Sunderland’s got more than seafronts and football — it’s also one of the North East’s best-kept secrets for a cracking Halloween night. From close-knit estates where neighbours team up to create pumpkin trails, to leafy avenues glowing with spooky lights and fog machines, Sunderland’s trick-or-treat game is seriously strong.
Whether you're venturing out with toddlers for an early loop or prepping older kids to hunt down the best-decorated houses in town, these Sunderland neighbourhoods have everything you need for a safe, festive, and sugar-packed night.
Planning your route? Start with The Ultimate Guide to Trick or Treating in 2025 for tips on timing, safety, and getting the most out of the Trick or Treat Map.
Best Places to Trick or Treat in Sunderland (2025)
🎃 1. Ashbrooke
Ashbrooke is one of Sunderland’s most charming areas — and it comes alive on Halloween. The wide, tree-lined streets and grand Victorian homes give the whole neighbourhood a slightly gothic, magical feel that fits the season perfectly. Start around West Lawn, Queen Alexandra Road, and Ashbrooke Range, where locals go the extra mile with lights, pumpkins, and clever themed setups.
You’ll often spot window scenes turned into haunted portraits, fog creeping across gardens, and even classical music drifting from porches to set the mood. Some families run mini photo booths, scavenger hunts, or games like “pick a pumpkin” for kids to win extra sweets.
Ashbrooke is especially great for families with kids of all ages. It’s quiet enough for little ones but rich in detail for older trick-or-treaters who love a proper Halloween atmosphere. Many homes in the area use the Trick or Treat Map too, making it easy to plan your loop.
🎃 2. Fulwell
Head north towards Fulwell for another Halloween hotspot. This family-friendly area near Seaburn beach is packed with semi-detached houses and cul-de-sacs that lend themselves perfectly to a safe, walkable route. Look for high activity around Fulwell Road, Dene Lane, and the streets near the Metro station.
The neighbourhood is known for its welcoming vibe — residents often sit on porches to greet trick-or-treaters, and many go above and beyond with decorated windows, animatronic skeletons, or glowing pathway lights. Some streets even organise informal “pumpkin parades” where kids follow themed decorations house to house.
Because Fulwell is close to the seafront, the Halloween air often comes with a breeze — so wrap up warm and enjoy the fresh air as you make your way from house to house. Many locals mark their participation on the Trick or Treat Map, so it’s a good idea to check before setting out.
🎃 3. Barnes
Barnes might not get as much buzz as Ashbrooke, but it absolutely delivers on Halloween night. Residential streets like Grindon Crescent, Vicarage Close, and Tunstall Terrace often light up with lanterns and spiderwebs from early evening. You’ll find a mix of traditional setups — carved pumpkins and witch hats — and more creative takes, like ghost scavenger hunts or glow-stick stations.
Families here tend to get really involved, sharing tips and photos in local Facebook groups and school chats. There’s often a “best house” race among neighbours, with some going all out with garden displays and sound effects.
What makes Barnes stand out is its warm community feel. It’s not about quantity — it’s about quality. Kids are usually greeted with a smile and a handful of sweets, and many houses include allergy-friendly or non-food options, too. Use the Trick or Treat Map to track the best stops in real-time.
🎃 4. Roker
For a Halloween night with a sea breeze, Roker is a standout. With its mix of traditional houses and seaside charm, Roker offers a scenic and spirited trick-or-treat experience. Areas like Roker Park Road, Park Parade, and Seafield Terrace are local favourites, often lined with glowing pumpkins and hanging ghosts.
It’s a popular route for families with younger kids, thanks to its relatively quiet streets and welcoming residents. The houses are close together, so even small legs can rack up a good stash of sweets without a long walk. Some streets even create “spooky stations” with music and fog — perfect for a quick photo stop.
Plus, with Roker Park nearby, families sometimes start their Halloween with a late afternoon walk or a playground stop before heading off for sweets. If you time it just right, you’ll catch a dreamy sunset over the sea — Halloween magic at its finest.
🎃 5. Tunstall
Tunstall brings solid suburban energy to Halloween — reliable, friendly, and full of fun. Streets like Ennerdale and Springwell Road tend to go big, with families decorating early and kids pouring through in waves once it hits 5:30 PM.
One of the things that makes Tunstall special is how many households get involved. You’ll often find entire crescents where nearly every house is decorated and participating. From inflatable black cats and cackling witches to sweets handed out with spooky trivia questions, there’s something new at every turn.
The area is also well-lit and relatively flat, making it a great choice for younger children or parents with prams. Check the Trick or Treat Map before heading out to avoid backtracking and catch the best stops along the way.
🎃 6. High Barnes
Adjacent to Barnes proper, High Barnes offers the same community feel with even more Halloween energy. Look out for big displays on Chester Road, Allendale Road, and Cleveland Road. It’s a popular area with families who have school-age kids, and participation tends to be very high.
Expect coordinated window displays, motion-triggered sound effects, and friendly competition over who can put on the most impressive spooky show. Many streets here also have well-maintained pavements and good lighting, making the experience both magical and manageable.
What’s more, residents are thoughtful — some homes offer nut-free or vegan treat options, while others hand out stickers or small toys instead of sweets. If you’re out with a mixed-age group or kids with allergies, this area is a standout.
🎃 7. Mill Hill & Hylton Castle
For those living in the west of the city, Mill Hill and the Hylton Castle estate are top picks. These neighbourhoods often go all out — and not just with decorations. Trick-or-treating here often comes with atmosphere: spooky music, community-organised trails, and streets glowing with purple and orange lights.
Try spots like Cheadle Road, Craigshaw Square, and North Hylton Road, where residents often coordinate via WhatsApp groups or post their stops on the Trick or Treat Map. Homes here often welcome trick-or-treaters with clever themes — graveyard setups, “mad scientist” labs, or even pirate ships on front lawns.
It’s especially fun later in the evening when lights pop against the dark, and you get that proper “Halloween night” feel. While it’s a bit further out for central families, it’s well worth the visit for anyone looking for serious effort and a generous candy haul.
🎃 8. Chapelgarth & Doxford Park
What sets this area apart is how well-organised it is. Families often use printed signs, pumpkin stickers, or glow sticks to mark participating houses — especially helpful for younger kids who are still figuring out where to knock. The atmosphere is festive but relaxed, and the streets are generally flat and easy to navigate.
Many parents report that Chapelgarth is their go-to for first-time trick-or-treaters, thanks to the neighbourly vibe and the thoughtful approach to safety and inclusivity. As always, check the Trick or Treat Map to see which houses are taking part — and don’t be surprised if you see a few garden skeletons waving as you go past!
🎃 9. Ryhope
Looking for a quieter, coastal Halloween stroll? Ryhope’s got you. This suburb to the southeast of the city centre is full of tucked-away streets, generous neighbours, and beautiful sea air. Look out for trick-or-treat activity around Stockton Road, Langdale Road, and Helmsdale Road.
While Ryhope tends to be a little more under the radar than spots like Fulwell or Ashbrooke, that can be a blessing — fewer crowds mean more thoughtful interactions, more time to admire costumes, and less pressure on the little ones. Many families sit outside with blankets and fairy lights, creating mini Halloween lounges where kids are warmly welcomed.
It’s also not uncommon for residents to hand out hot drinks to grown-ups, or to offer trick-or-treating “lanes” marked by balloons or candles in jars. It’s a lovely place to unwind and still come home with a full bucket of treats.
🎃 10. Silksworth
Rounding out the list, Silksworth brings big community energy and even bigger Halloween ambition. The area around Premier Road, North Street, and Tunstall Village Road sees strong participation every year, with many families planning their routes weeks in advance.
What’s great about Silksworth is how creative it gets. One year, a local family turned their driveway into a working “candy graveyard,” complete with tombstones labelled with sweet types and a skeleton “guard” handing out bags of loot. Others set up spooky games like bean bag tosses or a lucky dip box for kids to try before collecting their sweets.
With wide pavements and a supportive community feel, Silksworth is an excellent all-rounder. Whether you’re trick-or-treating with toddlers in costume for the first time, or managing a group of excited 10-year-olds on the hunt for the best house, this neighbourhood delivers the fun — and then some.
📍Use the Trick or Treat Map
Sunderland’s Halloween magic is scattered across different corners of the city — and the Trick or Treat Map helps you make the most of it. Use the map to:
📍 See which homes are handing out sweets
⭐ Filter for allergy-friendly stops, non-food treats, or standout displays
🗺️ Save your favourite spots for next year
✨ Send thank-you messages to homes that went above and beyond
Related: How to Use the Trick or Treat Map
🗣️ What Locals Say:
“Ashbrooke is our Halloween tradition — the houses are gorgeous, the decorations are epic, and the kids love it. We make a night of it!” — Jade L., Sunderland mum of three
“We were blown away by the effort in Tunstall last year. Everyone got involved and the decorations were incredible — there was even a fog machine!” — Dave P., local dad
“Roker is just beautiful on Halloween. We go early, do a full loop, and finish by the park. It’s our family favourite.” — Saira B., parent of two
👻 FAQ: Trick-or-Treating in Sunderland
When does trick-or-treating start in Sunderland?
Most families head out between 5:30 and 6:00 PM. Younger kids are usually done by 7:00 PM, while older children may continue until 8:30.
Is trick-or-treating safe in Sunderland?
Yes — especially in residential areas like Fulwell, Barnes, and Ashbrooke. Stick to well-lit streets, stay on pavements, and travel in groups.
How can I tell if a house is giving out sweets?
Look for pumpkins, fairy lights, or Halloween decorations. Many Sunderland households also use the Trick or Treat Map to let people know they’re in.
What should kids bring?
A treat bag or bucket, a torch or glow stick, warm layers, and comfortable shoes. October in Sunderland can be chilly, especially near the coast.
Any Halloween safety advice?
Absolutely - stay on pavements, cross safely and always go in a group. Costumes should be visible, flame resistant and easy to move in. The National Safety Council has great tips too.
🎃 You Might Also Like:
The Ultimate Guide to Trick or Treating in 2025
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