Major update on iconic UK theme park which suddenly closed as attraction ‘SAVED’ – but forced to relocate across Britain
PART of an iconic theme park set to be scrapped has miraculously been saved – but it’ll have to relocate across the country.
Fans of the attraction were gutted to see it go but now, in a bittersweet turn of events, one feature will continue on elsewhere.
Flambards Theme Park, Cornwall, went under the hammer with Lay’s Auctioneers and closed its doors in November last year, much to the dismay of customers.
However, one feature of the Helston theme park has been bought up and will be revived 450 miles away – in Durham.
The entire Victorian Village was snapped up by an unexpected buyer who offered a last minute bid.
Each beloved display of the Victorian Village offered an insight into what it would look like to live in 19th century Britain.
It included items from 50 intricately detailed shops and became a family favourite in Flambards .
There was a historic haberdashery, pawn brokers, apothecary, blacksmith, grocers, a tobacconist and a jewellers – all with detailed props and artefacts.
In a surprise move, Anna Warnecke, CEO of Kynren, purchased the model village, keeping the iconic collection intact.
Kynren is a historical tourist attraction including a 90-minute live show depicting pivotal moments in British history.
Anna said: “The level of detail and authenticity in the Flambards Victorian Village is simply astonishing.
“To be able to bring this world to life as part of The Storied Lands is a dream come true.
“The shopfronts, interiors, and artefacts will provide an incredible setting for a truly immersive show that will transport audiences back to the heart of Victorian England.
“We cannot wait to unveil this spectacular experience as part of our new park.”
Now the collection will be on display in the forthcoming show, set to debut in 2026, called Kynren The Storied Lands.
The much-anticipated show will feature a range of stunts, re-enactments and performances.
Flambards and Lay’s Auctioneers have praised Kynren’s decision to take on the collection and commitment to keeping the entire village intact.
Kynren was not the only interested party, however, with a range of buyers keen to take home a piece of the legendary model.
David Lay, founder of Lay’s Auctioneers, apologised to buyers who had previously expressed interest.
He commented: “While we are thrilled that the Victorian Village has found such a fitting new home, we understand that some collectors and enthusiasts had hoped to purchase individual elements of the collection.
“We regret any disappointment this may cause, but we remain excited for the future of this extraordinary display.”
Now that the collection has been purchased, it is no longer available to view at the auction.
Many other components of Flambards theme park, some 1,600 items, are still up for sale.
For those solely interested in the Victorian Village, a refund can be issued by reaching out to Flambards.