Set right on the mouth of the River Wear next to a beautiful coastline and surrounded by easily accessible countryside, Sunderland is a city with a difference – a modern, bustling centre that is balanced with a relaxing green environment, stunning coastal scenery and a refreshing attitude to life. Citypadz provide a number of apartments to rent in Sunderland, and are one of the premier Sunderland letting agents.
Shopping
The retail heart of the city is focused around The Bridges Shopping Centre, where over 100 top name high street stores jostle for position along the bright and airy walkways. New investment is bringing life back into the fine Victorian streets of the city centre, where independent shops and boutiques offer everything from designer labels to trendy interiors. Eye-catching pieces of jewellery, glassware and ceramics are also a Sunderland speciality, with craft and gift shops at the museums and galleries featuring the works of up and coming designer-makers.
Heritage and culture
The Sunniside Cultural Quarter in Sunderland city centre situated mid-way between the River Wear and the Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens is home to a host of top cultural Sunderland arts centres including the Northern Gallery for Contemporary Arts and The Place, a cutting edge new arts and business centre with art exhibitions.
On the northern banks of the River Wear you will find the spectacular Sunderland Stadium of Light football stadium, St Peter’s historic church, one of the oldest churches in Britain, and the National Glass Centre.
The city’s Empire Theatre is also the only theatre between Leeds and Edinburgh large enough to host major West End shows. Opened in 1907, it boasts splendid examples of Edwardian architecture.
Sports and leisure
Sunderland’s green spaces and magnificent coastline also make an ideal stage for a number of exhilarating outdoor festivals and events. From the adrenaline rush of the Red Arrows at the Sunderland International Airshow and the world’s best kite flyers at the Sunderland International Friendship Festival, to traditional ox roasting and fireworks at Houghton Feast, there is always something going on in Sunderland to suit all tastes.
For the energetic types, the Sunderland Wall and Silksworth Sports Complex offer climbing, skiing and snowboarding while Adventure Sunderland and the North East Diving Academy, both located on the beautiful coastline of Roker, boasts facilities for windsurfers, kayakers and divers.
Eating out and nightlife
Sunderland is a city that knows how to enjoy itself, and with a host of new bars and restaurants opening to join the established favourites there is no shortage of places to have a good time. Sunderland city centre features an array of contemporary and traditional bars, clubs and pubs.
The new underground music scene, which has recently evolved in Sunderland, has been voted the best by NME. Various venues throughout the Sunderland city play host to regular live music nights, featuring up and coming talent of the city.
