Places to visit in Sunderland on a two day break

Start day one at Ruhe Coffee Shop, a Scandi-style café in the middle of Roker Park. With stylish interiors and Aussie style brunch on the menu, it’s the kind of place that will set your trip off on the right foot. Alternatively, take your coffee to-go and wander around the boating lake in Roker Park.  

Soak up the sea air with strolls along the twin beaches of Roker and Seaburn. These Blue Flag beaches have been a staple for holiday-goers for hundreds of years, meaning there’s no shortage of seafront stores and cafes to stop at. 

Located right on the banks of the River Wear, the National Glass Centre is a hub for discovering Sunderland’s industrial heritage and creative past. If you’re lucky you might get to see the glassblowing in action in one of the live demonstrations - plus there are also regular sessions where you can have a go yourself! Afterwards pop next door to the Northern Gallery of Contemporary Art to see the latest works from up-and-coming local artists and creatives. 

Head to the city centre to refuel with some street food. Whether it’s sizzling halloumi wraps, loaded fries or warming curries, Sunderland’s food scene is growing fast with stalls popping up around Keel Square and High Street West. Every 4th Saturday of the month you’ll find the Sunniside Food Market, or stop by the STACK Seaburn food and drink hub if you're heading back toward the coast. 

Continue your cultural fix in the heart of the city. Home to everything from Wallace the Lion to LS Lowry paintings, Sunderland Museum captures the city’s industrial, social, and artistic history. Don’t miss the Winter Gardens, an indoor tropical oasis with over 2,000 plants, set beneath a dramatic glass rotunda. 

Cap off the day with dinner at The Seaburn Inn. Overlooking the beach, this modern inn serves up hearty classics, seafood dishes and a great pint selection, all paired with front row seats to a sea view sunset. Book ahead to bag a window seat or outdoor table. 

Turns out you don’t need to get on a plane to visit Greece, just head to Penshaw Monument instead! Inspired by the Temple of Hephaestus in Athens, this striking 19th-century monument sits atop a hill in the middle of a National Trust site. Hike to the summit and soak up sweeping views over Wearside and beyond.  

Afterward all that walking you’ll likely have worked up an appetite so make your way to Angelo’s in East Rainton for lunch. This charming family-owned Italian restaurant is loved for its big bowls of pasta, woodfired pizzas, and intimate vibes. Expect generous portions, a great wine list, and a menu packed with flavourful Italian favourites. 

After lunch, swing by Hylton Castle, a hidden gem undergoing a remarkable restoration. With new learning spaces and interactive exhibits, this medieval landmark now tells the story of the area’s knights, kings and community. Guided tours offer access to areas once off-limits. 

End the day with a tranquil stop at Washington Old Hall. This charming manor house was once home to the ancestors of George Washington and blends Jacobean interiors with lovely formal gardens. Managed by the National Trust, it’s a quiet, reflective place to soak up some Anglo-American history.