Here's some great walks to do in and around Sunderland other than the obvious walk along Roker and Seaburn - and they're all free.

5. Hawthorn Dene, East Durham
For a dramatic walk of unspoilt countryside and coastline, try the Hawthorn Hive Trail, a 5km trail through Hawthorne Dene, near Seaham. Walk through the woodland, under the impressive viaduct and down to the beach. | . Photo: Sunderland Echo

6. Barnes Park
The land for Barnes Park was bought in 1904 by the Borough of Sunderland for £8,500. Work commenced on the site in 1907 and it was officially opened on 6 August 1909. The park underwent a major £3.6million revamp which was completed in 2011. Historic features, including the band stand, were restored as well as new adventure play areas created. It's the largest park in the city | Sunderland Echo

7. Fatfield Riverside
Enjoy a riverside walk from Fatfield to Cox Green where you can admire the flora and fauna, enjoy the birdsong and may even catch a glimpse of a Heron or Kingfisher eyeing up lunch. You can marvel at the Victorian engineering feat to construct Victoria Viaduct and enjoy a hike on the network of paths through the woods and up to Penshaw Monument | Sunderland Echo

8. Seven Sisters, Houghton
Standing guard over Houghton, The Seven Sisters are six Beech trees (once seven) sitting on top of the Copt Hill Barrow. It's a spot that offers spectacular views of the surrounding coalfield towns. This was one of the pictures sent to us by the late talented photographer Dean Matthews | Dean Matthews

