Sunderland Time Travel: A 2-Day Family Adventure
Experience family fun and adventure in Sunderland, the vibrant heart of the United Kingdom!
19 July 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
Sunderland, located in the northeast of England, offers a wonderful family-friendly trip with its captivating coastline, historic sites, and exciting attractions. Take a stroll along the beautiful beaches such as Roker and Seaburn, where kids can build sandcastles and indulge in various water sports. Explore the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, perfect for educational experiences, and don't forget to visit the Hylton Castle, a medieval gem that will transport you back in time.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Start your day at the quirky Roker Park Mini Golf for a lively round of family-friendly competition.
- Indulge in a delicious lunch at The Scullery, a vibrant cafe known for their scrumptious homemade pies and hearty British fare.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Sunderland Riverside, admiring the stunning views and watching the boats sail by.
- Get your adrenaline pumping at Gravity Force Sunderland, a trampoline park that promises tons of fun for both kids and adults.
- Treat yourself to a mouthwatering dinner at Angelo's Ristorante, a family-friendly Italian eatery boasting authentic dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.
- End the day with a relaxing movie night at Empire Cinema Sunderland, a state-of-the-art cinema showcasing the latest blockbusters.
- Kickstart your day with a visit to Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, where you'll find a treasure trove of fascinating artifacts and beautiful botanical displays.
- Enjoy a delightful lunch at Holmeside Coffee, a charming café that offers a tempting array of sandwiches, pastries, and specialty coffees.
- Immerse yourself in history with a trip to the Hylton Castle, a unique medieval fortress surrounded by enchanting gardens.
- Unleash your inner detective at WWT Washington Wetland Centre, participating in their thrilling Spy Mission Trail that will keep the whole family entertained.
- Experience the thrill of indoor rock climbing at Climb Sunderland, a fantastic activity for all ages and skill levels.
- Savor a delectable dinner at Poetic License Bar & Kitchen, known for its extraordinary gin cocktails and remarkable modern British cuisine.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Sunderland by plane is to fly into Newcastle International Airport and then take a taxi or the Metro system to Sunderland. There are regular flights to Newcastle from major UK cities as well as international destinations.
Car
Sunderland is easily accessible by car via the A1(M) motorway, which connects to major UK cities such as London, Edinburgh, and Manchester. There are several car parks in the city centre, as well as on-street parking with time limits.
Train
Sunderland has a mainline train station which is serviced by direct trains from major UK cities such as London, Edinburgh, and Manchester. The station is located in the city centre and is a short walk from most hotels and attractions.
Boat
Sunderland is located on the coast of the North Sea and has a small marina, however there are no regular ferry services to the city. The closest international ferry port is in Newcastle, which is accessible by bus, train or taxi.
Bus
There are several bus services that run to Sunderland, including National Express and Megabus. The bus station is located near the city centre and is a short walk from most hotels and attractions.