Where the River Wear enters the North Sea, Sunderland is a city that has found a new path after the decline of coalmining and shipbuilding. There are little reminders of the past here and there and the city’s once renowned glass trade is remembered as well with a riverside museum. A city to discover and so are the two beaches at Seaburn and Roker. Both beaches are long, wide and sandy, child-friendly with lifeguards on duty all summer long.
Discover how glassmaking has shaped Sunderland into the place it is today. The Centre is based on the banks of the River Wear and is devoted to contemporary glass art, design and architecture, as well as showcasing historical exhibitions.
One of the largest parks in Sunderland, this popular destination is open all year round. Its tranquil scenery offers a refuge from busy city life, while its array of activities includes Nordic walking, model boating, and sculpture trails that celebrate the heritage of the area.
The museum houses some of Sunderland’s most important treasures and the Winter Gardens is home to several fascinating historic exhibits, as well as a striking contemporary greenhouse filled with a botanical collection of over 2,000 plants and trees from around the world.
Visit the first lighthouse in the world built to be powered by electricity. From the top chamber, take in fantastic views across the North Sea and then explore The Leas – a fantastic landscape of limestone cliffs and coastal grassland, with coastal birds to spot year-round.
Get a sense of the true spirit and history of Sunderland from one of its oldest buildings. It was built in 674AD by Benedict Biscop (Patron Saint of Sunderland), a pioneering monk who was given a grant of land by the Northumbrian King, Egfrith.
Situated on the outskirts of Sunderland, you can discover a range of land transport vehicles, detailed dioramas and magnificent aircraft. From training planes to a cold war Avro Vulcan B2 Bomber, there’s lots to see and it’s a great day out for the whole family.