Sunderland guide
Come to Sunderland and discover what the city and seaside have to offer.
A city full of hidden gems
Uncover some of Tyne & Wear's best-kept secrets.
Looking for a day out in the North East? There are loads of interesting places to visit in Sunderland. The city boasts museums and galleries for the culture vultures, a wealth of green spaces, and local heritage sites for history buffs.
But don't take our word for it – come and see for yourself. There really is something for everyone.
Need a car for your trip to Sunderland? Take a look at our
rental cars or speak to our friendly local experts at
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Things to do in Sunderland
Arts and culture
Discover two of the city's most cherished cultural treasures.
Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art
A ten-minute walk from St Peter's station, the Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art boasts a packed diary of exhibitions and events. Based inside the National Glass Centre, it features both local and international talent, from photography and film to video and 21st-century media.
Sunderland Empire Theatre
Showing everything from West End productions to drama, comedy and musicals, Sunderland Empire is the biggest theatre in the North East. Built in 1907, it's had a colourful history, hosting everyone from Charlie Chaplin to The Beatles.
History and heritage
Unlock the city's fascinating industrial past.
Want to learn more about Sunderland's industrial heritage? Take a trip to Hetton Colliery Railway or Bowes Railway.
Venture a little way out of the city and visit Ryhope Engines Museum, based in a disused Victorian pumping station. It houses two massive engines – a fascinating glimpse into Tyne and Wear's industrial past.
Museums and galleries
Fun and learning for all the family.
National Glass Centre
The National Glass Centre is the ideal destination for a fun, informative day out. Check out its exhibitions, watch a free glass-making demonstration or enjoy a spot of lunch in the Glass Yard, a cafe with gorgeous riverside views.
North East Land Sea and Air Museums
NELSAM showcases a collection of military aircraft. It houses more than 30 vehicles, including a Cold War-era Avro Vulcan B2 Bomber. The building itself is of historical interest, as it's built on the site of the former RAF Usworth/Sunderland airport. A great spot for military buffs and interested amateurs alike.
Sunderland Museum, Library and Winter Gardens
In the heart of the city centre, Sunderland Museum, Library and Winter Gardens is a cabinet of curiosities for all the family. It features everything from artefacts from the city's shipbuilding past to local antiquities – from the first Nissan built at Sunderland's Nissan plant to Wallace the Lion, once part of a 19th-century touring animal show.
Ten fun things to do in Sunderland on a budget
You don't need to splash out to have a great time in Sunderland. There are plenty of free-entry attractions – from nearby beaches to churches and museums. Here are ten of the best…
- Roker and Seaburn Beaches
- National Glass Centre
- Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens
- St Peter's Church
- Roker Park Conservation Area
- Hylton Castle
- Barnes Park
- Mowbray Park
- Keel Square
- St Peter's Sculpture Trail
Places to eat in Sunderland
Sunderland restaurants and cafes
Explore the wide range of eateries that Sunderland has to offer.
A trip to Sunderland just wouldn't be the same without checking out some of its restaurants, bars and cafes. Whether you're a gourmand looking for a night to remember or simply want some grub on the go, there are plenty of spots to choose from.
Five of the best places to eat and drink
Angelo's Ristorante
48 West Sunniside, SR1 1BA
Enjoy a warm Sunderland welcome at Angelo's Ristorante. Chef Aniello and his team serve "classic Italian dishes with a modern twist" that bring Campania and the Amalfi Coast to England's North East.
The Mad Hatter
113 Sea Road, SR6 9EQ
A quirky caff that serves great-value breakfasts, hearty afternoon tea and more. Known in the area for its friendly service and excellent gluten-free fare, it's a great spot to grab some homely grub.
Enfes
3 Derwent St, SR1 3NT
Looking for fine Turkish cuisine in Sunderland? Enfes should be your first port of call. Choose from a selection of hot and cold Turkish meze, kebabs, slow-cooked lamb and more.
Yuvraaj Restaurant
6-7 Douro Ter, SR2 7DX
Located in a converted Victorian house, Yuvraaj serves Indian cuisine that combines Bangladeshi and Western styles. Expect classic Indian dishes alongside Yuvraaj specialities.
The Manor Bar
In the mood for a cocktail? The Manor Bar is the place for you – a highlight of the city centre with a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
Places to stay in Sunderland
Looking for a place to lay your head in Sunderland? We've got you covered.
Hotels in Sunderland
Whether you want five-star service or a budget bed, Sunderland has options to suit you.
As well as familiar chains like Travelodge, Hilton and Premier Inn, Sunderland offers a range of fantastic hotels and B&Bs.
Visiting the seaside? The Roker Hotel at Roker and Lemonfield Hotel at Seaburn are the places to go for sea views and sea air.
Grand Hotel Sunderland also has splendid sea-front views as well as roomy rooms and an indoor swimming pool.
Other options include Victoria Gardens (not far from the Stadium of Light), Mayfield Hotel and the Boars Head Boutique Hotel.
Airbnbs
Treat yourself to a little local atmosphere.
Want to experience the city from a local's perspective? There are Airbnbs all across Sunderland – from individual rooms to full-blown guest houses.
New properties pop up all the time, so have a browse and see what you can find. Whether you want a place for yourself or a budget room, an Airbnb could be just the ticket.
Did you know…?
Did you know that Lewis Carroll of Alice in Wonderland fame was a regular visitor to Wearside?
He wrote most of his fantastical poem "Jabberwocky" at Whitburn, just a few miles up the road – and parts of his Alice stories are said to be inspired by Hylton Castle and Backhouse Park.
Keen Alice-ologists can take a trip to Whitburn's local library, where there's a statue of the great author.
Sunderland on canvas
The Wear has inspired some great art…
L.S. Lowry was born in Salford – but many of his seascapes and shipyard scenes were inspired by his trips to Wearside.
Art lovers should pop into the Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art – a 3,000-square-foot gallery located within the National Glass Museum. It's free entry and packed to the gills with exciting contemporary art.
Looking for a rental car?
Whatever the reason for your visit, we can fix you up with a hire car from our branch right here in the city. Expect affordable rates, an extensive fleet and flexible hire.
- Affordable rates
- Extensive fleet
- Loads of local knowledge
Book online today – or call
(0191) 4888 700 to speak to one of our local experts.
Frequently asked questions
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What is Sunderland famous for?
Sunderland was the shipbuilding capital of the world for more than six centuries. You can learn about the important role it played at Sunderland Maritime Heritage on Church Street East.
Notable celebrities from Sunderland include Emeli Sandé, Bryan Ferry, Lauren Laverne and the Venerable Bede.
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What county is Sunderland in?
Sunderland is in Tyne and Wear, which borders Northumberland to the north and Country Durham to the south.
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Is Sunderland worth visiting?
Absolutely! There's plenty to see and do and it's a great base for exploring the area.
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