Theatre that should be enjoyed at maximum volume

A vibrantly colored, graphic illustration depicts several landmarks of Sunderland, England, under a bright blue sky with a subtle stippled texture. In the center, a large, bright yellow teardrop-shaped pin icon points downwards, containing the bold black text "YOU ARE HERE" stacked in three lines. To the left, dominating the foreground, is the Stadium of Light, home to the Sunderland AFC "Blackcats." It's rendered in deep reds and browns with white accents, and the words "STADIUM OF LIGHT" are visible on its exterior. Further left and behind the stadium are two tall, modern buildings: one distinctly purple with horizontal stripes, and the other a teal green. On the right side of the image, is the Sunderland Empire, a prominent orange-brown building with a circular tower and intricate details, reminiscent of a historic market hall or civic building, stands in the midground. In the background, extending across the upper right, is a green bridge with a distinctive arch structure, likely the Wearmouth Bridge. The overall style is reminiscent of a pop art or screen-printed aesthetic, with distinct colour blocking and a slightly distressed texture.

You Are Here: Sunderland

CLICK HERE FOR ‘you are here: SUNDERLAND’ GEO-TAG EXPERIENCE

Geo-Tag Audio Trail Experience

Step into a living scrapbook of audio stories and memories, right here in Sunderland’s city centre. You Are Here is a brand new geo-tag audio trail that transforms familiar streets into a soundscape of local stories, memories, and snatches of conversations. It’s a “choose your own adventure” with sound, revealing untold local stories and inviting you to see Sunderland with fresh eyes, all at your own pace. Wander through the city centre – from Keel Square to the Fire Station & Sunderland Empire, and over to Sunderland Minster – and hear hidden histories and stories from some of the people who call Sunderland home.

Ready to Explore? Ways to Experience the Trail

You Are Here: Sunderland can be enjoyed in a few different ways. For the most interactive adventure, we recommend using the Echoes app on your smartphone. It’s designed to provide a geo-located experience that brings the trail to life as you explore the city. Click on the button below to jump right in.

YOU ARE HERE: GEO-TAG EXPERIENCE

Prefer to listen at your own pace, or from the comfort of home? All the audio is also available right here on our website.

And while you’re here, don’t forget to check out details on our group walks led by a tour guide using silent disco headsets – a fun way to explore the experience with others.

Scroll down this page for a helpful “how-to guide,” plus more about the project, the creative team, and how it all came together.

A vibrantly colored, graphic illustration depicts several landmarks of Sunderland, England, under a bright blue sky with a subtle stippled texture. In the center, a large, bright yellow teardrop-shaped pin icon points downwards, containing the bold black text "YOU ARE HERE" stacked in three lines. To the left, dominating the foreground, is the Stadium of Light, home to the Sunderland AFC "Blackcats." It's rendered in deep reds and browns with white accents, and the words "STADIUM OF LIGHT" are visible on its exterior. Further left and behind the stadium are two tall, modern buildings: one distinctly purple with horizontal stripes, and the other a teal green. On the right side of the image, is the Sunderland Empire, a prominent orange-brown building with a circular tower and intricate details, reminiscent of a historic market hall or civic building, stands in the midground. In the background, extending across the upper right, is a green bridge with a distinctive arch structure, likely the Wearmouth Bridge. The overall style is reminiscent of a pop art or screen-printed aesthetic, with distinct colour blocking and a slightly distressed texture.

Dive into the Full Interactive Experience

For the most immersive adventure, we highly recommend trying the You Are Here geo-tag walk on the Echoes app! You’ll need your smartphone and headphones to unlock this unique soundscape. Simply create a free account within the app to begin your journey.

Click the button below to go straight to the app on your smartphone!

YOU ARE HERE
GEO-TAG EXPERIENCE

Need a little help getting started? Click the button below for our ‘how-to guide’. It’s a handy, step-by-step walkthrough on downloading and using the Echoes app, packed with tips on how to get the most out of your experience.

HOW TO GUIDE

Enjoy Without the App

The Echoes app offers an interactive, geo-located experience, but it’s not the only way to enjoy You Are Here: Sunderland.

Whether you prefer to relax and listen from your favourite comfy spot (grab a cuppa and maybe a classic Sunderland Pink Slice!), or take the audio with you to the streets and explore at your own pace without the need for an app, the audio trail is yours to discover. Simply click on the button below and head to the listed locations and press play when you’re ready.

YOU ARE HERE WEBSITE AUDIO

Happy Exploring and Stay Safe!

As you embark on your audio adventure, please remember to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out for roads, traffic, and any steps or uneven surfaces. Like any exploration, be mindful of your safety and respect all local rules and opening times. You’re heading out on this adventure at your own discretion and risk, so enjoy it responsibly and at your own pace.

About the Project

You Are Here: Sunderland is created by The Six Twenty and funded by Historic England‘s History in the Making grant programme. This new grant programme has been launched to encourage young people to engage with and celebrate their local heritage.

The project is developed in partnership with Sunderland Youth Council and Together for Children Youth and Family Services, and is also supported by Arts Council England.