Sunderland Minster and Churches

(Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, England, UK)

Numerous historic churches add much character to the city, with the Minster Church of St. Michaels and All Angels playing an important part when Sunderland achieved its city status. One of the most historic and beautiful churches within the city is without question the Holy Trinity, which was built in 1719 and is now a Grade 1-listed building.

Located in Sunderland's seaside suburb of Roker, St. Andrew's Church is regarded to be of national importance and amongst the finest churches built in England during the early 20th century. The elegant architecture of St. Andrew's Church is certainly its main draw card for tourists and comprises a nave with five bays, a long single span roof, imposing arches and a limestone facade.

Holy Trinity Church

Address: Church Street East, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR1 2BE, England, UK
Currently owned by the charity organisation known as the 'Churches Conservation Trust', the Holy Trinity no longer operates as a place of worship and was closed in 1988, due to significant restoration costs that could not be funded at that stage. Each year a number of events take place here, such as the Heritage Open Days each September, and the doors are opened once again.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

St. Andrew's Church

Address: Talbot Road, Roker, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR6 9PT, England, UK
Tel: +44 0191 516 0135
Many visitors to St. Andrew's are surprised to learn that the church has actually built around a hidden central reinforced concrete structure, which was chosen to reduce escalating costs. Visitors should look out for the painted sanctuary ceiling, which depicts the actual creation of both the sun and the stars. There are also two magnificent stained-glass windows, which flood the church with coloured beams of light.
Open hours: daily, Sunday worship hours
Admission: free, donations welcomed

Sunderland Minster Church of St. Michaels and All Angels

Address: High Street West, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR1 3ET, England, UK
Tel: +44 0191 565 4066
Officially named as the Sunderland Minster Church of St. Michaels and All Angels in 2007, this important city landmark is often simply abbreviated as the Minster and lies in the city centre, close to Crowtree Road. Founded in the middle of the 10th-century, the Minster needed to be almost completely rebuilt in the early part of the 20th century, as the result of substantial colliery subsidence. However, the architecture has been sympathetically reconstructed and as a result, the church appears much older. Inside, the Tower Cafe is a useful place for a cup of tea and a cake, while the gift shop sells a variety of fair-trade products.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - 09:00 to 15:00, Sunday worship hours
Admission: free, donations welcomed

St. Nicholas's Church

Address: Queen Alexandra Road, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR3 1XQ, England, UK
Tel: +44 0191 520 2127
An attractive parish church completed in 1939, St. Nicholas's Church stands in the city centre, where it has become known for its admirable collection of stained-glass windows, which number 46 in total. These exceptional windows were designed by prolific British stained-glass artist Leonard Evetts and made in nearby Hartley Woods. Parking is available onsite, although spaces are rather limited.
Open hours: daily, Sunday worship hours
Admission: free, donations welcomed

St. Peter's Church

Address: St. Peter's Way, Monkwearmouth, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR6 ODY, England, UK
Tel: +44 0191 516 0135
The ancient Church of St. Peter is one of England's oldest stone churches and was built as long ago as the 7th century, with both the west wall, porch and the tower originating from Anglo-Saxon times, although remaining features date from the 14th century. Archaeological excavations here have unearthed many fascinating artefacts and treasures, including some of England's most historic stained glass, which now form a unique and extensive collection.
Open hours: daily, Sunday worship hours
Admission: free, donations welcomed