Sunderland beaches have been recognised among the best in the country after Roker and Seaburn both received the 2026 Seaside Awards from the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy. The awards highlight the high quality, cleanliness, and effective management of the city’s coastal sites, which are preparing for an influx of summer visitors.
In addition to the Seaside Award, Roker Beach has earned the prestigious Blue Flag award for 2026. This international recognition serves as a symbol of the highest standards in water quality and visitor facilities. Across the country, 128 sites were honoured this year, with 63 achieving Blue Flag status and 106 receiving Seaside Awards.
Sunderland City Council Director of City Services Marc Morley welcomed the news, stating that the flags demonstrate to visitors that the seafront is safe, clean, and well-managed. He attributed the success to the hard work of council teams and the ongoing cooperation of residents and visitors who help maintain the coastline.
To support beachgoers this summer, Royal National Lifeboat Institution lifeguards will be stationed at Seaburn, Roker, and Cat and Dog beaches from Saturday 23 May 2026 until early September. The teams will be on duty daily between 10am and 6pm to ensure public safety.
The city’s coastal appeal is further supported by the recent reopening of the historic Roker Pier, which returned to service in 2025 following complex repairs after damage from a 2023 storm. Visitors to the Roker area can also find new hospitality venues now open, including Namaste, Vallely’s, Boca Chica, and Elephant Rock, with additional options expected to open throughout the summer season.
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