All aboard the celebrations! Kynren – An Epic Tale of England – is marking the 200th anniversary of Locomotion No. 1’s first journey on the world’s first passenger railway with its own heritage-style station and replica steam engine – the perfect pre-show photo opportunity.
The newly built Kynren Station, inspired by the architecture of Stanhope Station, sits proudly within the show site, complete with a striking full-size replica of Locomotion No. 1 – the very same engine that powers one of Kynren’s most spectacular scenes. While this model doesn’t roar into action, it offers an iconic backdrop for selfies and family photos, and you may even encounter some costumed characters by the platform – including Mr George Stephenson himself.
This new feature is part of Kynren’s expanded pre-show experience, alongside the ever-popular Viking Village, and celebrates the year-long S&DR200 festival taking place across County Durham and the Tees Valley. The official bicentenary will be marked on 27th September 2025, but events and installations are already drawing attention across the region within the national Railway200 campaign.
Anna Warnecke, CEO of Kynren, said: “We’re proud to be celebrating 200 years of the Stockton & Darlington Railway – this moment in railway history changed the world, and it started right here in our region and in fact just up the road from Kynren. The replica station and engine are a fitting tribute and a fun addition to our growing pre-show experience. It’s been fantastic to see visitors discover our new station and replica engine this summer.”
The Stockton & Darlington Railway, established in 1825, was a 26-mile line transporting coal and mixed goods from the mines of South Durham to the River Tees at Stockton, passing through Shildon, Darlington, and Yarm. On 27th September 1825, Locomotion No. 1 carried passengers for the first time – a world-first moment that changed the course of history.
This milestone is recreated live at Kynren – An Epic Tale of England night show, where a full-scale replica of Locomotion No. 1 powers across the stage, complete with pyrotechnics, cavalry charges, and a cinematic soundtrack – all part of a breathless 90-minute whistlestop tour through 2,000 years of myth, legend, and real history.
Performances run every Saturday night until 13th September, starting at sunset and ending under the stars. Tickets start from £30 for adults and £20 for under-18s. Children aged 3 and under go free when seated on an adult’s knee.
For further information and to book tickets, click here.