Trains to Kynren 2026: Nearest station, popular routes & event info

• Nearest station: Bishop Auckland station is the closest to Kynren. Located just 1 mile (1.6 kilometres) away, passengers can choose from direct hourly services operated by Northern. Getting to the Kynren site from all corners of the country is straightforward. Major stops on the line include Saltburn, Eaglescliffe and Darlington, with the rail network expanding further to destinations such as Durham, London and Sunderland. 
• Onward travel for Kynren: With quick and easy travel methods for your arrival, you’ll be entering the gates and stepping back in time in an instant. Local taxis cannot drop you off directly onto the Kynren site, so these are your options:

- Walk: Kynren is within easy reach on foot, taking less than 15 minutes from Bishop Auckland station.

- Shuttle bus: Alternatively, visitors can hop on a pre-booked shuttle bus (returns cost £3.00 per person) at Bishop Auckland Market Place, a 5-minute walk from the station.

• Station facilities: All trains arrive at and depart from the station’s single platform, which is level with the main entrance. Stay comfortable and dry under the sheltered waiting area, and passengers requiring assistance can use the ramps, tactile paving and the Passenger Assist meeting points to navigate the station (arrange before travelling to avoid waiting). The ticket office is open 06:50-12:25 and 13:00-16:25 Monday to Friday and 08:50-13:25 on Saturday, and ticket machines are available outside these opening hours. For those exploring the rest of the market town, you’ll find seamless transport links outside the station with taxis and several local bus routes.

Kynren is no ordinary theatre performance. Set against the stunning Auckland Castle and lake as the sun goes down, this world-class panoramic spectacle enchants guests with flames, lights, dancers, animals and incredible sound effects. Can’t wait to witness it all yourself? Here are handy details on the show and venue to get the most out of your visit.

Opening hours and show start times

Opening times for the new theme park, Kynren - The Storied Lands (set to launch this year), will be confirmed at a later date. If you’re booking a ticket for Kynren - An Epic Tale of England, the show is scheduled to begin at sunset, starting earlier towards the end of the summer. The first show on 18 July begins at 21:15, and the final performance on 12 September kicks off at 19:45.

Visitors gain access to the grounds two and a half hours before showtime, and the first shuttle bus from Bishop Auckland Market Place departs at the same time. Journey through the ages with free entertainment at the Viking Village or explore the food court and bars. To get the full experience and soak in the atmosphere, aim to arrive soon after the gates open.

What to wear to Kynren

This magnificent voyage through history unfolds in a nighttime open-air venue with minimal shelter. Be sure to double-check the weather forecast before heading out, and don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes to tour the park. The show begins at dusk, so bring cosy layers and accessories (e.g., blankets, small towels) to keep warm and dry.

Kynren 2026 facilities

Everything you need is available on site for a comfortable visit. You won’t go hungry with the wide selection of catering, from the food court serving affordable options to gourmet pre-show dining at the Arches Hall (pre-book dining packages). Bags (40 x 30 x 20 centimetres max.) are searched at the gates, and you can’t bring food and drink into the venue. However, empty non-aluminium bottles are allowed, and water filling stations are dotted around the site. 

Smoking and vaping are only permitted in the designated areas that are clearly marked. You can only bring drinks into the Tribune during the performance. To make the show as immersive and enjoyable for all guests, cameras are prohibited. If you need more layers, the venue has ponchos and blankets available for purchase.

Note: All Kynren food and retail outlets take card payments only. No cash points are available on site.

Accessibility on site

Kynren promises an unforgettable and accessible experience for all, from seating options to large-print menus. Some of these facilities (e.g., free Essential Companion and assistance dog tickets) will need to be pre-booked. All shuttle buses to/from the venue are wheelchair accessible. You’ll find disabled toilets upon arrival at the Welcome Plaza and directly behind the Tribune, where performances take place.

Staff are trained in disability awareness and will be on hand to support you at any point during your visit. If you need a break from the noise and crowds, feel free to use the quiet zones on site.

Travelling to Kynren by train couldn’t be easier. Several operators offer speedy services from a number of major cities to Darlington, where you can change for a train to Bishop Auckland. Read on for key information on a few popular routes, including starting prices and journey times.

London Kings Cross to Bishop Auckland

• Departing station: London Kings Cross
• Average journey duration: 3h 14m
• Cheapest ticket price: £24.80
• Earliest train: Departs at 06:33
• Latest train: Departs at 23:08
• Provider(s): London North Eastern Railway (LNER), Northern
• Is First Class available? Yes (LNER services only)

Newcastle to Bishop Auckland

• Departing station: Newcastle
• Average journey duration: 1h 4m
• Cheapest ticket price: £13.30
• Earliest train: Departs at 05:27
• Latest train: Departs at 20:30
• Provider(s): CrossCountry, LNER, Northern
• Is First Class available? Yes (CrossCountry and LNER services only)

Manchester Victoria to Bishop Auckland

• Departing station: Manchester Victoria
• Average journey duration: 2h 47m
• Cheapest ticket price: £19.90
• Earliest train: Departs at 04:30 (02:53 on Saturdays)
• Latest train: Departs at 19:00 (18:44 on Saturdays)
• Provider(s): TransPennine Express, CrossCountry, Northern
• Is First Class available? Yes (TransPennine Express and CrossCountry services only)

Edinburgh Waverley to Bishop Auckland

• Departing station: Edinburgh Waverley
• Average journey duration: 2h 39m
• Cheapest ticket price: £16.30
• Earliest train: Departs at 05:50
• Latest train: Departs at 19:00
• Provider(s): LNER, CrossCountry, Northern
• Is First Class available? Yes (CrossCountry and LNER services only)

There are plenty of ways to save on your train to Kynren 2026 when you plan ahead. Follow our top tips to snap up the best deal.

Book in advance

For the best price on train tickets, prioritise booking fares as soon as possible. Most operators release cheaper Advance tickets up to 12 weeks before you travel, with prices rising as the departure date approaches. All the Kynren show times are available online, helping you choose the most suitable trains for your arrival and departure.

Travel Off-Peak

Plan your visit to the park at a time when you can avoid rush hour (departures from 04:30 to 09:30 and 16:00 to 19:00 on weekdays). Not only is the journey more relaxed, but you can also take advantage of Off-Peak fares, cheaper than Anytime tickets. If you’re attending one of the Kynren - An Epic Tale of England shows on Saturday, Off-Peak tickets are valid anytime, offering the most flexibility.

Save with a Railcard

For even more great value, get at least 1/3 off the price of your ticket with a Railcard. Plenty of options are on offer, whether you’re a student, travelling with a group or frequently commuting in a certain region. Get great discounts on trains to Bishop Auckland with the Friends & Family Railcard, 16-25 Railcard, and more.

Consider an overnight stay

You can also reduce your travel costs and enjoy a cosier trip by arriving a day early or staying local after your epic Kynren experience. On Trip.com, you can book cheap train tickets as well as find affordable and luxury stays. Choose from convenient options in Bishop Auckland and the surrounding areas, from the Park Head Hotel to The Saxon Inn.