Things to Do in Sunderland
15 attractions and days out
Indoor and Soft Play Areas
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.
Cinemas and Theatres
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.
Parks and Playgrounds
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.
Go Karting and Driving
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.
Laser Tag
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.
Museums and Art Galleries
National Glass Centre
Discover the mesmerising art of glassmaking at this fascinating centre on Liberty Way, featuring live demonstrations and creative exhibitions. Enjoy lunch at the onsite restaurant with baby changing facilities available.
Ten Pin 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.
National Parks
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.
Swimming Pools and 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.
Sports Centres
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.
Swimming Pools and 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.
Museums and Art 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.
Tours and River Cruises
Sunderland Stadium of Light Tour
Explore behind the scenes at this iconic football venue with a guided stadium tour, complete with parking, dining options and full accessibility for wheelchair users.
Climbing
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.
Tourist 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.
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