 430,000 visitors and contributed £65.5 million to the regional economy. This is incredibly impressive, but even more so when you consider there are only circa 10 events per year!”

After the winner was confirmed, volunteers Bethany and Paul made their way to the stage and spoke highly of the event, which has become a much-loved attraction to the region.

Bethany said: “Kynren is such a success because of the spirit of the volunteers. We couldn’t do it without them, and it’s not just people on stage.

“We have props teams, pyrotechnics, people who look after our animals.”

When asked what’s next, Paul pointed to the new theme park Kynren: The Storied Lands, which will be opening next year.

Host Peter Barron added: “The Kynren story is continuing to develop and grow, there’s no doubt you have enriched County Durham and transformed the fortunes of Bishop Auckland.”