Roker Area & Property Guide

The seaside area of Roker is one of the most sought-after locations in Sunderland. In addition to being on the coast, it also gives residents the chance to be close to the city, with all its attractions and amenities. From Sunderland station, commuters can reach places like Newcastle, Durham, Carlisle and Middlesbrough with ease.

Roker was first founded in 1587, by the Abbs family. They were gifted the area, on the condition that they supplied a few soldiers to protect the mouth of the river. A few centuries later, Roker was flourishing, and fast turning into the thriving seaside zone that it is today. By the mid-19th century, Roker Terrace had been built, along with the Monkwearmouth baths and Roker Park.

Until 1997, the area was also home to Sunderland AFC. Now, it’s less about the football, and more about relaxing by the sea; enjoying a slice of coastal living, without sacrificing proximity to the city. However, there’s more to Roker than just the beaches.

Roker Park Conservation Area is the perfect place to take a stroll, and there are several great restaurants and pubs too. Downey’s, Six, Love Lily and Grannie Annie’s is situated right on the seafront, and Poetic Licence Bar, Antico and Italian Farmhouse is just a short walk away. There are also some good independent shops, and convenience stores for picking up the essentials.

Roker is a relatively affluent place, and as such, there are plenty of impressive detached and semi-detached properties on the market. Architecturally, you can expect to see a diverse range of styles, ranging from attractive Victorian homes, to spacious contemporary houses. Although house prices are a bit higher here than in other parts of Sunderland, there are still plenty of options for first-time buyers, and for those working to a budget.

Homes with sea views tend to be the most desirable, and there are some appealing bungalows and detached properties along the sea front. The Victorian terraced houses can be found further inland, with several offering period features such as bay windows and original fireplaces. There are also a few 1930s semi-detached houses, and some well-designed modern accommodation too.

If you like contemporary homes, you’ll be pleased to know there are some good examples of 21st century architecture in Roker, and some great purpose-built apartments; many with far-reaching views of the sea. If you’re looking for something highly affordable, the smaller terraces and flats offer fantastic value for money.

Roker’s most obvious attractions are the Blue Flag award-winning beaches. They’re sandy, which means they’re perfect for families with young children, and the recently restored pier is a popular place to sit and soak up the atmosphere.

A little further inland, there’s Roker Park. This green area is not only excellent for taking the dog for a walk; it’s also got play-zones for the kids and a scenic lake. The International Air Show takes place every summer, and is always a major draw for visitors to the area. Likewise, the illuminations (which start in September and finish in November) create a wonderful ambiance in the autumn months.

Take a walk to the far edge of the beach, and you’ll find Sunderland Yacht Club; ideal for those who love sailing and the North Haven Marina Development. If you’re looking for something more bracing, there’s a community of wild swimmers in Roker, who regularly take dips in the sea; even when the temperatures turn chilly.

If that wasn’t enough, it’s easy to walk Sunderland itself, or catch a train from neighbouring Stadium of Light or St Peter’s Metro station. The city has some great attractions on offer, including the famous National Glass Centre, the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, and a wealth of cinemas, bowling alleys, bars and shops to explore.

Roker is well served by several convenience stores; not to mention an Iceland and a Tesco Extra. There are also some good schools, such as Redby Academy; a primary school that’s in the heart of the area. Venture a little further afield and you’ll find other schools, like Fulwell Junior and Fulwell Infant Schools, and Grange Park Primary School.

There are plenty of bus stops for those that require an easy commute into Sunderland. From the city, trains take travellers across the country; with London King’s Cross being just three and a half hours away.

Sunderland is the place to head for serious retail therapy, but make no mistake, Roker has a good selection of small shops for the local community; selling everything from guitars and tiles, to liquor and vintage clothing.