Fun Days Out in Sunderland and Whitburn for all the Family
Foodie favourites and family fun means a day out in this city-by-the-sea never disappoints
It doesn’t matter whether you’re there for a relaxing day out simply watching the waves crash over Roker Lighthouse and pier, or whether your adventurous streak takes over, there’s plenty to please everyone along Sunderland’s coast. While exploring Roker, don’t miss the abundant cafés and restaurants before (or after) letting the little ones burn off some steam in Roker Park. Its play areas, lake and miniature steam train are sure to keep them busy. If you’re looking for something a little more hair raising don’t miss Adventure Sunderland at Roker’s Marine Activity Centre where you can try something new or hone your skills – how does coasteering or paddleboarding sound? Meanwhile, culture vultures will love a look around the National Glass Centre (and you can even give glassblowing a go), or head to Sunderland’s Museum and Winter Gardens for four floors of galleries and exhibitions and lots of family-friendly events.
BASE CAMP
A must-stay on this length of the coast is The Seaburn Inn – a new addition to the seafront. This pub with rooms boasts delicious pub grub, an outdoor terrace perfect for summer supping, modern ensuite bedrooms and stunning views of the North Sea. Just a stone’s throw from the beach, The Lemonfield Hotel offers a range of tastefullyappointed rooms, with sea view rooms available. Or why not try The Roker Hotel (one of longest standing and most loved hotels in Sunderland)? You’re spoiled for choice with 43 ensuite rooms, all with their own unique character. Head downstairs to treat yourself to a night cap in the Poetic License bar.
Read more: Three Villages to Visit on the Northumberland Coast for a Perfect Day Out
PERFECT WEEKEND
A visit to the coast isn’t complete without fresh seafood – and you can get the best of the catch at Latimers Seafood in Whitburn. Meanwhile, Seaburn boasts STACK (a mustvisit now the Newcastle original has disappeared) and Prego, serving Italian-inspired food with a modern twist. The Salt House Kitchen is always a popular choice, whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, lunch or an evening meal. Your four-legged friends are welcome at Grannie Annie’s on the Marine Walk in Roker, where you can grab a pint or a sip a cocktail in the sun. On your summer strolls, stop by Cole Kitchen for a caffeine pit stop or a hearty sandwich. If you fancy a decadent sweet treat, Love Lily is the place to be. Last but not least, one to add to your list: new to Sunderland’s seafront, Tin of Sardines (which made headlines when it opened the world’s smallest gin bar in Durham) has just opened an outpost here with a collection of 200 types of gin.
