A day at the seaside is a longstanding British tradition and while we may not always get the weather to match, the North East boasts some of the best beaches in the country.
Whether it be a plodge in the sea, building sand castles with the kids, a brisk family walk followed by fish and chips or something a little more adventurous such as paddle boarding or surfing, our region’s beaches offer a fantastic opportunity for a fun-filled day out.
Check out the following best 17 beaches within around an hours drive of Sunderland for families to enjoy over the next three bank holiday weekends.
The rankings are based on Tripadvisor reviews.
5. Beadnell Bay
Beadnell Bay Of 395 reviews, 310 people said the beach was excellent, 71 very good, 7 average, 5 poor and 2 terrible. Drive time from Sunderland - 1 hour and 15 minutes. One reviewer said: "This is a gorgeous place and well worth a trip. Beaches are lovely and the water clean. Lots of space for dogs to run and play. Ideal location for water sports enthusiasts also. Hidden gem of a place." Photo: Contributed
6. Long Sands Beach
Long Sands Beach Tynemouth Of 680 reviews, 478 people said the beach was excellent, 181 very good, 16 average, 2 poor and 3 terrible. Drive time from Sunderland - 25 minutes. One reviewer said: "Stunning beach. Very clean. Popular with paddle borders and people doing open water swimming. A nice place to sit and enjoy the scenery. Car parking close by and easy to get to." Photograph: Google Photo: Google
7. Alnmouth Beach
Alnmouth Beach Of 428 reviews, 315 people said the beach was excellent, 96 very good, 3 average, 7 poor and 7 terrible. Drive time from Sunderland - 1 hour and 3 minutes. One reviewer said: "Beautiful clean beach. On a hot summers day this beach is perfect. Stunning views, ample parking and a sleepy village." Photo: Jo Tasker
8. Roker and Seaburn Beach
Roker and Seaburn Beach Of 1,134 reviews, 775 people said the beach was excellent, 301 very good, 38 average, 11 poor and 9 terrible. Drive time from Sunderland - 10 minutes. One reviewer said: "One of the best beaches in the UK. Lovely golden sands and plenty to do and to eat and drink in the area. Even when the weather is bad it’s still a beautiful place to visit." Photo: Lucy Prior