Things to Do in Sunderland

⭐ 4.4

Cinema & Theatre

Empire Cinema Sunderland

Catch the latest blockbusters in luxurious comfort at this modern Sunniside cinema, complete with onsite parking, wheelchair access and a tempting selection of movie snacks to enjoy during the show.

⭐ 4.5

Laser Tag Arenas

Laser Quest Sunderland

Battle it out in this action-packed laser tag arena on John Street, where teams navigate multi-level zones for an adrenaline-fueled gaming experience perfect for older children and teens.

⭐ 4.5

Museums & Galleries

Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens

Discover tropical plants flourishing beneath Victorian glass alongside fascinating local heritage displays, including an unrivalled pottery collection celebrating Sunderland's industrial past.

⭐ 4.0

Swimming & Leisure Centres

Sunderland Aquatic Centre

This modern facility at Stadium Park features heated pools, diving boards and a dedicated teaching area, with swimming lessons and activities suitable for all the family.

⭐ 4.7

Climbing & Bouldering

Sunderland Wall

Scale indoor climbing routes at this Pallion Quay venue where you can pack a picnic or grab food from the onsite restaurant between bouldering sessions.

⭐ 4.4

National Parks & Reserves

Roker Park

A traditional seaside park offering green spaces and an onsite restaurant, though families should note limited facilities including no toilets or baby changing areas, and picnics aren't permitted.

⭐ 4.9

Sightseeing & Attractions

The Strategy Sunderland

This Sunderland-based attraction offers convenient onsite parking and toilet facilities, though visitors should note limited accessibility and no food options or baby-changing amenities available.

⭐ 4.2

Swimming & Leisure Centres

Silksworth Community Pool, Tennis & Wellness Centre

This modern leisure facility offers swimming, tennis courts and various indoor sports activities for all the family, complete with onsite parking, wheelchair access and a restaurant.

⭐ 4.4

Sports Facilities

Silksworth Sports Complex & Ski Slope

This family-friendly sports hub offers skiing and snowboarding on real slopes, plus football pitches and fishing lakes, with full facilities including wheelchair access and picnic areas.

⭐ 4.3

Bowling Alleys

Riverside Bowling

Strike up family fun at this fully accessible bowling venue featuring an onsite restaurant, ample parking, and facilities for all ages including baby changing areas.

⭐ 4.9

Indoor Soft Play

Castledown Fun Factory

This vibrant Sunderland play centre next to a family pub offers dedicated toddler areas and exciting play zones, with onsite dining, picnic-friendly policies, and full accessibility including parking and baby facilities.

⭐ 5.0 3.9 mi away

Pottery & Ceramic Painting

Rosebud Ceramics

Paint your own pottery masterpiece at this wheelchair-accessible ceramics studio, where snacks and refreshments keep creativity flowing in a welcoming family-friendly setting.

⭐ 4.7

Parks & Play Areas

Herrington Country Park

This spacious Penshaw park delights families with scenic walking and cycling routes, striking outdoor art installations and regular events, plus pushchair-friendly paths and a warm welcome for dogs.

⭐ 4.7 4.1 mi away

Zoos & Animal Parks

WWT Washington Wetland Centre

Get close to nature at this peaceful wildlife haven where little ones can feed waterfowl by hand, explore wetland habitats and spot native species across pushchair-friendly trails and scenic reserves.

⭐ 3.9 4.2 mi away

Indoor Soft Play

Fun Shack Seaham

Located on Seaham Grange Industrial Estate, this indoor play venue offers a family-friendly space with accessible facilities, onsite parking, and a restaurant serving meals and snacks.

⭐ 4.7 4.2 mi away

Indoor Soft Play

Wacky Warehouse - Story Book

Let kids burn energy across multiple levels of climbing frames, bouncy zones and colourful obstacles at this Boldon soft play centre. Onsite restaurant, facilities and free parking make it ideal for stress-free family fun.

⭐ 4.5 4.3 mi away

Farm Parks

Down at the Farm

Meet farm animals from Britain and beyond at this welcoming Houghton-le-Spring attraction, where families can discover countryside life with wheelchair access, picnic areas and dining options.

⭐ 4.7

Go Karting & Driving Experiences

Karting North East

Experience high-speed thrills on one of Britain's biggest go-kart tracks, plus tackle exciting 4x4 off-road driving challenges at this action-packed Sunderland motorsport venue.

⭐ 4.5 4.5 mi away

Horse Riding

Penshaw Equestrian Centre

Located at Penshaw Hill Farm, this village equestrian centre offers riding activities alongside refreshments from its onsite restaurant. Note that facilities are limited, with no toilets or wheelchair access available.

⭐ 4.8 4.5 mi away

Horse Riding

North Lizard Riding School

Countryside riding centre on Lizard Lane offering equestrian experiences with convenient onsite parking, though visitors should note limited facilities are available at this location.