The massively underrated northeastern port city that is one of the UK’s most unmissable places to visit in 2026

Looking to book a staycation this year? You’ve come to the right place. At the start of 2026, Time Out’s writers and editors clubbed together to round up the UK destinations that are going to be particularly worth visiting in the next 12 months. 

Our list features some long-standing tourist favourites, like Edinburgh for its brand new Cowgate Block Party and the Strand in London for the blockbuster art exhibitions, but there are several underdogs in there too. Derby is worth visiting in 2026 for its flourishing nightlife scene while Stockport is deserving of a trip for its exciting assortment of bars, records shops and indie cafés. Another unsung spot we’d wholeheartedly recommend in 2026? Sunderland.

Several big cultural and sporting events are putting the northeast port city on the map this year. Firstly, there are all the Premier League matches at the Stadium of Light following the Black Cats’ promotion last year (ha’way the lads!). Secondly, one of the UK’s most legendary music festivals, Radio 1 Big Weekend, is taking place at Sunderland’s Herrington Country Park. 

The lineup for the festival, which is happening from May 22 to 24, hasn’t been unveiled yet, but big names are guaranteed. Last year’s event welcomed the likes of Ed Sheeran, Mumford and Sons and Sam Fender, and when the Big Weekend was last in Sunderland 11 years ago, it was headlined by Gwen Stefani, Foo Fighters and The Black Eyed Peas. For another huge gig, Take That will also be stopping by the Stadium of Light in June as part of their mega Circus Live Tour. 

The city has an abundance of excellent stuff to do year-round, too. The recently restored Hylton Castle offers guided tours and interactive exhibits, the dazzling Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art will have shows dedicated Sunderland born artist-photographer Dean Raymond Gooch and modern landscape painting and the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens hosts dozens of wholesome workshops and exhibitions inspired by the natural world.

We also recommend catching a live gig at the Fire Station or Independent, breathing in the sea air on Roker and Seaburn beaches, grabbing brunch at RUHE, and picking up a curried pork pie from Hairy Biker Si King’s Propa Pies. If you happen to be in the city in March, take advantage of Sunderland Restaurant Week, which will see dozens of the city’s best cafes and restaurants offering meals for less.

For making whole weekend of it, book a night or two at the Beach House Boutique Hotel, which overlooks Roker Beach and has its own private stretch of sand. 

Explore the full list of Time Out’s 14 best places to visit in the UK in 2026.