Things to Do in Sunderland
Sunderland brings together a river, a harbour and a long run of coast, and a single day can take in all three. Here is where to start.
Roker and Seaburn
At Roker and Seaburn a promenade runs beside the sand, which makes a walk in most kinds of weather. Cafes and shelters are spaced along it, and the wind off the North Sea is sharper than it looks from inside.
At Roker and Seaburn a promenade runs beside the sand, which makes a walk in most kinds of weather.
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The River Wear
The Wear cuts across the city, and both banks have paths for walking, with views of the bridges and of land once given over to shipbuilding. The riverside is quietest on weekday mornings, when you will share it mostly with dog walkers. Benches are spaced along the way, and the paths are wide enough for two to walk side by side.
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Somewhere to book a room or a table for the evening, in Sunderland itself.
Galleries and local history
Galleries and local history displays can be found near the centre and by the river. They are a good fit for a changeable afternoon, and many are modest in size. Check the days they open before you set off.
Galleries and local history displays can be found near the centre and by the river.
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Newcastle by Metro
The Tyne and Wear Metro and the train both link Sunderland with Newcastle, so a larger city is simple to add on. The same journey runs the other way for anyone visiting from there who fancies the sea.
The Tyne and Wear Metro and the train both link Sunderland with Newcastle, so a larger city is simple to add on.
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Along the coast
Beyond the city limits the coast continues in both directions, with cliff top paths and small beaches reached by bus. Watch the tide and the weather, and carry something windproof whatever the forecast says. Some paths run close to cliff edges, so keep to the marked routes.
Beyond the city limits the coast continues in both directions, with cliff top paths and small beaches reached by bus.
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Putting a day together
Take the Metro or a bus out to the coast in the morning, when the promenade is quiet, then come back towards the river in the afternoon. The centre is a sensible place to finish, with the station close at hand, so you can leave at your own pace without a long journey after dark.
Take the Metro or a bus out to the coast in the morning, when the promenade is quiet, then come back towards the river in the afternoon.
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Planning a Sunderland day
The railway station in the centre also serves the Metro, which makes arrival simple. Under eighteens are excluded from this site and from the listings this guide points to.
The railway station in the centre also serves the Metro, which makes arrival simple.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes. The Metro and buses reach the seafront and the river, and the centre is easy to walk across.
No. It only lists members, so an outing is a private arrangement between two people.
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