Sunderland

Sunderland, located in North East England, is a a modern, bustling centre that is balanced with stunning coastal scenery and activities for all. Sunderland is home to some of the most visited cultural attractions in the UK. The Sunderland Empire Theatre is largest in the area and can seat 1,860 people and is the only theatre in the area large enough to allow for large-scale West End theatrical productions.

Even if you don't go see a show in the theatre, you'll want to stop by to see the theatre itself. It was built in 1907, and has been recently redone in period motif. The dome on the 90 foot tower features a revolving sphere bearing the statue of Terpischore, the Greek goddess of dance and also has an LED floodlight system to illuminate the main entrance to the building.

The National Glass Centre is located in in a spectacular glass and steel building with panoramic views over the River Wear and shows the full history of glass making in the UK along with glass statues and wares from local artists. Watch glass products being made and see cutting-edge examples of of the contemporary glass maker's art. . Over 100,000 visitors from all over the UK and beyond visit the National Glass Centre every year. It is open from 10.00 to 17.00 every day. Price for admissions is £3.00.

You can also be close to nature in the middle of the city, or at least feel that way. The Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens offer displays and multimedia presentations that tell the history of the city. In a stainless steel and glass rotunda, the Winter Gardens feature a tropical rainforest flourishing with palms, tree ferns, bananas and citrus trees. You can walk along a treetop walkway to see a birds-eye view of the lush canopy of foliage with a 30 foot waterfall and individual micro climates. Or, you can stroll along one of the UK's longest stretches of city-side beaches at Roker and Seaburn. Roker is ideal for water sports and is near the Marine Activities Centre. Seaburn is more of a place for relaxation, with its wide stretches of sandy beach and green, traffic-free promenade.

Want to go on a pub crawl? Any night of the week is good. Mid-week nights feature special offers and discounted entry and drinks and you're sure to ifnd a crowd with the University of Sunderland's large student population nearby. Weekends are all out fun with happening nightlife, live bands and many dance clubs to choose from.

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See a Map of Sunderland