Families in Sunderland have a new range of free activities to enjoy during the upcoming school holidays, with The Bridges Shopping Centre hosting a series of events from 3 April to 17 April 2026. The programme aims to provide local households with free entertainment options throughout the two-week break.
The centre, which is located in the city centre and was opened by Anne, Princess Royal in 1988, is offering an Easter Spring Trail and several craft workshops. The trail begins at The Potting Shed, located outside New Look. After completing the trail, children can visit Waterstones to collect treats and enter a prize draw. Throughout the holidays, the centre is also encouraging families to consider a voluntary £2 donation via a coin drop at The Potting Shed, with all funds raised going to charity.
The craft workshops held at The Potting Shed provide a hands-on experience for children. The sessions include spring wreath making on 7 April, bee hotel creation on 9 April, plant potting on 14 April, and building bird feeders on 16 April. Additional entertainment will be provided by the Easter Bunny and friends, who will make appearances on Good Friday and Easter Monday between 11 am and 3 pm to greet visitors and hand out chocolate treats.
These events, promoted in coordination with the Sunderland Business Partnership, follow a history of community programming at the site. Last year, the centre hosted Paddington Bear inspired activities that engaged more than 1,500 children and families. The initiative comes as the shopping centre continues to serve as a significant local hub, having welcomed over 11 million visitors in 2025 and earning a place as one of the top five shopping centres in the North East in the Trevor Wood 2026 Shopping Guide.
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