Discover Sunderland's Charms: A Day Trip Guide

Explore the wonders of Sunderland, where history meets modernity.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Sunderland, visitors can enjoy the historic charm of this coastal city, including the charming Victorian architecture of the city center. A must-visit attraction for tourists are the National Glass Centre, where visitors can learn about the art of glassmaking and watch skilled craftsmen at work. For those who love the outdoors, a visit to Roker Beach offers a long stretch of shoreline, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the North Sea.

Day trip plan

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Day

Experience the Charms of Sunderland

  • Start your day at the beautiful Mowbray Park, known for its impressive sculptures, ponds, and stunning flowers.
  • Take a walk to The Sunderland Museum to soak in the city's rich history and delve into its exhibits that showcase its seafaring past.
  • Relax with a cup of tea at The Biscuit Tin Cafe, a quaint and cozy spot that serves unique blends of tea, coffee and homemade cakes.
  • Enjoy fine dining at The Poetic License, a gastropub that offers unique concoctions inspired by the North East coastline.
  • Take in a show at the Sunderland Empire theatre or see a movie at The Empire Cinema.
  • Finish off your day with a pint of beer and live music at The Dun Cow pub, a local favourite renowned for its lively atmosphere.
  • Sunderland may seem like a small city, but it has an abundance of character and charm that will make your day trip here a memorable one. From stunning parks and museums to gourmet food and pubs, there's something for everyone in this friendly city. Come and discover Sunderland's unique character for yourself.

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

Discovering Sunderland: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip

A visit to Sunderland, UK on a limited budget can still offer a rich experience. Explore Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, the National Glass Centre, and Roker Beach for free. Affordable accommodation options include budget hotels like Travelodge Sunderland Central or Airbnb rentals.

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.

Discovering Sunderland's Hidden Gems

Sunderland, located in northeast England, offers a charming mix of industrial heritage and thriving cultural scene perfect for budget-minded travelers. Spend the day exploring the coastline or hiking in one of the nearby parks before catching a free exhibition or performance at the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens. End the evening with a pint at one of the city's many pubs or cozy up in an affordable B&B.

A Fun-Filled Weekend in Sunderland, UK

As a tourist to Sunderland, United Kingdom, visitors can explore the city's rich maritime history through various museums and historic shipyards. Nature lovers can visit the stunning Herrington Country Park, which offers vast green landscapes to explore. The city also boasts several contemporary art galleries and theaters for those interested in cultural exploration.