Culture House: What to expect from Sunderland’s new Culture Hub
Written by Ben Rodgerson on 29th September 2026
Culture House has officially opened in Sunderland’s city centre near Keel Square. The multi-purpose venue features a library, immersion gallery, media studios, event space and many more areas for everyone to enjoy.
Culture House Director, Leanne Littlewood, said: “Culture House is Sunderland’s new cultural and community hub, bringing together a modern library, creative programmes, learning opportunities, digital facilities and spaces for people to meet, work and take part in activities.”
Visitors will be greeted by ‘The Atrium’ in the front room “where creativity meets technology” featuring moving screens. The area will encourage the public to take part in immersive storytelling, create digital art with others or just take a break out of your busy day.
There are many areas for people in the creative industry such as a Media Studio with green screens, perfect for aspiring filmmakers, content creators and photographers a podcasting area, learning spaces that hold a range of activities throughout the year, and finally an Inventors Lab allowing people to develop their technology skills through the use of tools provided in the area.
Children have also been catered for with ‘The Den’, a vibrant creative play space designed for young children to let their imaginations run wild. The area includes a little slide, a range of children’s books and immersive tasks for children to enjoy.
Leanne Littlewood added: “Culture House was developed to provide a modern facility that reflects Sunderland’s ambition as a creative and forward-looking city, while building on the important role libraries and cultural venues play in communities.”
I asked a few people who have visited the Culture House in the past few days about their thoughts on the newest addition to the city centre. Jack Smith said: “It is a great addition to the city, and my kids had a great time.” Stacy Lewis also described it as: “Very welcoming and community focused.”
The Director went on to say: ” Since opening earlier this month, Culture House has already attracted 40,000 visitors and quickly become a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.”
Culture House is officially open now, from 10:00 – 18:00 every day of the week.
