Things to do in Sunderland

Activities, attractions and tours

A green steel bridge over a river with a lock system, surrounded by grassy areas and a cityscape in the background.
A cable-stayed bridge over a calm river at sunset.
A beach with waves at sunset, a lighthouse, and buildings along the shore.
A nighttime cityscape with illuminated buildings, a bridge, and a river.
A rocky coastline with a cliff and a lighthouse in the distance.

Things to do

Countryside in Edinburgh

Hadrian's Wall, Roman Britain & Borders from Edinburgh

RM490
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Hadrian's Wall, Roman Britain & Borders from Edinburgh
Durham History Tour

Durham History Tour

RM97
per adult
Durham History Tour
3 Hour Walking Tour through Newcastle upon Tyne

3 Hour Walking Tour through Newcastle upon Tyne

RM162
per adult
3 Hour Walking Tour through Newcastle upon Tyne
1.5 Hour Explore Newcastle Walking Tour

1.5 Hour Explore Newcastle Walking Tour

RM130
per adult
1.5 Hour Explore Newcastle Walking Tour
Best of Newcastle Highlights Walking Tour

Best of Newcastle Highlights Walking Tour

RM108
per adult
Best of Newcastle Highlights Walking Tour
Newcastle: Half Day Paintballing Adventure

Newcastle: Half Day Paintballing Adventure

RM54
per adult
Newcastle: Half Day Paintballing Adventure
2 Hours Walking Tour in Newcastle Upon Tyne in Italian/English

2 Hours Walking Tour in Newcastle Upon Tyne in Italian/English

RM157
per adult
2 Hours Walking Tour in Newcastle Upon Tyne in Italian/English
Durham Cathedral built in 1093

Durham City Walking Tour

RM216
per adult
Durham City Walking Tour
Durham Full City Tour

Durham Full City Tour

RM124
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Durham Full City Tour
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What to do in Sunderland

Stay near popular Sunderland attractions

Whitburn Sands

9.8/10 (18 reviews)
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Whitburn Sands during your trip to Sunderland? Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
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Where to stay in Sunderland

Find the best Sunderland areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Sunderland
Learn more about Sunderland
A large green steel bridge with a curved design spanning over a river.

Sunderland City Centre

Well liked for its restaurants and museums, Sunderland City Centre is worth a visit. Check out the variety of things to see and do like Sunderland Empire and Mowbray Park, and jump on the metro at Park Lane Station to get around the city.

A sunset over a beach with a lighthouse in the distance.

Seaburn

Seaside views and restaurants are notable features of Seaburn. You might consider stopping by Whitburn Sands while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

A lighthouse by the sea with a boat in the distance.

Roker

Some popular features of Roker include its bars and seaside views. If you're in the mood to explore farther, Stadium of Light or Sunderland Empire are worth checking out in the surrounding nearby area.

A coastal scene with a lighthouse, waves crashing against the shore, and a stormy sky.

Ashbrooke

When in Ashbrooke, you can plan a visit to Sunderland Empire and Mowbray Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Fulwell

Fulwell might not have many top sights, but Stadium of Light and Sunderland Empire are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

A lighthouse amidst large waves crashing against the shore.

Seaham

A modern stadium with a glass dome, a river, and a bridge with a sign for the Rugby World Cup 2015.

Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Frequently asked questions

Is Sunderland worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Sunderland is explore Wet 'n' Wild Water Park. Check this top sight off your agenda, then experience more of this area's history and nature.
How do I spend a day in Sunderland?
Start your day with a visit to Wet 'n' Wild Water Park and Tynemouth Castle. Then, tour different parts of Sunderland for a quick bite and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Sunderland?
The top tourist attraction in Sunderland is Wet 'n' Wild Water Park, so be sure to put it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Sunderland?
You can easily tour top sights like North East Aircraft Museum, Whitburn Sands and Marsden Beach with a three-day break in Sunderland. On average, most travellers book three days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so linger longer and check out Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
Is Sunderland a walkable city?
That depends on what you plan to see and do in Sunderland. Several attractions, like Whitburn Sands, are accessible on foot. If you feel like a wander through one of Sunderland's cool neighbourhoods, Sunderland City Centre is 0.16 kilometres away from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in Sunderland with kids?
Planning what to do in Sunderland with kids has never been so simple. Whether you have little ones or teenagers, there are plenty of family-friendly tours and activities to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Sunderland for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or fan of nature, there are loads of things to do in Sunderland for adults including The Marsden Grotto and Doxford International Business Park.
Are there free things to do in Sunderland?
In Sunderland, Whitburn Sands is an unmissable spot for anyone wanting to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to discover the best free things to do in Sunderland.

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