KYNREN ROARS INTO 2025 WITH THREE AWARD NOMINATIONS

2025 marks a thrilling milestone for Kynren – An Epic Tale of England, as the celebrated North East attraction begins its tenth-anniversary season with three prominent award finalist placements in both national and regional categories.

Kynren has been honoured as finalists in:

• VisitEngland's Tourism Superstar 2025: Wendy Wilshere, Head of Volunteer Casting and Engagement, is one of ten finalists in this prestigious national competition. Wendy earned her spot after winning Durham Tourism Superstar 2024, recognising her dedication to Kynren and its volunteers. Voting opens on 17th February 2025, and the winner will be announced during English Tourism Week.
• North East England Tourism Awards 2025:
  • Tourism Festival or Event: Kynren's spectacular tenth-anniversary production has made the final three in this category. For the first time, the winner will be decided by public vote which is now open.
  • Volunteer of the Year: Kynren's 1,000-strong volunteer team has been shortlisted as one of three finalists, recognising their unwavering dedication and enthusiasm integral to the show's success.

Wendy Wilshere, reflecting on her finalist position for VisitEngland's Tourism Superstar, shared: “I am absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted for VisitEngland's Tourism Superstar award. The other nominees are incredible individuals who work tirelessly in their roles, so it's a real honour to stand alongside them. Having been part of Kynren since its first year as a volunteer, and now as an employee during this special anniversary season, is wonderful. I can't wait to work alongside our amazing volunteers to make this summer our best yet!”

VisitEngland's Tourism Superstar competition celebrates individuals in the tourism industry who go above and beyond to provide unforgettable visitor experiences. The winner is decided by public vote, and Kynren is encouraging everyone to support Wendy and cast their vote starting 17th February 2025.

The North East England Tourism Awards showcase excellence, innovation, and best practices in the region's tourism sector. Kynren's tenth-anniversary production has been recognised for its quality and creativity, while the volunteer team's finalist placement highlights the vital role they play in delivering this world-class show. Winners will be announced at a ceremony on Thursday, 20th March 2025.

Anna Warnecke, CEO of Kynren, said: “I am immensely proud of our wonderful show and our fantastic team of volunteers in receiving these prestigious finalist placements. This show wouldn't be possible without the enthusiasm and dedication of our volunteers, who rehearse tirelessly to deliver a flawless performance every summer. I hope the public will get behind them and vote, so they receive the recognition they truly deserve.”

How to Support Kynren

• To vote for Wendy Wilshere in VisitEngland's Tourism Superstar competition, visit www.visitbritain.org/working-us/visitenglands-tourism-superstar-award starting 17th February 2025
• To vote in the Tourism Festival or Event category for the North East England Tourism Awards 2025, visit: https://visitengland-chapters.secure-platform.com/a/organizations/NEA/gallery?roundId=378
• To learn more about Kynren and book tickets for its tenth-anniversary season, visit www.kynren.com

ENDS

For more information contact Nikki@visitor-marketing.co.uk 07525 780624

Notes to editors  

About Kynren:
Kynren – An Epic Tale of England is produced by 11Arches, a registered charity whose mission is to deliver world-class shows and attractions, underpinned by a robust arts, education, and community development programme.

Since its launch in 2016 in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, Kynren has become the UK's 'must-see' live-action show. The production takes the audience on an immersive journey through 2,000 years of history, myth, and legend. Performed on a sprawling 7.5-acre stage – the size of five football pitches – the 90-minute show starts at sunset and ends under the starlit sky.  It follows the story of Young Arthur on his quest through time to discover the story of us and features:

• 29 dramatic scenes, from Viking invasions to Roman rule, jousting knights, and relive the excitement of railway mania with our replica Locomotion no 1 in action , roaring across the stage in a recreation of its first journey to mark the railway's 200th anniversary.
• A 1,000-strong cast and crew of volunteers.
• Dazzling stunts, pyrotechnics, and special effects.
• Magnificent horses and a menagerie of starring animals, including a much-loved gaggle of geese.
• The epic soundtrack, composed by award-winning Nathan Stornetta, evokes drama and excitement, while narration by Kevin Whately guides audiences through the action.

All of this takes place in a purpose-built 8,000-seat tribune, providing an unforgettable experience for visitors from around the world.

Pre-Show Experience: Return of the Vikings
Visitors can enjoy the Viking Village pre-show experience, exploring a 9th-century Viking settlement where history comes to life. Feel the heat as sparks fly in the blacksmith's forge, watch warriors hone their battle skills, marvel at craftspeople weaving and carving by hand, meet fisherwomen at work, and see villagers tending animals. This immersive, hands-on experience sets the stage for the spectacular main event.

About Kynren's 2025 Season and Tickets

The tenth-anniversary season runs on Saturday nights from 19th July to 13th September 2025, featuring a spectacular 90-minute performance starting at sunset.

Tickets start at £30 for adults and £20 for children, with premium seating options available. Discounts are offered for group bookings.

For more details and to book tickets, visit www.kynren.com

Discover Bishop Auckland:
Kynren is located in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, a town that has evolved into a vibrant cultural destination. Visitors can explore:

• Auckland Palace, Gardens and Deer Park: The impressive residence of the Prince Bishops of Durham.
• The Mining Art Gallery: Showcasing powerful depictions of mining life.
• The Spanish Art Gallery: A unique home to rare and historic pieces of art honouring Spain and its connection to the area.
• The Faith Museum: Exploring 6,000 years of British history through the lens of faith.

Together, these attractions create a rich cultural experience for all who visit, complementing the unforgettable spectacle of Kynren.