Part of Moorside’s appeal is its closeness to so many great attractions. The Secret Garden at Doxford Park is close by, and is a lovely place to wander with the family. There’s also a David Lloyd centre within easy reach, which has a swimming pool for members. Karting North-East is a major draw for speed-fanatics of all ages, and Down at the Farm provides the perfect day out for younger children.
Hidden in the local countryside, you’ll also find Sharpley Springs Fly Fishery, which is the ideal spot for relaxing with a fishing rod. Sharpley Golf, just outside Old Burdon, has a driving range, chipping area and a putting green, and Bedlam Paintball is wonderful for older children (or adults with a thirst for splattering their friends with paint!).
There are also some great places to dine in and around Moorside and the surrounding areas. Oak Tree Farm Dining and Carvery is popular with locals, and The Prior has a menu full of much-loved British pub classics. Expect to find some well-established take-aways too, serving everything from Indian cuisine to fish and chips.
The best thing about Moorside and other areas on the periphery of Sunderland is that it’s simple to get to the city and wider north-east region, including Durham, Newcastle and Teesside. Some of the north-east’s best attractions are in Sunderland, such as the National Glass Centre, or the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens. Likewise, you’ll also be spoilt for choice when it comes eating out, or sipping cocktails with friends.
Even though places like Moorside, Doxford, Thurcroft and Mill Hill are close to Sunderland, they’re also well-equipped with local amenities. This means you’re never far from a convenience store, or a nearby supermarket. There are also plenty of well-regarded schools in and around these locations, such as the Benedict Biscop CE Academy, Portland Academy and Venerable Bede CE Academy.
As for transport – Sunderland’s suburban areas are designed with commuting in mind, with many bus stops, not to mention train stations. It takes roughly twenty minutes to travel into the city from places like Doxford, which makes getting to work each morning a pain-free process.