There's plenty of free, fun family activities going on in Sunderland during the upcoming summer holidays.
From exciting days out to crafts and sports activities, we've pulled together a list of events, places and things going on to keep the kids busy this summer...
Hylton Castle
This summer, take a trip to the historic Hylton Castle. You can explore freely or book a guided tour to learn about the 14th century monument.
On Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 July, the castle are hosting ‘The Battle for Sunderland’. The free event is taking place 12pm- 5pm and involves a battle re-enactment, an artillery display, face painting, Heritage crafts, food and drink and historical story telling.
For more information, visit: https://hyltoncastle.org.uk/
Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens
Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens are hosting a range of summer events and activities including:
- Wild Wonders Trail: Tuesday 25 July – Saturday 2 September
- Elmer drawing competition: Tuesday 25 July – Saturday 2 September
- Arty Wednesdays: Wednesday 26 July – Wednesday 23 August
- Really Wild Fridays: Friday 28 July – Friday 25 August
For more information, visit: https://sunderlandculture.org.uk/our-venues/sunderland-museum-winter-gardens/
Inflatable assault course, Crowtree
On Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 July, from 11am – 3pm there will be a free giant,inflatable assault course on Crowtree for an active family day out!
Find out more: https://www.sunderlandbid.co.uk/events/free-inflatable-assault-course
Jurassic Jungle Trail
Starting Saturday 22 July – Sunday 3 September, The Sunderland BID have created an ‘Augmented Reality Fun’ Jurassic Jungle Trail. Get the family ready for a day out in Sunderland hunting and finding pre-historic creatures using the Sunderland Experience App. Download for free!
Find out more: https://www.sunderlandbid.co.uk/events/jurassic-jungle-trail
Keel Square outdoor cinema
On Saturday 5 August, 19 August and 2 September, Keel Square will be presenting free, family friendly film screenings. Food, drinks and snacks will be available to purchase.
For more information on film showings and booking information, visit:https://www.sunderlandbid.co.uk/events/free-outdoor-cinema
Crazy Golf, High Street West
On Thursday 10 August, there will be a free crazy golf course on High Street West from 11am – 3pm. Whether you’re out with the kids or having a catch up with friends, this activity is for fun for everyone.
Find out more: https://www.sunderlandbid.co.uk/events/free-crazy-golf-0
Active Sunderland Family Fun, Mowbray Park
On Wednesday 16 August, Active Sunderland are hosting a free family sports event from 10am – 3pm at Mowbray Park including swing balls, running, cycling, archery, tennis and much more.
Find out more: https://www.sunderlandbid.co.uk/events/active-sunderland-family-fun
Circus Skills Workshop, Sunniside Gardens
On Wednesday 16, 23 and 30 August, head to Sunniside Gardens to learn some magical circus skills including juggling, plate spinning and balancing acts. The event is free however booking is required.
Find out more: https://www.sunderlandbid.co.uk/events/free-circus-skills-workshop-2
Minster Park Family Fun Day
On August bank holiday Monday, there will be a family fun day at Minster Park from 11am – 4pm. Fun activities include crafts stalls, musical performances, storytelling, tombola, a cake sale and more.
Find out more: https://www.sunderlandbid.co.uk/events/minster-park-family-fun-day
Sunderland libraries craft activities
Libraries in the city centre, Houghton and Washington are hosting fun craft activities during the 6 weeks holidays.
- City Library at The Museum and Winter Gardens: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2:30 – 3:30pm
- Houghton Library: Wednesdays and Fridays, 2:30 – 3:30pm
- Washington Library: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2:30 – 3:30pm
Find out more: https://www.sunderland.gov.uk/whats-on-in-libraries
Beacon of Light
Starting Monday 24 July, The Beacon of Light are hosting a full 6-week summer programme with a range of free activities for all the family including football, baking, crafts and much more.
For more information, visit: https://beaconoflight.co.uk/what-s-on/
Together for Children Holiday Programme
Starting Monday 24 July, The Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) programme - named 'Wear Here 4' in Sunderland, are offering fun activities and nutritious meals during the school holidays in a variety of area across Sunderland.
The programme is free for children and young people living in the region who are eligible for free school meals or are in a family struggling with the cost of living crisis.
To find out more, visit: https://www.togetherforchildren.org.uk/article/21867/Holiday-Activity-and-Food-HAF-Programme
