You might’ve heard whispers about a low-key spot called Sunderland, tucked away on the Northeast coast of England. But don’t be fooled—this vibrant city is full of surprises, mixing history, culture, coastal beauty, and a warm community feel that makes it truly special.
Whether you’re into art, live music, football, or simply soaking in scenic views, Sunderland has something for everyone. The Empire Theatre is a local landmark and a must-visit for lovers of the stage—hosting everything from West End musicals to comedy nights and touring theatre productions. Just a short walk away, the Stadium of Light stands proud as the home of Sunderland AFC.
For a more relaxed evening, head to The Sheepfolds—a newly revitalised area by the River Wear, full of independent eateries, craft beer spots, and buzzing bars. Whether you’re after a casual drink, a bite to eat, or some live music, it’s the perfect place to unwind.
Sunderland also boasts natural beauty. Its stunning coastline offers long stretches of beach, dramatic cliffs, and peaceful promenades. Roker and Seaburn beaches are ideal for a morning walk, an afternoon picnic, or simply watching the waves roll in. Prefer two wheels? The city is well-connected by a network of cycling and walking paths that let you explore both urban and rural scenery with ease.
And it’s not just the coast—there’s green space everywhere. Mowbray Park, right in the city centre, is perfect for a relaxed afternoon, and nearby Herrington Country Park offers wide open spaces and views of the iconic Penshaw Monument.
With rich experiences and a relaxed pace, it’s the kind of place that rewards those who take the time to explore—and leaves a lasting impression.
Once a historic industrial site, The Sheepfolds has been transformed into one of Sunderland’s most exciting new destinations for food, drink, and live entertainment. Located just a short walk from the Stadium of Light and nestled beside the River Wear, this vibrant social hub blends the city’s proud heritage with a fresh, creative spirit.
Inside its beautifully restored brick buildings, you’ll find a dynamic mix of independent bars, street-food kitchens, artisan coffee spots, and creative workspaces, making it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re meeting friends, catching live music, or enjoying an evening out before a match, The Sheepfolds delivers a relaxed yet lively atmosphere.
A standout addition is PROPA!, the comfort food kitchen launched by TV chef and Hairy Biker Si King. Known for his love of hearty northern cooking, Si brings a menu full of flavour-packed pies—think steak & ale, chicken-ham-leek, and the Northeast favourite, panackelty—all served with creamy mash and rich gravy. It’s proper food done right, and it’s already earned a reputation as a must-try when visiting Sunderland.
Whether you’re warming up by the courtyard fire pits, enjoying live music under the lights, or tucking into one of Si King’s legendary pies, The Sheepfolds is a place that brings people together—and showcases the very best of Sunderland’s evolving food and culture scene.
Sheepfolds Stables
No visit to Sunderland is complete without a stop at the Stadium of Light—one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Overlooking the River Wear, this impressive venue is the proud home of Sunderland A.F.C., a club with a rich footballing heritage and a fiercely loyal fanbase.
Opened in 1997, the stadium was built on the site of the former Monkwearmouth Colliery, a nod to the city’s mining past. It’s more than just a football ground—it’s a symbol of Sunderland’s identity and resilience. With a capacity of over 49,000, it’s one of the largest stadiums in the UK outside the Premier League, and on matchdays, the atmosphere is electric.
But football is just one part of what the Stadium of Light has to offer. It’s also a premier events venue, regularly hosting major music concerts from global superstars like Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, and Pink. Whether you’re there to cheer on the Black Cats or sing along with your favourite artist, it’s a place where unforgettable memories are made.
Guided stadium tours are also available, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the dressing rooms, players’ tunnel, and pitch side views. It’s a great experience for sports fans and families alike.
Easily accessible by public transport and just a short walk from the city centre, the Stadium of Light isn’t just a sporting arena—it’s a cultural and community hub at the heart of Sunderland.
Step Back in Time in the North East
Just a short drive from Sunderland, Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, is one of the UK’s most remarkable open-air museums, offering visitors a captivating journey through the North East’s rich industrial and social history. Spread across 350 acres of beautiful countryside near Stanley, County Durham, Beamish recreates life in the region at different points in history—mainly the 1820s, early 1900s, 1940s, and 1950s—through meticulously restored and reconstructed buildings, streets, farms, and workplaces.
Visitors can wander through a recreated Victorian town complete with cobbled streets, a busy market, and a working sweet shop selling traditional candies. The Edwardian pit village shows the lives of coal miners and their families, with authentic homes, a school, a chapel, and even a pithead engine house. You can board a heritage tram or bus, watch blacksmiths forging metal, bakers preparing fresh bread, and join in workshops like butter-churning or printing. Seasonal events and live demonstrations bring the past to life, making history hands-on and engaging for all ages.
Beamish is more than a museum—it’s a fully immersive experience where costumed staff interact with visitors, creating a lively and authentic atmosphere. Ideal for families, school groups, and history enthusiasts, Beamish offers cafés, picnic areas, and play zones, making it an ideal destination for a full-day outing. Whether you’re fascinated by industrial heritage, rural life, or want to explore the North East’s past in a fun and interactive way, Beamish delivers an unforgettable experience.
Home
This wide, flat, sandy beach, backed by grass, lies just under a mile north of Sunderland City Beach. The sands here are generally kept clean, although occasionally the sea deposits seaweed here in stormy weather.
The beach is popular for bathing, as well as for sailing, surfing and for other watersports.
A promenade runs alongside the beach, and makes a good place to take a stroll, heading either northwards or south towards Roker, where there is a car park and small children’s play area. There are hotels, shops and plenty of places to eat on the other side of the road to the promenade, as well as a couple of places to stop for snacks along the promenade.
Vesta Tilley laid the foundation stone of what is now the Sunderland Empire on 29 September 1906 and took to the stage on 1 July 1907 to officially declare the theatre open. Masterminded by two of the contemporary heads of British theatre, Edward Moss and Osward Stoll, the Sunderland Empire Theatre has undergone many changes since it opened but remains the North East’s premier entertainment venue. www.atgtickets.com/venues/sunderland-empire/
