Tyne and Wear

Sunderland History Fair Returns This Weekend with Historical Map Exhibits

By

Karen McGinn
25 May 2026, 9:58 am

The Sunderland History Fair returns to the city on Saturday, 30 May 2026, offering residents a free opportunity to explore local heritage. The event will be held at the Bethany Church complex, also known as Bede Tower, on Burdon Road from 10am until 4pm.

Organised by the Sunderland Heritage Forum and Partnership, the fair is expected to draw significant crowds, following previous events that saw more than 1,500 visitors. The day will be officially opened by the Mayor of Sunderland alongside Horrible Histories author Terry Deary.

Attendees can browse over 70 stalls representing the heritage voluntary sector, the public sector, and commercial organisations. Among the participants is Alan Godfrey Maps, which will host a stall featuring a range of North East maps, including historical Sunderland-specific titles from their Old Ordnance Survey Map series.

Stuart Miller, a spokesperson for the event, confirmed that the fair remains free to enter for all members of the public. The gathering aims to promote the unique history of the city, bringing together a variety of community groups and professional organisations.

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