Luxury hotels in Sunderland: where to stay in style

The city of Sunderland has a lot going for it. A coastal location in England's northeast, complete with award-winning urban beaches. World-famous attractions, including the magnificent Stadium of Light and the fascinating National Glass Centre. A UK top-40 university and one of the largest indoor conference venues in the region.

Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, you can expect a warm welcome and a whole host of things to eat, see and do.

But we'll level with you: Sunderland is not known for luxury accommodation. Friendly locals, yes. A thriving cultural scene, yes. But hotel-wise, you won't find much to rival the Ritz.

What it does have, however, are top-class lodgings that easily earn their three- or four-star status. While they might lack an expensive luxury feel, they easily make up for it in character, cost and good old-fashioned, unpretentious comfort.

If that counts as a luxury hotel, Sunderland has dozens that fit the bill. But we're here to uncover the best of the best – starting with a bright, modern establishment on the Whitburn coast.

Please note that ratings are correct as of the time of writing (January 2025).

The Seaburn Inn

The Seaburn Inn is the only three-star hotel on our list. But don't be fooled by the middling rating. As far as guests are concerned, this is one of the very best hotels in Sunderland. It's so good, in fact, that they awarded it a "fabulous" 8.7 out of 10 on Booking.com.

It comes especially recommended if you're here for a seaside holiday. The hotel is perched on the seafront, a mere 50 metres from Seaburn Beach. This means easy access to local bars, restaurants and arcades – plus gorgeous sea views from your room (if you're lucky).

Reviewers also highlighted the quality of service, the cleanliness of the rooms and – above all – the tasty breakfasts. This is one fry-up that's worth pausing your diet for.

Roker Hotel

When a hotel lauds itself as "one of the longest standing and most loved hotels in Sunderland", you'd be forgiven for raising an eyebrow. "Says who?" you might ask.

However, we're pleased to report that the four-star AA-rated Roker Hotel lives up to this lofty description. For a start, it really is one of the longest-standing hotels in Sunderland. The Roker was built more than 170 years ago, back when its namesake resort town was just beginning to boom. Although it's been revamped over the years, the hotel retains much of its period charm.

As for the "most loved" claim – well, allow us to hand the mic to Booking.com reviewers. "Exceptional", says one. "Very enjoyable", quoth another. Yet more praised the seafront location, the friendly staff and – in one instance – the "great steak and ale pie".

The Lemonfield Hotel

The Lemonfield is a fine example of a now-rare breed: the truly independent guesthouse.

Yes, this is an establishment that plays by its own rules. And there are many rules. No pets. No children under 12. No stag or hen parties. No check-ins after midnight unless agreed in advance with the owners.

But don't be put off by the laundry list. According to guests, this is a real gem – hidden in plain sight just off the seafront between Roker Beach and Seaburn Beach.

The Lemonfield earns a stonking 4.8 stars on Google reviews. The food is delicious, they say, the rooms are comfortable, and the beds are as comfortable as they come.

But reviewers reserve the highest praise for the friendly, accommodating staff. Clearly, this is a team that cares about its guests and the quality of service it provides.

Seaham Hall