Planning a short break or a stag & hen weekend in the North East? Sunderland is a fantastic choice. Here’s your complete guide on how to get here, where to stay, top things to do, local food spots, and some handy travel tips.
Getting to Sunderland
Whether you’re travelling from across the UK or arriving from abroad, Sunderland is easily accessible:
- By Train: Direct trains run from Newcastle, York, Leeds, and London. Sunderland station is right in the city centre.
- By Car: Convenient access from the A19 and A1(M), with city centre parking and hotel options with onsite parking.
- By Air: Fly into Newcastle Airport or Teesside International Airport. DM Airport Transfers offers reliable taxi and minibus services to Sunderland from both airports.
- By Coach: National Express and Megabus services operate routes into Sunderland’s Park Lane Interchange.
Where to Stay
There’s a wide range of accommodation options depending on your budget:
- Premier Inn Sunderland City Centre – Great value and location.
- Hilton Garden Inn Sunderland – Ideal for football fans near the Stadium of Light.
- Roker Hotel BW Premier Collection – Stunning coastal views and perfect for couples.
- Seaburn Inn – Perfect for families, beachfront and close to attractions.
- Budget & Group Options – Hostels, Airbnbs and guesthouses ideal for stag/hen groups.
Things to Do in Sunderland
🏖️ Beaches & Seafront
- Roker & Seaburn Beaches – Award-winning sandy beaches, perfect for a sunny walk or fish & chips.
- Roker Pier & Lighthouse – A picturesque stroll with dramatic sea views.
🏛️ Museums & Culture
- Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens – A Victorian gem with local history, art, and tropical plants.
- National Glass Centre – Watch glass blowing and learn about Sunderland’s industrial past.
- Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art – Cutting-edge exhibitions from UK and international artists.
⚽ Sport & Events
- Stadium of Light Tour – Explore the home of Sunderland A.F.C.
- Nightlife & Events – Vibrant bar scene around High Street West, perfect for stag/hen parties.
🎭 Entertainment & Family Fun
- Empire Theatre – Catch a show or musical.
- Funshack & Clip ‘n Climb – Ideal for kids and active groups.
Where to Eat & Drink
🍽️ Restaurants
- Six Pierpoint – Locally sourced modern British dishes.
- Port of Call – Steak, burgers, cocktails. Great for groups.
- The Funky Indian – Street food and small plates with a twist.
🍻 Pubs & Bars
- Ttonic & Gatsby – Classic Sunderland nightlife.
- The Engine Room – Great food, craft ales and live music.
- Independent – A local venue for live music and club nights.
Tips for Visiting Sunderland
- Dress for the weather – Coastal breezes can be strong even in summer.
- Use taxis for night travel – DM Airport Transfers provides safe group travel with 5, 6, 7 & 8 seater taxis and minibuses.
- Plan beach time – Tide times and weather can impact your plans, especially around Roker Pier.
- Ideal for Stag & Hen Dos – Affordable nightlife, big venues, and coastal activities make Sunderland a great alternative to Newcastle.
Travel with DM Airport Transfers
Whether you’re coming from Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham or flying into Newcastle/Teesside, DM Airport Transfers offers long-distance taxis, airport pickups, and executive minibuses to Sunderland. Book your journey stress-free with:
📧 info@dmairporttransfers.co.uk
📞 +44 7947 199830
🌐 dmairporttransfers.co.uk
