England, United Kingdom
New hotels in Sunderland
A former shipbuilding city on the Wear in North East England, home to Sunderland AFC's Stadium of Light, getting a new Hilton-flagged hotel near the Northern Spire Bridge.
Now open in Sunderland
No verified openings in Sunderland yet.
Coming soon in Sunderland
Sunderland built ships on the River Wear for the better part of two centuries before its yards closed in the late 20th century; the city has since rebuilt around Nissan's giant car plant, a growing tech and gaming sector, and Sunderland AFC's Stadium of Light. This guide currently tracks one project: Spark by Hilton Sunderland, announced in September 2026.
What to do in Sunderland
A short visit
The National Glass Centre and the Stadium of Light anchor the riverside, a short walk from the Wear's newest crossing, the Northern Spire Bridge, opened in 2018. Sunderland's Roker and Seaburn beaches sit a short bus ride from the city centre for a coastal afternoon.
A longer stay
With more time, Sunderland's rail links put Newcastle and Durham within easy reach, and the coastal path north toward South Shields makes for a longer walk along the North East's Heritage Coast.
Where to stay in Sunderland
Spark by Hilton Sunderland is planned near the Northern Spire Bridge, close to the Stadium of Light. It is one of ten Spark by Hilton hotels Hilton signed with AG Hotels Group in September 2026, bringing the brand's premium-economy format (free hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking) to the city for the first time. No opening date has been confirmed for the individual property yet, beyond the deal's overall 2026-2028 window.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a Hilton hotel in Sunderland?
Not yet: Spark by Hilton Sunderland, announced in September 2026, will be the city's first Hilton-flagged property once it opens, with a date still to be confirmed.
Where is the new Sunderland hotel located?
Near the Northern Spire Bridge over the River Wear, close to the Stadium of Light.
Is Sunderland a good base for match days?
The hotel's planned location near the Stadium of Light would put it within easy reach of Sunderland AFC fixtures once it opens.
What does Spark by Hilton offer?
Hilton's premium-economy format: free hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking, in a smaller, simpler room package than a full-service Hilton hotel.
Guide last updated September 2026.