If you think you know Sunderland, think again. While its mining and shipbuilding heritage is still clearly visible, there’s so much more to this visionary city than meets the eye.
For starters, the city has a buzzing cultural scene. The Fire Station is the North East’s newest arts venue, hosting everything from classical to indie via jazz and folk.
Sunderland also has a flourishing restaurant scene, with a huge range of Asian, Indian and Italian-inspired eateries, not to mention Turkish and tapas as well as traditional favourites.
For outdoor pursuits, climb Penshaw Hill to admire the stunning views that stretch for miles across the region. Alternatively, enjoy a seaside trip to Roker Pier and lighthouse. The sea air is invigorating as you stroll along the beachfront, while water sports enthusiasts can have heaps of fun surfing, kayaking or sailing at Adventure Sunderland.
Enjoy a stay at Roker Hotel, BW Premier Collection by Best Western, overlooking the sea and the lighthouse.
Sheffield
Sheffield is rapidly turning into a foodie hotspot – and it’s not just us saying it – it was one of the Observer Food Monthly’s food favourites for 2023. A trip here could help you discover some of the newest food talent and be a real treat for your tastebuds.
A good place to start your foodie pilgrimage is Kelham Island in the city’s oldest industrial district. Enjoy a bottomless brunch at the Cutlery Works, voted the best food hall in the UK in the 2022 British Street Food Awards.
And while you might think of Sheffield as the Steel City, it’s actually one of the UK’s greenest cities – partly in thanks to its 22,600 acres of green space. So, if you fancy a more outdoorsy city break, we recommend walking the Rivelin Valley Trail, which links Sheffield to the Peak District.
If it’s raining, Sheffield Winter Garden can provide a unique undercover experience – it’s the largest urban glasshouse in Europe and home to more than 2,500 plants.
Choose one of our hotels in Sheffield.
Canterbury
Dominated by its mighty cathedral, Canterbury is one of the prettiest historic cities to spend time in just wandering around its medieval cobbled streets, timber-framed buildings and riverside gardens.
You can find out more about the city at the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, which is jam-packed full of curios and paintings you can ‘step into’. Nearby, the Canterbury Roman Museum is home to the UK’s only remaining Roman pavement mosaic which hasn’t been moved from its original place.
Canterbury is also a good base to visit local vineyards such as Chartham or follow the Canterbury beer trail to sample local and real ales. Grapes and hops are grown in this part of England thanks to its relatively mild climate.
If you fancy a beach day during your city break, the classic seaside towns of Herne Bay and Whitstable are only around 8 miles away.