Make this your go-to guide for the kids' summer holidays in Sunderland. Whether you're planning a family day out, looking for free activities or searching for something new to do, you'll find plenty of inspiration here.
From city centre events and seafront adventures to paddleboarding, cinema trips and family attractions, we've rounded up some of the best things to do across Sunderland. Whatever the weather or your budget, there's something for everyone to enjoy this summer.
CITY CENTRE
Take a look at a selection of what Sunderland City Centre has to offer from Sunderland's local businesses.
The Bridges
This summer, The Bridges is hosting an eco-focused event called Ocean/Eco Explorers throughout August from 3 – 28 .
All activities are free of charge to find out more click HERE!
The Bridges, Sunderland SR1 3DR
OMNIPLEX Cinema
Enjoy the ultimate family cinema trip this summer at OMNIPLEX, with a fantastic programme of family favourites and new releases showing throughout July and August. Films include Moana, Animal Farm, PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie, The Pout-Pout Fish, Tad and the Magic Lamp and Coyote vs. Acme.
From 25 June to 1 September, families can also enjoy 15% off eligible child and family tickets as part of OMNIPLEX's Family Summer Savings offer.
Ticket prices:
- Adult tickets from £8.95
- Child tickets (with a paying adult) from £6.56
- Family tickets (4 people) from £30.44
4 Lambton St, Sunderland SR1 1TP
Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens
Enjoy a free family day out at Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens this summer. Explore the tropical gardens, discover the museum's fascinating exhibits and take part in family-friendly activities throughout the holidays. Afterwards, why not pop into the Sea Change Café for a snack or a refreshing drink?
Summer activities:
Tuesday Museum Club – every Tuesday during the summer holidays
Treasure Trail – 23 July to 5 September
Admission: Free
Winter Gardens, Burdon Rd, Sunderland SR1 1PP
Sunderland Empire
ATG INSPIRE Sunderland Theatre Summer School
A week long programme is packed full of creative activities including masterclasses, dance, singing, drama and backstage workshops where your young person will learn more about what goes on behind the scenes of a working theatre.
From 27 - 31 July 2026
Book your place NOW!
The Karate Kid The Musical
Honouring the roots of the timeless story, this musical celebrates resilience, mentorship, and the quiet strength that bridges generations.
Destiny is in your hands. Wax on. Wax off. Book NOW!
From 14 - 18 July 2026
4-5 High St W, Sunderland SR1 3EX
Fire Station
Summer Schools at The Fire Station
Spark your child's creativity this summer with one of the fantastic Summer Schools at The Fire Station. Led by industry professionals, children can enjoy singing, dancing and acting while building confidence, making new friends and developing their performance skills.
With courses for a range of ages and abilities, each summer school ends with the chance to perform for family and friends. Places are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment.
Musical Theatre Summer school (ages 14-16) - 27 - 31 July
Musical Theatre Summer school (age 17+) - 27 - 31 July
Musical Theatre Summer Camp: Juniors (Ages 6-11) - 3 - 8 August
Musical Theatre Summer Camp: Seniors (Ages 12+) - 3 - 8 August
Musical Theatre Summer Camp: Tots & Minis (Age 3-6) - 5 August
9 High St W, Sunderland SR1 3HA
Keel Square - Events
Our very own Keel Square has so many events packed in for you this summer with all of your family favourites.
Summer in the Square - 28th July - 11 am - 2 pm - Free Entry
Girly Pop Fest - 23 August - 12am - 4 pm - Tickets starting from £22.50 per person
Family Fest - 31 August - 10 am - 2 pm - Tickets starting from £11.00 per person
Why not head over this summer to one of the amazing events the city has to offer.
To find out more click this LINK
Laser Quest
Book a combo pass now and keep the fun going! Enjoy Laser Quest and choose a VR experience with one of the combo passes!
Combo pass 1 - x1 Lazer Quest game and x1 VR Game - £7.95
Combo pass 2 - x2 Lazer Quest game and x1 VR Game - £11.95
Combo Pass 3 - x2 Lazer Quest game and x2 VR Game - £14.95
Zappy Hour - 2 games for £7.95 per person - Available on weekends and holidays at 10am and 12pm
Book NOW!
Escape Rooms
Why not book an escape room for up to 6 people and for only £60 for the room.
Book NOW!
30-32 John St, Sunniside, Sunderland SR1 1JG
Beacon of Light
School Summer Holiday Programme
Foundation of Light are set to deliver five weeks of summer fun as our popular holiday programme returns for another action-packed summer.
With a packed schedule featuring football courses, cooking and baking sessions, gaming activities and much more, there’s something to keep children of all ages active, engaged and entertained throughout the school holidays.
A summer of fun packed with activities from 27 July - 27 August
Follow this link to find out MORE
Summer In The Square
Why not head down to our very own Keel Square on Wednesday 23rd July, from 11:00 am–2:00 pm, for a lunchtime packed with exciting activities for the whole family!
Enjoy live street art, explore a fire engine, meet police dogs and horses, and discover so much more. Whether you're bringing the kids or just fancy a fun lunchtime outing, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Follow this LINK to find out more!
British Esports Campus
School Holiday gaming parties
From the 22 July to the 1 September British Esports have bookable gaming parties for groups of up to 7.
Game like a pro on competition grade gaming PC’s in our bootcamp rooms.
To book click this LINK
SEAFRONT
Take a look at a selection of what Sunderland's Seafront has to offer from across Sunderland's local businesses.
STACK
Why not head to STACK Seaburn this summer for the perfect family day out. Meet some of the kids' favourite characters, enjoy live entertainment with plenty of singing and dancing, and tuck into delicious food and refreshing drinks from the fantastic range of vendors. It's the perfect place to relax while the little ones enjoy the fun.
Whitburn Road, Seaburn, Sunderland SR6 8AA
Ice Extravaganza
28 July from 12:30 pm
Enjoy live singing, dancing and snow-filled interactive games for the full family. Plus a chance to meet our favourite Ice Sisters in an enchanting meet and greet, perfect for photos and warm hugs!
Book NOW!
K-POP Takeover
30 July and 20 August from 12 am
Get ready to dance, sing and shine at our Kids K-Pop Party, packed with interactive games, high-energy dance-alongs and the biggest K-Pop hits kids love.
Book NOW!
Celebration of Stitch
4 August from 6 pm
Aloha, friends! Get ready to dance, play, and say “Ohana!” as we bring the island vibes to life at STACK.
Book NOW!
Magician Marvin
22 July & 5, 19 August
Step into a world of wonder and excitement at STACK Seaburn!
Join us as Magician Marvin takes the stage with his fabulous magic show, guaranteed to leave little ones wide-eyed with amazement!
Book NOW!
Bubble Show
24 July & 21 August from 1:30 pm
A real treat from bubbleplay entertainer as Stack presents a wonderful interactive expriance with bubbles. The kids will be amazed at the amazing bubble display and have briliant fun!
Book NOW!
Kid's Fest
6 & 27 August from 12 pm
The Ultimate Family Festival returns for a third year, right here in STACK! Join us for a vibrant event packed with flags, bubbles, good tunes, non-stop dancing, sing-alongs and epic games for all ages!
Book NOW!
Toddler Takeover - Celebration of Ms Rachel
11 August from 12 pm
Returning due to popular demand for another jam-packed day of singing, dancing, learning, and laughter designed just for our youngest attendees.
Book NOW!
Glitter Pop
13 August from 12 pm
Get your glitter ready and sing along with Glitter Pop - a dazzling tribute show for all the family, bursting with girl power and all the biggest pop songs.
Book NOW!
Celebration of Trolls
18 August from 12 pm
Get ready for a colourful family adventure at STACK! Join us for a troll-tastic celebration packed with dancing, interactive games, and magical fun for all ages.
This event is a free experience too!
Adventure Sunderland
Summer Holiday Adventure Days
6 hour day session packed full of exciting activities based on our very own Roker beach for only £35 a day.
Running every almost every Monday - Friday from 23 July to 28 August
Book your place NOW!
Marine Walk, Roker, Sunderland SR6 0PL
Roker Pier Tours
Why not head down to Roker Pier to Walk the length of the tunnel and emerge at the Lighthouse. Explore the rich history behind the superstructure, the individuals behind its construction, and the restoration of the building in recent years.
Available, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and some Sundays.
So why not book your experience NOW!
Adventure, Marine Walk, Roker, Sunderland SR6 0PH
Leisureworld - Seaburn
Why not head to the amusements this summer? Open 10am–10pm, seven days a week, it's the perfect place for the kids to let off some steam during the summer holidays. With plenty of games and family fun, it's a great way to spend a day on Sunderland's seafront.
Find out MORE!
Roker Hotel
K-POP Party!!!!!
July 27 - 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
The new Roker Events @ The Roker Hotel for an amazing K-POP Party you won't want to miss! Our star act for the day is our fantastic children's entertainer and party DJ, who will keep the little ones entertained with a kids' disco, games.
So why not book your tickets NOW!
Back to School Party!
August 28 - 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
At the new Roker Events @ The Roker Hotel for a party you won't want to miss! Our star act for the day is our fantastic children's entertainer and party DJ who will keep the little ones entertained with a kids' disco, games.
So why not book your tickets NOW!
Roker and Seaburn Beaches
Why not head to one of our amazing beaches for a free day out by the sea? Build sandcastles, paddle in the waves, and enjoy the fresh sea air. While you're there, treat yourself to a delicious ice cream, a perfect way to top off your beach day!
TRAVEL
Nexus Free Summer Holiday Travel
Kids go free on local bus services operating within County Durham, Tyne and Wear and Northumberland during the school holidays. Dates for the diary:
18 July 2026 – 20 August 2026
Make the most of the Kids Go Free offer by heading for a fun day out.
Save up to 25% on entry to top North East attractions
Travel by bus, rail and Metro – or a combination! At the venue, show your paper or digital ticket, your journey transaction (if you’ve used contactless to tap on and tap off), or your pass.
Days Out By Bus
Days Out by Bus is a North East initiative that rewards sustainable travel by offering discounts and exclusive perks at participating attractions and businesses for visitors arriving by bus, and at selected locations by Metro, train or bike. It's a great way to enjoy affordable days out while supporting local businesses and choosing greener travel.
To find out more please click this LINK
KIDS EAT FREE
We have compiled a list of businesses in Sunderland who are offering kids eat free offers, please see below:
To find out more please click the location for more details.
Finally, while the kids are enjoying all the fantastic activities on offer this summer, take the opportunity to explore everything Sunderland has to offer. From shopping in the city centre and visiting The Bridges Shopping Centre to strolling along the beautiful seafront, relaxing on the beach or stopping for a bite to eat, Sunderland is the perfect place to make lasting family memories this summer.
We hope you have had the most wonderful time exploring our wonderful City and Seafront this summer in Sunderland.
For more events information, click this LINK.