Roker Pier

About:

Roker Pier is a striking and historic landmark on the Sunderland coastline, curving gracefully out into the North Sea and offering panoramic views of the rugged shoreline and open water. Completed in 1903 after over two decades of construction, the pier was designed to protect the mouth of the River Wear and provide safe harbour access for ships. It remains an impressive feat of Victorian engineering, built from granite-faced concrete blocks and crowned by an elegant red-and-white lighthouse at its tip.

The lighthouse, which stands 23 metres tall, was powered originally by gas and later electricity, and has guided seafarers for over a century. Recently restored, it occasionally opens to the public for guided tours, offering a glimpse into Sunderland’s maritime heritage and spectacular views from the lantern room.

A walk along Roker Pier is a favourite activity for locals and visitors alike. It stretches out for nearly 600 metres, and when fully open, allows you to walk right up to the base of the lighthouse. The path is popular for fishing, photography, or simply enjoying the sea breeze and sound of crashing waves. Nearby Roker Beach and its promenade add to the appeal, with cafés, rock pools, and golden sands providing a perfect setting for a day by the sea.

Roker Pier is more than just a breakwater—it’s a symbol of Sunderland’s seafaring past and a beautifully preserved piece of coastal history, blending dramatic natural scenery with Victorian craftsmanship.