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Bars & Nightlife

Bars and nightlife

Sunderland's nightlife is part of what makes our city great, and our top bars, clubs and restaurants always give visitors a warm North East welcome. 

Whether it's casual drinks after work, a big night out with friends or a quiet date night with a tipple or two, Sunderland's bar scene is packed with options for every kind of celebration. 

Head to any of Sunderland's trendy cocktail bars where you can unwind with a glass of fizz (or two), a fruity cocktail or a selection of spirits from rum and vodka, to luxury whiskies and gin. Or, kick back at Sunderland's best pubs for freshly pulled pints, bar snacks and locally sourced artisan brews. 

From cosy village pubs that capture the friendly local spirit, to bustling beer gardens in the city centre and beyond, you can have a great night out in Sunderland, whatever the season. You can even make a night of it by pairing with a visit to our local restaurants, cinemas and theatres. 

If partying is more your style, Sunderland is also home to a number of clubs, where you can continue to drink and dance the night away.

Plan your night out in Sunderland, and discover what makes it a fun-filled city to live and relax.

808 Bar & Kitchen (night)

Eat good - Drink good - Feel good is the motto of 808 Bar & Kitchen.

Bar Justice

Stylish cocktail and champagne bar situated in Sunnside. Walking into Bar Justice takes you into another world where you can escape the daily rigours and relax in the darkly lit and atmospheric bar. Comfortable couches and stools surround the bar, where further into the back of the venue you can venture into a more secluded seating area.

Basement

A weekly programme of club nights and DJ's from around the world. A great sound system, private booths and VIP areas for special guests are available.

Chaplins

With a beer garden and real cask ale on sale, this is a popular pub, especially on match days. There is a food menu available including breakfasts, lunches and evening meals, and it's right in the city centre, close to the transport interchange.

Establishment

Situated close to the Travelodge Central, Empire Theatre and close to other bars and restaurants, this is in the centre of Sunderland's nightlife. Establishment has many special offers and an extensive variety of continental beers and lagers and also has a house DJ playing music to get everyone in the party mood!

Fitzgeralds

Close to the bus and Metro station and the University of Sunderland, Fitzgeralds boasts a range of guest ales. It is popular with a wide range of customers, including locals, students and visitors to the city. A bit like a tardis, 'Fitzies' as it is known locally has a large long bar and many tables and chairs to sit at, as well as a beer garden which gets busy, especially on sunny days.

Gatsby's

Large corner bar with two floors, the ground floor is modern in its design, whilst the top floor is art deco in its style. It has student drinks offers and cheaper prices during the week.

Gin & Bear It

Gin & Bear It is a bar specialising in gins located in the Sunniside area of the city centre. Stocking over 40 different varieties of gins, as well as a range of cocktails, craft beers, ales and wines there is plenty of choice at this new venue. The bar has an industrial feel and aims to be a relaxed environment for gin lovers to sit back and enjoy their tipple of choice. The late opening hours ensure the night owls of Sunderland have an alternative late night option in the Sunniside Quarter.

Grannie Annie's Pub & Pantry (night)

Situated on Roker seafront, Grannie Annie's pub & pantry serves a great selection of drinks and some delicous food.... just like Grannie makes it! They are dog friendly every day, but ask that dogs vacate the premises at 8pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Greens

A light and modern bar located close to the Empire Theatre. With leather seating and lots of light coming in through the large front windows this is a pleasant bar to sit in during the day especially to watch SAFC home and away matches. At night it transforms into a fun pub with DJ's on most Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. Check their website for news on events.

Independent

One of the most popular clubs in Sunderland due to its mix of DJ nights and bands playing live music. Known for playing alternative music to pop, such as Nu-Jazz, Acid House and Rock 'n' Roll, it gives clubbers a different club night experience.

Life of Riley

Life of Riley is a live music venue which aims to showcase the best of local live and acoustic talent. The stage is opposite the bar with plenty of space for those who like to get into the groove. The beer garden on the terrace outside is spacious and sometimes has live music too. You can also sign up via Facebook for deals and special offers.

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