Roker Beach has changed over the years. It was once the backdrop to Roker Park, the home of Sunderland AFC. The pier and lighthouse were built between 1885 and 1903 when Sunderland was a major port. It provides a brilliant view as you park at the top of the front and work your way down to the beach area. In the summer or is a lively beach with plenty of visitors. In the other months of the year when the weather isn't good enough for your swimming gear then there are people walking dogs, beachcombers with metal detectors and many cyclists. It is a lovely part of the world, especially when the fun is shining.
There has been some money ploughed into the area and a selection of cafes and restaurants await any hungry visitor. The Roker Hotel has a great choice at the top of the cliffs with some great views. At the bottom near the sea there are a few options, including a a fish and chip shop. It is a haven for cyclists, dog walkers and photographers. The opportunity of getting that great shot at the start or the end of the day brings a flurry of photographers and the options are a beautiful picture of a calm sea or stunning shots of the crashing waves.
It's not far from the sights of the marina, the docks, the National Glass Centre and the Stadium of Light - the new home of Sunderland AFC. It is good to make the most of those last good days of 2016. Sunday was a brilliant morning to spend time near the sea.
I urge you all to spend some time in and around the Sunderland seafront when in the North East of England. It is always underrepresented by the media and travel guides but is a real gem that should be explored. The illuminations in October and November in the run up to Christmas is a great little at to take it all in too.
