Sunderland: The Complete Guide

Panoramic View Of Hendon Beach
CC BY-SA 3.0 / somaliayaswan

Sunderland is a port city in Tyne and Wear, England. It is situated 12 miles north-east of Durham and 10 miles south-east of Newcastle upon Tyne, at the mouth of the River Wear. Visiting Sunderland provides a captivating mix of urban excitement and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a diverse experience. Located on the northeast coast of England, Sunderland is known for its stunning coastline, featuring beaches like Roker and Seaburn. These sandy stretches are perfect for a day of relaxation, offering opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and coastal walks. The Roker Pier and Lighthouse add to the scenic charm, while the Sunderland Marina provides a picturesque spot for dining and leisure activities. The city’s riverside, lined with parks and green spaces, offers tranquil escapes and picturesque views, making it an ideal location for picnics and leisurely strolls.

History of Sunderland

Sunderland: Early Beginnings

Sunderland’s history dates back to the early medieval period when it was a small fishing village. Its name is derived from “Sundered Land,” reflecting its origins by the river.

Sunderland: Industrial Growth

During the Industrial Revolution, Sunderland grew rapidly as a significant shipbuilding center. The town’s economy thrived with coal mining, glass making, and shipbuilding industries.

Sunderland: Modern Development

In the 20th century, Sunderland evolved into a modern city with a strong cultural identity. It continues to celebrate its industrial heritage while embracing new developments in education, arts, and technology.

Visiting Sunderland for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Sunderland on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

This website uses affiliate links which earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Best things to do and See in Sunderland

1. Explore Roker and Seaburn Beaches

Enjoy the sandy shores, clear waters, and scenic views of Roker and Seaburn beaches, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

2. Visit the Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens

Discover local history, natural sciences, and art exhibits at the Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, featuring a beautiful indoor garden.

3. Walk Along the Sunderland Riverside

Take a leisurely stroll along the Wearside riverside, enjoying the parks, green spaces, and picturesque views.

4. Discover the National Glass Centre

Witness glass-blowing demonstrations and explore exhibitions dedicated to the art and history of glassmaking at the National Glass Centre.

5. Attend a Performance at Sunderland Empire Theatre

Enjoy a variety of performances, from musicals to dramas, at the historic Sunderland Empire Theatre.

Experience innovative works from local and international artists at the Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art.

7. Visit the Hylton Castle

Explore the medieval Hylton Castle, a historic landmark with fascinating stories and beautiful architecture.

8. Enjoy Mowbray Park

Relax in Mowbray Park, one of the oldest parks in the Northeast, featuring beautiful gardens, a lake, and a play area for children.

9. Discover the Historic Roker Pier and Lighthouse

Take a tour of the Roker Pier and Lighthouse, enjoying the stunning coastal views and learning about its maritime history.

10. Shop and Dine in Sunderland City Centre

Explore Sunderland’s city center, filled with shops, cafes, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for a day out.

Best Day Trips from Sunderland

A day trip from Sunderland offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Sunderland provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary.

Washington Old Hall

Eagles At Washington Old Hall
Public Domain / ProhibitOnions
Washington Old Hall is a manor house located in Washington Village, Tyne and Wear, England, United Kingdom. It was the ancestral home of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Washington Old Hall is now operated by the National Trust. Visitors can explore the inside of the manor’s old Hall with its wood-panelled walls, carved-oak furniture and stone-flagged…
Location: The Avenue, Washington, England, NE38 7LE, United Kingdom | Hours: 10:00 - 17:00 | Website | Distance: 8.5km
Visiting Washington Old Hall

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Sunderland . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

South Shields

South Shields
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Stuart Locke
South Shields is a coastal town and a seaside resort at the mouth of the River Tyne, downstream from Newcastle upon Tyne in North East England. Visiting South Shields offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture. Nestled on the northeastern coast of England, this charming seaside town is renowned for its stunning beaches, including…
Visiting South Shields

Traveling to a country with a different currency? Avoid ATM transaction fees and pay in local currency with a Wise Card. Having used it for over 5 years, we've saved loads on fees!

Powered by GetYourGuide

Gateshead

Newcastle And Gateshead Quayside With Bridges
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Wilka Hudson
Gateshead is a vibrant town located on the southern bank of the River Tyne, directly opposite Newcastle upon Tyne in the North East of England. Its riverside setting offers stunning views and easy access to some of the region’s most iconic landmarks, including the striking Millennium Bridge and the Sage Gateshead, a renowned centre for music and performing arts. Visitors…
Visiting Gateshead
Powered by GetYourGuide

Newcastle upon Tyne

Tyne Bridge
CC BY-SA 2.0 / herdiephoto
Newcastle upon Tyne, often shortened to simply Newcastle, is the most populous city and metropolitan borough in North East England. It forms the core of the Tyneside conurbation, the eighth most populous urban area in the United Kingdom. It is situated on the northern bank of the River Tyne. The city developed around the Roman settlement Pons Aelius around a…
Visiting Newcastle upon Tyne
Powered by GetYourGuide

Durham

Durham
Visiting Durham in the North East of England offers a striking blend of charm, tradition, and scenic beauty. The compact city centre is wrapped in a loop of the River Wear, which lends itself to peaceful riverside walks and spectacular views of the cathedral and castle perched high above. With its cobbled lanes and independent shops, Durham is a great…
Visiting Durham
Powered by GetYourGuide

Hexham

Hexham is a market town and civil parish in the south west of Northumberland, England, on the south bank of the River Tyne which forms by the confluence of two rivers: the North Tyne and the South Tyne. A visit to Hexham is like stepping back in time, with its cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and the magnificent Hexham Abbey, which…
Visiting Hexham
Powered by GetYourGuide

Brampton, Carlisle

Brampton Market Place
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Rose and Trev Clough / Brampton, Market Place
Brampton is a small market town, civil parish and electoral ward within the City of Carlisle district of Cumbria, England, about 9 miles (14 km) east of Carlisle and 2 miles (3.2 km) south of Hadrian's Wall. Historically part of Cumberland, it is situated off the A69 road which bypasses it. Brampton railway station, on the Newcastle and Carlisle Railway,…
Visiting Brampton, Carlisle

Carlisle

Carlisle Castle
Visiting Carlisle, nestled in the far north of Cumbria near the Scottish border, offers a unique experience that blends urban charm with striking natural surroundings. The city acts as a gateway to both the Lake District and Hadrian’s Wall Country, making it an excellent base for exploring northern England’s landscapes and heritage sites. Whether you're here for a weekend or…
Visiting Carlisle

York

York Shambles
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Peter K Burian
Nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire, York is a city that effortlessly blends old-world charm with modern vibrancy. Whether you're strolling through its winding streets, lined with quirky independent shops and cozy cafés, or soaking in the atmosphere of its bustling markets, the city offers a rich and immersive experience. Its compact nature makes it a delight to explore…
Visiting York
Powered by GetYourGuide

Bowness-on-Solway

Pavilion At The Start And End Of The Hadrians Wall Path At Bowness Cumberland
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Ian S / The start of the Hadrian's Wall Walk
Bowness-on-Solway is a small village of fewer than 100 houses in Cumbria in northwest England. It is situated to the west of Carlisle on the southern side of the Solway Firth estuary separating England and Scotland and has spectacular views across the Solway estuary to Dumfries & Galloway. The village is part of the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural…
Visiting Bowness-on-Solway

Leeds

Leeds
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Andrew Abbott
Leeds, set in the heart of West Yorkshire, offers a dynamic mix of culture, shopping, and green spaces that makes it a rewarding destination for a city break or a longer stay. Its thriving city centre is packed with Victorian arcades, contemporary shopping centres like Trinity Leeds, and a food scene that ranges from global street food to upscale dining.…
Visiting Leeds
Powered by GetYourGuide

Where to Stay in Sunderland

The best place to stay is near Roker or Seaburn Beach, where hotels and guesthouses provide scenic sea views and easy access to the coastal promenade. For a more urban experience, accommodations in the city center offer proximity to shops, museums, and transport links.

A 2-day stay is enough to explore the beaches, visit the National Glass Centre, and enjoy the city’s nightlife. A 3-day stay allows for trips to Durham, Newcastle, or historical sites along the River Wear.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Sunderland. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Sunderland Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Sunderland

Visiting Sunderland in Spring

Spring in Sunderland brings mild temperatures and blossoming landscapes, ideal for exploring parks, gardens, and enjoying the city’s scenic coastline.

Visiting Sunderland in Summer

Summer offers warm weather perfect for beach activities, outdoor festivals, and exploring Sunderland’s vibrant cultural scene, including its numerous events and performances.

Visiting Sunderland in Autumn

Autumn in Sunderland is marked by colorful foliage, providing a picturesque setting for sightseeing and experiencing local harvest festivals and cultural activities.

Visiting Sunderland in Winter

Winter transforms Sunderland into a cozy retreat with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and a peaceful coastal ambiance, perfect for a winter getaway.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 6°C
  • February 8°C
  • March 10°C
  • April 11°C
  • May 14°C
  • June 16°C
  • July 19°C
  • August 18°C
  • September 16°C
  • October 13°C
  • November 9°C
  • December 8°C

How to get to Sunderland

Traveling to Sunderland by Car

Driving to Sunderland is convenient with easy access via the A1(M) and A19 motorways. Ample parking is available in and around the city center.

Traveling to Sunderland by Train

Sunderland can be reached by train with services from major cities such as London, Newcastle, and Edinburgh. The local Metro system also connects Sunderland to surrounding areas.

Traveling to Sunderland by Bus

Bus services connect Sunderland with nearby towns and cities, providing a budget-friendly and straightforward way to reach the city.

Similar Blogs