If you’re looking for something to do with the kids, we’ve rounded up some of the attractions you can visit in and around Sunderland.
For a guide to Sunderland parks see here.


. Souter Lighthouse, South Tyneside
In line with government guidance, the countryside space is open for local visitors to access for walks. They ask all visitors to follow guidance on social distancing to keep everyone safe. The cafe is open daily, with a limited takeaway menu. Photo: JPI Media

. Finchale Priory
Just outside Sunderland, en route to Durham, Finchale Priory is a beautifully tranquil spot, despite only being a short drive off the A690. Entry is free to wander the remains of this 13th century priory, founded on the site of a retired pirate's hermitage. There's also a great woodland walk to do following the path of the river. It's open 10am to 5pm daily.. Photo: JPI Media

. Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve, near Houghton
Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve is open with social distancing measures in place. Stoat, weasel, brown hare and roe deer are regularly seen and the wetlands attract numerous dragonflies and damselflies. Butterfly numbers are also high, particularly grassland species. The coffee shop is also open for takeaway treats for your stroll. The toilets have also reopened and the barriers lifted for vehicle access. Photo: submitted

1. Souter Lighthouse, South Tyneside
In line with government guidance, the countryside space is open for local visitors to access for walks. They ask all visitors to follow guidance on social distancing to keep everyone safe. The cafe is open daily, with a limited takeaway menu. Photo: JPI Media

2. Finchale Priory
Just outside Sunderland, en route to Durham, Finchale Priory is a beautifully tranquil spot, despite only being a short drive off the A690. Entry is free to wander the remains of this 13th century priory, founded on the site of a retired pirate's hermitage. There's also a great woodland walk to do following the path of the river. It's open 10am to 5pm daily.. Photo: JPI Media

3. Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve, near Houghton
Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve is open with social distancing measures in place. Stoat, weasel, brown hare and roe deer are regularly seen and the wetlands attract numerous dragonflies and damselflies. Butterfly numbers are also high, particularly grassland species. The coffee shop is also open for takeaway treats for your stroll. The toilets have also reopened and the barriers lifted for vehicle access. Photo: submitted

4. Beamish, near Stanley, Durham
Beamish, The Living Museum of the North has reopened its outdoor areas and timeslot tickets are available to book online. The County Durham open air museum is able to open its grounds only under Step 2 of the government’s COVID-19 roadmap. Visitors can explore the museum and enjoy takeaway treats, including from Davy’s fish and chip shop, Herron’s Bakery and Jubilee Confectioners. They’ll also be able to take a ride at the Fairground, do a spot of Edwardian shopping at The 1900s Town stall and complete the family flower trail around the museum. Under the Step 2 rules, the museum cannot yet open its indoor attractions and buildings, or run its transport, with the exception of the wheelchair accessible bus, which will be operating on an on-call basis. Photo: submitted