38 Great Things To Do In Sunderland

Whether you live in North East England or you’re planning a trip, Sunderland may not be high on your list of places to visit.

My adopted home doesn’t get a lot of love, but having lived here for more than seven years, I’ve found it’s home to some of the friendliest people, fantastic countryside and a burgeoning cultural landscape. There are fun things to do in Sunderland, I promise!

It’s often overlooked by people planning a UK city break Up North in favour of neighbouring destinations like Newcastle and Northumberland, but Sunderland is currently undergoing a facelift and has a lot to offer visitors and residents.

Check out my list of the best places to visit in Sunderland, from outdoor attractions to hidden local gems.

Have I missed your favourite Sunderland activity or most-loved location? Let me know in a comment or reach out on Instagram!

Best things to do in Sunderland, England

1. Walk to the lighthouse at Roker

The picture-perfect lighthouse has been an emblem of Sunderland’s coastline for more than 100 years.

When the tide is right, anyone can walk along the curved pier and see Roker from the bay.

If you’re keen to go inside the lighthouse itself, book a tour through Roker Pier Tours.

2. See a show at the Empire

Sunderland’s Empire Theatre dates back to 1907. Since its refurbishment in 2004, a number of popular shows have taken to the stage.

The upstairs bar is very chic and the interior of the theatre has retained all of its grandeur despite the modernisation project.

I recommend a pre-theatre drink at The Dun Cow, a cosy pub right next door. For pre-theatre dining, book a table at Aperitif. It’s featured high on my list of the best restaurants in Sunderland.

3. Try a pink slice

Every city worth its salt has its own must-try local delicacy, and Sunderland is no exception. The Mackem favourite sweet treat is the Pink Slice, which is comprised of shortbread sandwiched with jam, and covered in pink icing.

You can pick up a pink slice at one of Sunderland’s best indie coffee shops, Grinder. Bonus points if you’ve tried their Pink Slice Frappucino!

4. Spend a rainy day at Sunderland Winter Gardens and Museum

Looking for things to do in Sunderland when it’s raining? Look no further! The museum has some excellent permanent exhibitions including a ‘Time Machine’ section with some of the most intriguing exhibits from years gone by, a section dedicated to the city’s glass roots, and one that pays tribute to the area’s mining past.

There’s also a unique Winter Gardens which kids will love. Particularly if they’re a bit mad about dinosaurs…

The museum is open Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm and there’s no charge usually for admission, making it one of the best free things to do in Sunderland.

5. Visit Penshaw Monument

One of the best views of Sunderland can be found from Penshaw Monument, a 70-foot-high National Trust site.

Formally named the Earl of Durham’s Monument, this landmark can be seen from all over the city.

Did you know it was based on a famous temple in Athens, Greece?

There’s a fabulous tea room, butcher and a nursery at the foot of Penshaw Monument where you can warm up and do a spot of shopping before you leave. I highly recommend the self-serve milkshake machine!

6. Taste the best pizza in Sunderland

Wildfire Pizza’s residence at one of Sunderland’s best pubs, The Ship Isis, took the city by storm and now they’ve got their own restaurant in Deptford.

With a small menu of tasty pizzas and sides, this foodie experience is a must-try in Sunderland.

7. Have a drink in Sunderland’s most haunted pub

While we’re on the subject of pubs, I couldn’t leave this one out. The family-run Museum Vaults on Silksworth Row is something of a Sunderland institution despite its size.

It has all the makings of a proper British pub: a roaring coal fire, a pooch or two chilling in the corner and real ale on draft.

I’ve heard it’s also haunted, but I can’t find anything online that supports this. Does anyone know anything about spooky goings-on there?

8. Unwind at Barnes Park

Sunderland has some beautiful green spaces for those days when the sun blesses us with its presence, and Barnes Park is one of the best.

It’s large enough for a proper leg stretch and there’s a Victorian-style bandstand, bowling green and tennis courts as well as a cafe, the Coach House.

9. Sip a coffee purchased from a horse box

In the warmer months, this is one of the more unique places to go in Sunderland. The New Plough Tea Trailer is the cutest little horse box that has been converted into a mini tea shop. It can be found in Coxgreen and serves drinks and cakes.

Kids will love that there’s a play area and they can pet the horses, and adults will love the views over the River Wear.

Plus, they’ve now got an indoor seating area!

10. Eat, drink and be merry at STACK Seaburn

STACK is the highlight of Sunderland’s seafront. The shipping container park houses a variety of independent businesses selling food, drink and even beauty services.

There’s live entertainment and they even have heaters to keep you cosy during the wilder weather months, making it a year-round attraction for Sunderland residents.

11. Climb Tunstall Hills

Another spot with excellent views of Sunderland is Tunstall Hills, a nature reserve. The area is accessible from Leechmeere Road, via Tunstall Road to the northwest and National Cycle Route 1, Silksworth and Ryhope to the south.

You’ll need good walking boots in the wetter weather, as the grasslands can get muddy, but the views are worth it.

12. Explore the National Glass Center

One of Sunderland’s top tourist attractions is the National Glass Center. Free glass-blowing demonstrations, classes and exhibitions make it a good place to spend a few hours immersing yourself in Sunderland’s glassmaking history.

There’s also an on-site cafe called The Glass Yard, where you can enjoy views over the river with your meal.

If you’re looking for an alternative rainy day activity in Sunderland, this is it!

Check out my guide to where to eat in Durham.

13. Discover Herrington Country Park

Opposite Penshaw in Houghton-Le-Spring, you’ll find a sprawling country park with countless walks and cycle trails.

Herrington is one of Sunderland’s largest parks and it’s filled with sculptures linked to the area’s history.

You can feed the swans and ducks, make use of the skatepark area or grab a coffee from the cafe and get your steps in.

Love Lily has opened a second location in Herrington Country Park soon, and its a very welcome addition.

14. Shop, eat and drink at Mackie’s Corner

This newly revamped building carries a lot of historical significance in Sunderland. The imposing venue was built in the 1840s and has enjoyed pride of place in the city centre since.

These days, you’ll find independent businesses including a deli called Fat Unicorn, a cake shop at The Sweet Petite, and Sofia’s, a new brunch spot.

I think Mackies Corner is one of the most visually pleasing places in Sunderland!

15. Wander Sunderland’s Marina

The city’s background as an important port and shipbuilding hub is still evident on the banks of the River Wear, but amble over to the Marina and you’ll be rewarded with a tranquil area filled with yachts and fishing boats.

It’s a pleasant walk and usually much quieter than the adjacent seafront.

An Italian restaurant called Marina Vista overlooks the Marina, and kids will love stumbling upon ‘The Stone House’.

16. Rent an e-scooter to explore the coast

Sunderland has joined the masses of other destinations offering e-scooters to get around!

The bright orange GPS-enabled scooters are easy to spot, and they can travel at speeds up to 20mph, with a battery life of up to 60km.

I recommend hiring one to zoom along Sunderland’s stunning coastline, with stops for coffee and snacks while you take in the views.

17. Try your hand at water sports

Adventure Sunderland is a charitable trust located in Roker. They are an RYA (royal yachting association) accredited training centre and a British canoeing training centre with fully qualified staff, so you’re in safe hands.

You can rent equipment to go kayaking, surfing or stand-up paddle boarding. You might even be lucky enough to spot dolphins while you’re on the water…

18. Spend a day at the beach

One of the best things about living in Sunderland is that you’re never far from the beach! As an island girl, that’s very important to me. Start at Sunderland Marina and walk all the way through Roker and Seaburn to Whitburn.

You can walk along the beach itself with your toes in the sand, or stick to the promenade.

Just remember to take your litter home with you or bin it. Let’s keep our city’s beaches pristine please!

19. Fit in a yoga class

Sunderland’s yoga hub, Wellness Space, is settled into its new location and they’re still offering their lovely mix of vinyasa, rocket and yin yang classes.

In the warmer months, they even run classes on the beach, some of which you can combine with a SUP session.

Wellness Space also run incredible yoga retreats. I did one in North Yorkshire that I absolutely loved. You can find out more on their website.

20. Hang out at Sheepfolds Stables

Sunderland’s newest food, drink and leisure venue, Sheepfolds Stables is located in Grade II listed former stables next to the Stadium of Light and on the banks of the River Wear.

This upmarket destination is part of the Riverside Sunderland regeneration that’s breathing new life into our city.

Expect live entertainment in the courtyard and a specially brewed Vaux Brewery lager from Back of the Pit to wash down a couple of slices from I Scream For Pizza.

Other vendors include Mother Mercy’s cocktail cabin, coffee and donut specialists Up North and restaurants The Calabash Tree, Ember and Vitos Osteria.

21. See Sunderland shine at the Festival of Light

Another of Sunderland’s much-loved annual events is the Festival Light, which takes place in Roker Park towards the end of the year. The event is ticketed and kids in particular love the magic of the dazzling displays.

22. Wander in Mowbray Park

Hidden in Sunderland’s city center, there’s an expanse of green space that might take you by surprise. The serene Mowbray Park has a pond with ducks you can feed, a bandstand and a play park. See if you can find the magic doorway!

23. Visit the fans museum

Another indoor place to visit in Sunderland, the Fans Museum has a huge collection of football memorabilia.

It’s worth checking opening times on their website as they’re not open all the time, but they do try to accommodate anyone who has travelled to visit Sunderland from overseas if possible.

24. Burn some energy at the climbing wall

Sunderland Wall in Pallion Quay is a great facility if you’re looking for a fun activity in Sunderland. Offering coaching, courses and kids’ parties and classes, it’s one of the largest indoor climbing facilities in the UK.

Keep it in your back pocket for when you need an active thing to do in Sunderland when it rains!

25. Visit Hylton Castle

Did you know that Sunderland has an English Heritage site? Hylton Castle is a distinctive building that dates back to before 1400. You can book a guided tour on their website, or visit the tearoom.

26. Get creative at Arts Centre Washington

There’s loads on at Washington’s Arts Centre if you’re at a loose end. You can keep up to date with their upcoming events on their website.

Expect activities like ‘Drink and Draw’ life drawing sessions, free art sessions for young people, theatre, exhibitions and more.

27. Catch a show at The Fire Station

The Fire Station is an 18 million pound live music and performance venue in Sunderland that can host up to 800 people.

As well as an auditorium, it has bars, a restaurant, dance and creative writing studios and the Parade Ground, a 600-capacity outdoor performance space with its own stage and bar.

The former working Fire Station puts on up to 300 events a year – check out what’s on at their website.

28. Go to the Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art

Another cultural attraction in Sunderland, the Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art is open 10am to 5pm inside the National Glass Centre. Admission is free and there are a number of awe-inspiring collections.

You can check what’s on at the gallery here.

29. Shop sustainably at The Sunshine Co-operative

If you’re trying to live a more eco-friendly existence, this little gem in Sunniside is a must-visit.

Take your own refillable bottles along and stock up on all your sustainable essentials, from pantry staples to cleaning products. You can also pick up fresh, organic local fruit and vegetables.

As much food as possible is sourced within a 30-mile radius of Sunderland city centre (they even have their own little garden out the back), so you’re truly supporting the local economy when you choose to shop here.

30. See the Stadium of Light

No list of things to do in Sunderland would be complete without mentioning the local football team. Sunderland fans’ dedication to the team has even made it to Netflix!

A game at the Stadium is a Sunderland must-do, but if you’re not into football you can also experience one of the many live events taking place there throughout the year. I saw Spice Girls there a while back and it was brilliant.

31. Take a stroll in Roker Park

If you tire of the beach (not possible), head inland to the enchanting Roker Park.

Roker Park has a playground with a miniature train ride, a boating lake and a Victorian bandstand. I recommend picking up some lunch from the nearby Cole Kitchen and enjoying it on one of the park benches.

32. Shop at Jacky White’s Market

Another Sunderland institution, Jacky White’s indoor market is housed in the Sunderland Bridges shopping centre. The market caters to all, selling everything from fresh produce to indoor decor, and cleaning products to upcycled gems.

The market is open from 9 am until 5 pm every day except Sundays.

33. Explore Souter Lighthouse and The Leas

Sitting high on the windswept clifftops, Souter Lighthouse is a National Trust site on Sunderland’s coast that has its own coffee shop and a secondhand bookshop. You can visit to learn about life as a lighthouse keeper and explore the Local Nature Reserve.

The surrounding area made up of reclaimed colliery land is popular among runners and cyclists. I recommend packing a picnic and claiming your spot on the grass in the summer months.

34. Ryhope Engine Museum

Still looking for indoor activities in Sunderland? Located in Ryhope Pumping Station, the Engine Museum is an interesting place to visit in Sunderland.

The Grade II listed building is a historical point of interest and the working engines are kept in working order for visitors to see.

Find out more on the Facebook page.

35. Hit the slopes at Silksworth Sport Complex

Want to learn to ski but can’t afford the trip to Val d’Isère? Recreate the ski resort vibes in Silksworth! With three ski slopes including a 160mmain slope and two nursery ski slopes, the Sport Complex is the only place to ski in North East England.

Find out more here.

36. See the new pit pony sculpture in Keel Square

As part of the ongoing reinvigoration of Sunderland city center, Keel Square has had a facelift. One of the new additions is the pit pony sculpture.

There’s also an installation that celebrates the city’s maritime past and fountains that you’ll often find kids playing in during the summer months.

In the winter, an ice rink takes over the square and there’s a host of other events taking place here throughout the year.

37. Follow St Peter’s Sculpture Trail

This treasure hunt style Sunderland activity will teach little ones to appreciate the city’s history. Sculptor Colin Wilbourn and writer Chaz Brenchley collaborated with Sunderland’s residents to create a trail that will stimulate your mind during a leisurely walk.

My favourite is the series of three doors called ‘Passing Through’, which are meant to represent the past, present and future.

38. Indulge at Love Lily

Love Lily is an absolute haven for anyone with a sweet tooth, myself included. The Instagram-friendly cafe, complete with candyfloss pink branding, serves delicious cooked breakfasts and the best selection of sweet treats in Sunderland.

My personal favourites are the white chocolate and raspberry cookies and milkshakes. Although I’m slowly but surely working my way through the menu!

Sunderland is determined to win the hearts of more than just its diehard residents, and I for one can’t wait to see what the city has in store for us.

There’s lots of exciting activity around the river at the moment, so I’ll do my best to keep this Sunderland guide as up-to-date as possible as more attractions are added to the destination.

In the meantime, comment on what you love about Sunderland below and share this with your followers on social media to keep them inspired!

Now tell me, how many of the best things to do in Sunderland can you say you’ve done?

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