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Sports bars in Sunderland
10 hand-picked bars4.3 avg · 10k reviewsUpdated 2026

The 10 Best Sports Bars in Sunderland

Sunderland is not just about football; it's a vibrant city with a lively sports bar scene perfect for fans. Whether you’re here for a match at the Stadium of Light or just want to soak in the local atmosphere, there are plenty of spots to enjoy a pint and catch the game.

In Sunderland for a game?

Get tickets and a hotel near the stadium in one checkout — then hit these bars before kick-off.

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Local tip — Sunderland's sports bars are mainly clustered around the city center, making it easy for fans to hop from one to another. On game day, arrive early to secure a good spot.

1. The William Jameson

4.0
2,043 Google reviews$$

Best for: classic pub experience

This welcoming pub offers a classic Wetherspoons experience with a unique red and white decor. It's perfect for enjoying a drink in a friendly atmosphere.

First time in Sunderland. Fab pub. Memu what you would expect from a weather spoons. Nice lay out. No walking a million miles to the toilet. Nice staf…— Google review
friendly staffcentral locationclassic pubWetherspoons
View on Google Maps30-32 Fawcett St, Sunniside, Sunderland SR1 1RH, UK

2. Port of Call

4.3
1,237 Google reviews$$

Best for: Sunday roast

Known for its delicious Sunday roasts, Port of Call offers hearty meals and a welcoming vibe. It's a great place to unwind with quality food.

If you're looking for a good Sunday dinner in Sunderland I can would highly recommend port of call I went for the sirloin of beef which came pink, abs…— Google review
hearty mealsfriendly atmospheregreat foodcentral location
View on Google Maps1 Park Ln, Sunderland SR1 3NX, UK

3. Chaplins

4.4
1,013 Google reviews$$

Best for: real ale selection

A bustling venue with a vibrant atmosphere, Chaplins is famous for its extensive ale selection and lively decor. It's a must-visit on match days.

Went here for lunch and found a lovely bar with a busy, vibrant feel and full of atmosphere. Excellent and large selection of ales and a good food men…— Google review
real alelively atmosphereCAMRA Guidematch day
View on Google Maps40 Stockton Rd, Sunderland SR1 3NR, UK

4. Vesta Tilley's

4.4
Irish pub933 Google reviews$

Best for: Irish pub experience

This Irish-themed bar combines old-world charm with modern sports bar vibes, making it a popular spot for a quick drink and lively atmosphere.

Very good bar and can get very busy at times. Staff are courteous and quick to serve you. Its definitely a good place to stop off for a drink.— Google review
Irish themefriendly stafflively atmospherecentral location
View on Google Maps309 High St W, Sunderland SR1 3ET, UK

5. The Ship Isis

4.7
Irish pub764 Google reviews$$

Best for: pre-match drinks

Just a short walk from the railway station, this pub offers a warm welcome with a good selection of cask beers. A perfect pre-match stop.

Superb scran! I jumped at the opportunity to try Nobody out when I saw they were open early for a matchday as they've been on my list for a while. Alt…— Google review
cask beersfriendly staffIrish themecentral location
View on Google Maps26 Silksworth Row, Sunderland SR1 3QJ, UK

6. Gatsby

4.1
Irish pub756 Google reviews$$

Best for: delicious food

Gatsby offers a culinary delight with its standout dishes and affordable prices. A must-visit for foodies looking for a great meal.

The food was out of this world , I'd defo be back when in there , I wasn't mad about having to order at the bar and also the disabled toilets/nappy ch…— Google review
great foodaffordable pricesfriendly atmospherecentral location
View on Google Maps13-14 Derwent St, Sunderland SR1 3NT, UK

7. Barge & Barrel

4.2
Aussie bar753 Google reviews$

Best for: casual drinks

This value-focused bar offers a good range of drinks in a lively setting. It's a great spot for a casual drink with friends.

Apparently, according to Alic, this used to be a Yates where my daughter worked in her student days. Now a Craft Union owned bar. No real ale but othe…— Google review
affordable drinkslively atmospherefriendly staffcentral location
View on Google Maps3-4 Burdon Rd, Sunderland SR1 1QB, UK

8. Canny Lad Sunderland

4.2
Irish pub736 Google reviews$

Best for: cask beer variety

With a variety of cask beers and a welcoming staff, this pub is a great place to enjoy a relaxed drink close to the railway station.

Very good pub less than 10 minutes walk from Sunderland Railway Station. Five cask beers on handpump when I visited including a porter. Very friendly…— Google review
cask beersfriendly staffrelaxed atmospherecentral location
View on Google Maps12-14 Green Terrace, Sunderland SR1 3PZ, UK

9. The Rabbit Sunderland

4.3
Irish pub689 Google reviews$$

Best for: late-night dancing

Known for its lively late-night atmosphere, The Rabbit is ideal for those looking to dance the night away after a game.

Good for a late night dance. Good crowd and atmosphere. Proper party!— Google review
late-nightlively atmospheredancecentral location
View on Google Maps1-3 High St W, Sunderland SR1 3EX, UK

10. The Dun Cow

4.5
Irish pub684 Google reviews$

Best for: historical pub experience

A Grade II listed building with historical charm, The Dun Cow offers a cozy setting with a real fire and a good selection of drinks.

Very good pub about 10 minutes walk from Sunderland Railway Station. Five cask beers on handpump when I visited including a dark ale. Very friendly an…— Google review
historicalcozy atmospherefriendly staffcentral location
View on Google Maps9 High St W, Sunderland SR1 3HA, UK

Watch your home team: Irish, Aussie & expat bars in Sunderland

In Sunderland for the weekend and want to catch your own league with fellow fans? These are the expat bars where the away crowd gathers.

Tickets for upcoming events in Sunderland

Live prices from our inventory — tap an event to see seats.

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Sports bars in Sunderland: FAQ

Where's the best area for sports bars in Sunderland?+

The city center is the hub for sports bars, offering plenty of options.

Where can I watch a popular sport in Sunderland?+

The William Jameson is a great spot to catch a game while enjoying a drink.

Are there Irish or expat pubs to watch my home team in Sunderland?+

Yes, Vesta Tilley's and The Ship Isis offer an Irish-themed atmosphere.

Do Sunderland sports bars get busy on game day?+

Yes, they can get quite busy. Arriving early or booking a table is advisable.

Ratings, review counts and photos are sourced from Google. Bar details can change — check opening hours and whether a specific game will be shown before you head out.