Things to do with kids in Sunderland

On the north-east coast of England, Sunderland sits at the mouth of the River Wear and is home to Blue Flag beaches, beautiful countryside and city culture.

If you’re looking for things to do with kids in Sunderland, you won’t be disappointed: there's lots going on for families, from baby activities such as swimming and sensory sessions to outdoor pursuits for active children.

The city is home to the Stadium of Light where Sunderland FC plays, and a behind-the-scenes tour is a must for football fans.

To explore the history of the area, visit Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens: a collection by the artist LS Lowry, who spent time in the city, is on display here.

The National Glass Centre is also well worth a visit to uncover Sunderland’s glassmaking heritage and try your hand at blowing glass.

The area boasts some stunning green spaces, including Mowbray Park, one of the oldest parks in the North-East, and Herrington Country Park, where you’ll find family activities like skateboarding, boating and an adventure play area.

If you're planning your child's next birthday celebration in Sunderland, we're here to help with our guide to everything you need for hosting kids' parties. Whether you're looking for a hall to hire, an entertainer to keep the kids under control, or an all-inclusive party package, our directory is the place to start.

There are also stunning beaches on the doorstep - both Roker and Seaburn are popular with families - and some great car boot sales where you can offload your unwanted stuff or browse for second-hand bargains.