The Ultimate 3-Day Adventure in Sunderland

Explore the rich maritime history and stunning coastline of Sunderland.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Sunderland, one can explore the city's rich maritime heritage by visiting the National Glass Centre and Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens. The Sunderland Empire Theatre is a must-visit for theatre enthusiasts, while the Seaburn Beach and Roker Pier provide an opportunity to relax and enjoy scenic views. The city also boasts numerous restaurants, pubs and bars, offering a diverse range of cuisines and beverages.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Beaches and Brews

  • Check-in at the Travelodge in Sunderland City Centre, conveniently located near the train station and major attractions.
  • Head to Roker Beach for a stroll along the promenade and take in the stunning views of the North Sea.
  • Visit the quirky independent bar, The Peacock, for a pint of locally brewed beer and mingle with the friendly locals.
  • Try the delicious fish and chips from Colmans Seafood Temple, a family-owned business that has been serving up the best seafood in town since 1905.
  • Take in a show at the Sunderland Empire Theatre, a grand Edwardian venue that hosts a variety of productions throughout the year.
Day 2

Art and Architecture

  • Start the morning with breakfast at Fausto Coffee, a trendy café that serves up great coffee and homemade pastries.
  • Explore the Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art, a hidden gem that showcases innovative and thought-provoking exhibitions.
  • Visit St Peter's Church, one of the oldest and finest churches in Sunderland, and marvel at its stunning architecture and intricate stained glass windows.
  • Grab lunch at the quirky and colourful Hinnies, which serves hearty comfort food made with locally sourced ingredients.
  • Learn about the history of the city at the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, which houses a diverse collection of art, artefacts and natural history exhibits.
Day 3

Parks and Pubs

  • Spend the morning at Herrington Country Park, a beautiful green space that features lakes, woodlands and a boating lake.
  • Take a tour of the award-winning Wylam Brewery and sample some of their innovative craft beers.
  • Enjoy a traditional Sunday lunch at The Lambton Worm, a pub that serves up hearty food and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Take a scenic walk along the River Wear and discover the hidden gem that is Cox Green, a tranquil park that offers stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside.
  • End the evening with a drink at the quirky independent bar, Ttonic, which serves up an impressive range of gins and cocktails in a fun and eclectic setting.

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.

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