Seaside resort in the UK: What makes the English city of Sunderland interesting for tourists
The large port city of Sunderland is the jewel of the North East of the United Kingdom and a vibrant resort city that has undergone significant development in recent years. Along the coast, near Seaburn Quay, tourists can enjoy scenic views and dine at one of the local bars and restaurants.
Numerous modern projects are visible in the area, ranging from a former 1920s tram stop to a container yard featuring shops and entertainment. The key to Sunderland's success was unveiled by Chronicle Live.
In 2023, the Blacks Corner Tram Shelter was reopened in the city. This iconic location from the 1920s ceased to function as a tram stop in October 1954. Sunderland City Council and the Coastal Communities Foundation invested half a million pounds in the restoration of this facility. The restoration work was carried out by Blacks Corner owner Johnny Dryden and his business partner Chris Lowden.
"We had to carry out major repairs; there was a lot of work involved. However, to accomplish all this, we needed permission to use the architectural monument. The building has stood as a sort of crown on the waterfront for the last 70 years. I believe we approached the restoration process with understanding and care, which we thoroughly explained to the city council, and they were very pleased. I consider Seaburn the jewel of the city. It's the crown jewel," said Johnny Dryden.
Now, this place is known as a restaurant with an outdoor area and a view of the coast. Here, you can enjoy a farm-to-table menu featuring dishes from cheesemongers and butchers from different parts of the British Isles. According to the owners, more than 1000 people from Alnwick, York, and Derby visited them in the first week after the restaurant opened.
Another interesting place in the city is a coastal hotel from the Inn Collection Group, "The Seaburn". It was opened two years ago near the seafront on Whitburn Road in a lively area of the city. The hotel offers 40 rooms, with 19 providing amazing sea views.
Andrew Robson, Communications Manager at Inn Collection Group, stated: "We have a good percentage of people who book directly through us rather than through online travel agencies. People come, enjoy their experience, and come back again and again."
Another interesting destination for tourists in Sunderland is the STACK Seaburn business and entertainment center. It is noteworthy that this container site, situated on the coast, is a favorite and most popular place in all of Sunderland. According to Neil Winch, CEO of STACK, this project is located on the site of the former Pullman Lodge hotel, which became part of the city's restored coastal zone in 2020.
"We've created a place where people of all ages can come together, offering a mix of unique events, a number of independent street food vendors, and a variety of retailers. It's all about creating a sense of community!" said Neil Winch.
Currently, the city continues to develop to improve the quality of life and attract new visitors. In particular, the city council plans to implement several other projects aimed at further developing Sunderland's waterfront.