4 Days of Fun: Budget Trip to Sunderland

Discover the charm of Sunderland without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Sunderland on a limited budget can still offer plenty of options for exploring this vibrant city. Visitors can stroll along the scenic Roker Beach or explore Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens for free. The city also offers affordable accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to hostels, providing an affordable option for a memorable trip.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Sunderland

  • Check into the Premier Inn Sunderland City Centre hotel, a budget-friendly option offering clean and comfortable rooms.
  • Visit the National Glass Centre, which showcases Sunderland's glass-making heritage and offers interactive displays and workshops.
  • Stroll along the Sunderland Marina, where you can admire the yachts and boats and sit down for a coffee or ice cream at one of the cafes.
  • Have dinner at the Italian Kitchen, a popular restaurant serving delicious Italian dishes like pizza, pasta, and risotto.
  • Catch a movie at the Empire Cinemas Sunderland, which shows the latest releases in a modern and spacious venue.
Day 2

Exploring Sunderland's Parks

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café 1851, a cozy café serving homemade cakes, sandwiches, and breakfast dishes.
  • Visit Herrington Country Park, a large nature reserve with woodlands, ponds, and a lake, perfect for a hike or a picnic.
  • Head to Roker Park, a beautiful Victorian park with tree-lined paths, flower beds, and a boating lake.
  • Grab lunch at the Roker Hotel, a grand old building overlooking the sea, with a restaurant serving classic British cuisine.
  • Walk to the nearby beaches, Roker Beach and Seaburn Beach, where you can enjoy a stroll, build a sandcastle, or watch the sunset.
Day 3

Discovering Sunderland's Heritage

  • Start your day with a visit to the Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, which houses a collection of art, history, and natural history exhibits, as well as a tropical greenhouse.
  • Walk to the nearby Monkwearmouth Station Museum, which displays the history of Sunderland's railway heritage.
  • Go to St. Peter's Church, a historic church with Anglo-Saxon origins and a tower offering views of the city.
  • Have lunch at the Peacock, a traditional pub serving pub grub and real ales, with a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.
  • In the afternoon, take a tour of the Fulwell Mill, a restored windmill that used to produce flour.
Day 4

Shopping and Entertainment

  • Start your day with a breakfast at the Funky Indian, a modern Indian restaurant offering tasty breakfast dishes like masala omelettes and parathas.
  • Go to the Bridges Shopping Centre, Sunderland's main shopping destination with over 90 stores and restaurants.
  • Check out the Sunderland Empire Theatre, a historic theatre that hosts musicals, plays, and comedy acts throughout the year.
  • Grab lunch at The Good Apple Café, a vegetarian and vegan café with a selection of healthy and delicious dishes.
  • Finish your day with a visit to the Gala Bingo Sunderland, a bingo hall with electronic and traditional bingo games and a lively atmosphere.

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.

More travel plans

Sunderland Time Travel: A 2-Day Family Adventure

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.

Five Days of Fun: Sunderland on a Budget

"Explore the charms of Sunderland on a budget-friendly trip with plenty of options for cheap eats, free museums, and scenic walks along the coastline. Discover the city's rich industrial heritage at the Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, take a stroll along Roker and Seaburn beaches, and hop on a ferry to the nearby National Glass Centre. Alternatively, head to Hetton Lyons Country Park for a peaceful hike through stunning woodlands and grasslands."

Escape on a Romantic Weekend in Sunderland

Sunderland is a charming city in the northeast of England with a rich history and stunning coastal views. Perfect for a romantic getaway, couples can explore the city's museums and galleries, take romantic walks along Seaburn beach, or enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the many fine dining establishments. From strolls through picturesque parks to cultural experiences and relaxing spa treatments, a trip to Sunderland is the ultimate romantic escape.

A Romantic Escape to Sunderland for Couples

Sunderland, located in the north-east of England, is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. Known for its stunning coastlines, breathtaking nature reserves, and rich history, Sunderland offers plenty of picturesque spots for couples to unwind and enjoy each other's company. From exploring the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens to taking a romantic stroll around the many parks, Sunderland is the perfect place for a couple's retreat.