Sunderland’s Bridges Shopping Centre: Major Christmas Upgrade
Written by Emma Louise Jones on 26th November 2025
The Bridges Shopping Centre in Sunderland has welcomed several new shops and stalls just in time for the Christmas rush.
Since changing ownership in 2024, The Bridges has been getting a steady makeover. Under Evolve Estates, several units have been refreshed and new retailers have opened their doors, giving the centre a livelier feel heading into the festive season.
Centre Director at the Bridges Shopping Centre, Karen Eve, said: “The centre plays a crucial role in Sunderland, supporting local jobs and allowing people to shop, meet up and spend time together. Attracting strong national brands helps keep the centre vibrant and relevant for the local community.”
Recently opened additions include food and gift stalls such as Auntie Anne’s, Subway, Calendar Club, Wool Store, Candy Galore and The Mouse House Cheese Co. The centre has also confirmed that Chopstix, a popular noodle bar, is coming soon — adding another option to Sunderland’s growing food scene.
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Across the city, redevelopment seems to be happening everywhere, from new cafés and restaurants to major infrastructure projects. Now The Bridges is joining that momentum and positioning itself as part of Sunderland’s wider push to become a real destination.
For Christmas, the centre has announced a packed schedule of festive events. Visitors can expect Christmas crafts, story time sessions, “festive mischief,” and of course a magical visit to Santa’s Ice Castle Grotto — complete with a special gift for every child.
The Red Sky Foundation is also hosting its annual indoor Reindeer Dash on 30 November, starting at 8am. Families from across the region will take part in the fun run to raise money for the charity. Alice Conlin, Digital Marketing and Communications Executive at Red Sky Foundation, said the organisation is excited to welcome families again this year. Founder Dr Sergio Petrucci MBE added that the event is “always a brilliant morning of family fun” and a popular early entry in the city’s Christmas calendar.
For the third year in a row, The Bridges has created a winter-wonderland atmosphere throughout the centre, with lights, decorations and the Santa Ice Castle sitting right in the middle of the mall. To support the festive period, the centre is extending its opening hours — staying open until 7pm every Thursday, and offering extra late-night shopping from 15–20 December.
All Images from alice@redskyfoundation.com.
