Both have clean sandy beaches, promenades, amusement parks and arcades. There are also children’s playgrounds, fish and chip shops, gift shops and ice creams parlours too.
Roker
In essence, Roker has two beaches. Firstly, there is the wonderful flat beach at the bottom of the Cat and Dog Steps. Then there is another beach on the other side of the Roker Pier. Together with the clean sea water and the odd rock pool, kids really love the beaches in Roker. As a matter of fact, the Cannonball Rocks at Roker beach are a unique feature too. This is because only certain parts of the world can say they have similar rocks in their locality.
Obviously, in Roker there are some other unique attractions. For example, there is the Roker Pier complete with a lighthouse at the end. Built in Victorian times, its an ideal place for a summer stroll as well as spot of sea fishing. Then there is Roker Park which open to discovery and is great for recreational purposes. You can access Roker Park from both the upper and lower promenades.
Bungalow Cafe
Furthermore, outside the cafe is the famous signpost. This of course shows directions to the The Beach, The Village, The Bungalow and curiously, Germany!
Seaburn
While Roker has a few more attractions than Seaburn, the beach here is just as good. Although Seaburn has a massive beach, it doesn’t get as busy in comparison with its heydays. Prior to cheap holiday flights abroad, the beach would be very busy. However, many people prefer the relative calm of the vast sandy beaches. In reality, Seaburn beach compares favourably with some of the best beaches in the country. Seaburn funfair has also been through a little redevelopment in the late 1980’s. Indeed, there is now a new amusement park and leisure centre too.
Of course, a new Morrison’s Supermarket ensures a constant stream of people coming to the area. The supermarket also has a petrol station. Moreover, Morrison’s Supermarket entrance displays a huge replica painting of critically acclaimed painter LS Lowry. Of course, this is in acknowledgement of time he would spend and stay in the area. In fact, the road to the side of Morrisons takes the name of the painter – Lowry Road.
Sunderland International Airshow
Obviously, the Royal Air Force has their displays on the ground as well as in the air. For example, there are aeroplanes which are accessible and people are able to get close up for pictures. There are also simulators for people to try their hand at flying virtual aircraft. Indeed, around one million visitors come to the area over the Sunderland Airshow weekend. So, get there early on those days as traffic and parking can be a nightmare.
Boxing Day Dip
Friends and family together with passers-by shout and cheer them on as they faithfully perform their brave deed. Of course, there are cold water hosepipes that can douse and prepare them before they make the plunge. So, no matter what the weather is like, frost, blizzard or icy rain, the brave Wearsiders continue with the tradition.
There are ample parking spaces available near Seaburn, except on special event days of course. However, the area has plenty of bus services and a Metro service too. But the Seaburn Metro station is pretty far away from the beach and is in Fulwell.
Sunderland Illuminations
In short, to extend the season at the twin resorts of Roker and Seaburn, there are the extensive Sunderland Illuminations. Both Roker and Seaburn share the Sunderland Illuminations jointly. However, Roker Park has a separate display and is a great place for the kids to spend an evening. In fact, there is a whole host of attractions at Roker and Seaburn when the nights begin to get darker.
To Sum Up Roker And Seaburn
There seems to be something for everyone at Roker and Seaburn whether on holiday or a day out. Indeed, not many towns or cities in the UK can boast of resorts like these. So, don’t forget, Roker and Seaburn is on our doorsteps!
