Roker and Seaburn named among the UK’s best beaches

Roker Beach has also earned the coveted Blue Flag for summer 2026, a symbol of the highest standards in water, cleanliness, and visitor facilities.

Despite recent debate on water quality, Sunderland’s Roker and Seaburn beaches have once again received Seaside Awards from Keep Britain Tidy, for their quality, cleanliness, and management.

Marc Morley, director of city services at Sunderland City Council, said: “I’m delighted that both Roker and Seaburn beaches will be proudly flying the national Seaside Awards flags again this year, this shows visitors that our seafront is safe, clean and well-managed.

“It is also great to see that Roker Beach has once again been awarded a prestigious blue flag – a symbol of the highest standards in water quality, cleanliness, and visitor facilities.

“In Sunderland we are proud of our beautiful coastline, and these awards are testament to the hard work of everyone who helps maintain our beaches – including our teams who work tirelessly to keep the beaches clean, and the residents and visitors who play a part in keeping the coastline tidy and protecting the environment.”

RNLI lifeguards will return to Seaburn, Roker, and Cat and Dog Beaches from Saturday, May 23, providing daily safety cover from 10am to 6pm until early September.

Residents are reminded that a lifeguarded beach is the safest place to swim outdoors, and to always to swim between the red and yellow flags.

This summer also promises extra entertainment along the seafront.

The One Big Summer by the Sea festival will bring Embrace, Ocean Colour Scene and The Waterboys to Seaburn’s Cliffe Park over the weekend of Friday and Saturday, August 14 and 15.

Improvements in the area continue to draw more visitors.

Roker Pier this year reopened following repairs to storm damage, and new hospitality venues including Namaste, Vallely’s, Boca Chica, and Elephant Rock are now welcoming customers nearby.