Is Sunderland far from Wooler?

It is approximately 80 km away, taking about 90 minutes to drive.

Can I take a train all the way?

No, you must use a bus or taxi to reach the nearest train station from Wooler.

Is the Metro included in train tickets?

No, you need a separate ticket for the Tyne and Wear Metro.

What is the best road route?

The A19 is generally preferred over the A1 for reaching Sunderland from the north.

Are there direct buses?

No, there are no direct bus services from Wooler to Sunderland.

Wooler

Sunderland

Train Driving

Wooler to Sunderland

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Wooler to Sunderland involves navigating south through Northumberland to reach the coastal city of Sunderland. The most direct route is via the A697 and the A1, bypassing Newcastle city center. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Alnmouth and catch a train to Newcastle, then transfer to the Tyne and Wear Metro. Sunderland is famous for its maritime history and the National Glass Centre. This route connects the rural Cheviot Hills to the industrial heritage of the North East coast.

Total Distance: 80 km driving distance, 70 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the A19 is the fastest route, usually taking 95 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective method for groups, while the bus-train combination is best for solo travelers.

Compare Wooler to Sunderland Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 15 mins	1 hour 35 mins
Avg Price	30-50 GBP	18 GBP in fuel
Operator	LNER and Metro	N/A
Route	Bus to Alnmouth, train to Newcastle, Metro to Sunderland.	A697 to Morpeth, A1 to A19, then A19 to Sunderland.
Tip	The Metro is the most efficient way to travel from Newcastle Central to Sunderland city center.	The A19 is often faster than the A1 when approaching Sunderland from the north.

Travel Tips

Metro Tickets
Purchase a DaySaver ticket for the Tyne and Wear Metro to save money on multiple journeys.
A19 Traffic
Check for roadworks on the A19, as it is a major artery frequently undergoing maintenance.
Train Transfers
Allow at least 20 minutes for your transfer at Newcastle Central Station.
Coastal Weather
Sunderland can be windy; bring a windproof jacket even in summer.
Parking
Use the St Mary's car park in Sunderland for easy access to the city center.

Safety Tips

Driving
The A19 has high-speed sections; maintain a safe distance from heavy goods vehicles.
Public Transport
Keep your ticket visible when traveling on the Metro for inspection.
Night Safety
Stick to well-lit areas in the city center if walking at night.
Emergency
In case of a breakdown on the A19, move to the hard shoulder and call for assistance.