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Five Days of Fun: Sunderland on a Budget

Experience history and unique culture in Sunderland without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

"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."

Travel plan

• Check into the Seaburn Inn, a charming seaside hotel with cozy rooms and a bar area serving excellent local craft beers and ciders.
• Explore the beautiful beaches of Roker and Seaburn, with their bustling promenades and traditional Victorian architecture.
• Visit the National Glass Centre, a stunning museum showcasing the fascinating history and art of glassmaking in the region.
• Stop by The Ship Isis, a quirky pub located in a 19th-century former merchant ship, and enjoy a pint of real ale while taking in the views of the River Wear.

• Start your day with a hearty English breakfast at Belle Vue Cafe, a vintage-style diner serving generous portions of bacon, eggs and sausages.
• Head to the Sunderland Maritime Heritage Centre, a fascinating museum located in a former Victorian church, and learn about the city's proud seafaring past.
• Walk along the river to the North East Land, Sea and Air Museum, a unique collection of military and civilian aircraft, vehicles and artifacts.
• Enjoy lunch at Beamish Mary Inn, a cosy pub housed in an 18th-century farmhouse and serving traditional Geordie stotties (flatbread sandwiches).
• End your day with a pint of local beer at the Jailhouse Bar, a funky pub located in a former police station and decorated with quirky memorabilia.

• Grab a coffee and a pastry at the quirky Holmeside Coffee, a small independent cafe with a bohemian vibe and a great selection of vegan treats.
• Explore the beautiful Mowbray Park, a serene oasis in the heart of Sunderland with a duck pond, a Victorian bandstand and a cafe.
• Take a guided tour of St. Peter's Church, a hidden gem of Gothic architecture featuring stunning stained glass windows and a rich history.
• Have lunch at Fat Buddha, a hip Asian fusion restaurant with an eclectic menu and a buzzing atmosphere.
• Spend the afternoon at Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve, a peaceful woodland with scenic trails and a variety of wildlife.

• Start your day with a scenic drive to Souter Lighthouse and The Leas, a stunning coastal location with dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views.
• Walk along the charming seaside town of Whitburn, with its quaint cottages, pretty gardens and traditional pubs.
• Stop by the Marsden Grotto, a unique pub and restaurant carved into a cliff face, and enjoy a pint of beer while admiring the sea views.
• Have lunch at The Clifton, a historic hotel overlooking the beach and serving classic British dishes with a modern twist.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby South Shields, a vibrant town with a bustling marina, an amusement park and a lively market.

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at The Funky Indian, a hidden gem of an Indian restaurant with a funky decor and a great selection of curries and biryanis.
• Visit the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, a stunning museum with a vast collection of art and natural history exhibits.
• Take a walk along the picturesque Sunderland Harbour, with its colourful boats and charming cafes.
• Have a final pint at The Peacock, a traditional pub with a warm atmosphere and an extensive selection of cask ales.
• Bid farewell to Sunderland and promise to return soon.