The Grotto - A cave hotel with sea-view rooms and a continental breakfast
The Grotto offers accommodations in a unique cave setting, featuring double and twin rooms with sea views, flat-screen TVs, and tea/coffee makers. Some rooms lack windows due to the cave structure. A continental breakfast is available each morning at The Grotto. The property is located near Marsden Bay, 0.5 km from The Marsden Grotto and 5 km from Arbeia Roman Fort & Museum. A lift operates daily from 8 am to 10 pm for access. The onsite seafood restaurant serves locally sourced dishes. Newcastle International Airport is 22 km away.
Pros
Unique cave setting with direct access to Marsden Bay.
Rooms feature sea views and tea/coffee makers.
Proximity to coastal landmarks like Souter Lighthouse (1 km) and Sandhaven Beach (3 km).
Continental breakfast served daily.
Cons
Some rooms have no windows due to the cave structure.
The lift operates only until 10 pm, limiting late-night access.
“The Grotto wins on location alone; the rooms gaze directly onto Marsden Beach, a view I suspect is worth the price. It's a quirky place, clearly loved by those who return to relive childhood memories of the coast. While breakfast is included, manage expectations-the real draw here is waking to the sound of the waves.”
Luke HarrisonEditor-in-Chief at Hotelewam
Select your room type
The Grotto offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Standard Twin Room Sea View
2 persons
4 m²
2 Single beds
Shower
room details
Triple Room Shower
2 persons
5 m²
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Shower
room details
Deluxe Double Room Bath
2 persons
5 m²
1 Double bed
Bathtub
room details
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Facilities
The Grotto offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Very good
7.9/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Parking
No pets allowed
Lift
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Dining
Bar/ Lounge area
Children
Children's menu
Room features
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities
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The Grotto Location
Coast Road, South Shields, NE34 7BS,
Map view
City landmarks
Lighthouse
Souter Lighthouse
1.3 km
Golf Course
Whitburn Golf Club
930 m
Landmark
Souter Lighthouse and The Leas
1.21 km
Landmark
National Trust
1.31 km
Landmark
Camel's Island
730 m
Landmark
Man Haven Beach
1.12 km
Landmark
Lizard Point
1.28 km
Landmark
Disappearing Gun Turret
2.41 km
Landmark
Whitburn Windmill
2.44 km
Theme Park
Ocean Beach Pleasure Park
3.75 km
Park
Temple Memorial Park
2.88 km
Beach
Sandhaven Beach
3.25 km
Museum
Barracks and Commanding Officer's house
4.55 km
Park
Bents Park
3.52 km
Park
South Marine Park
3.76 km
Landmark
John Simpson Kirkpatrick Memorial Statue
4.02 km
Castle
Tynemouth Priory and Castle
5.22 km
Art object
Admiral Lord Collingwood Monument
5.21 km
Museum
South Shields Museum And Art Gallery
4.21 km
Landmark
Lakeshore Railroad
3.74 km
Landmark
Trow Point Disappearing Gun
3.94 km
Stadium
Sunderland Greyhound Stadium
4.57 km
Park
South and North Marine Parks
4.45 km
Beach
Seaburn Beach
4.32 km
Landmark
The Word, National Centre for the Written Word
4.48 km
Landmark
Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade Museum
4.95 km
Nearby
Coast Road
The Marsden Grotto
200 m
Beach
Marsden Rock
50 m
Beach
Marsden Beach
260 m
Marsden Bay
570 m
Restaurants
Herbs And Spice
490 m
71 Lake Avenue
Explore South Shields
Local Attractions Near The Grotto
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
The Marsden Grotto
3 minutes' walk
A picturesque coastal cave pub with stunning sea views and an inviting atmosphere. Ideal for a drink or meal after a local walk.
Marsden Rock
1 minute' walk
A striking sea stack known for birdwatching and scenic views. Great spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Souter Lighthouse and The Leas
15 minutes' walk
A historic lighthouse with panoramic sea views and guided tours. Perfect for family outings and learning about maritime history.
Camel's Island
10 minutes' walk
A small, scenic island offering tranquility and beautiful coastal walks. Ideal for picnics and enjoying nature.
Surfing at Marsden Beach
4 minutes' walk
Thrilling surfing opportunities at Marsden Beach. Rentals are available nearby; a great spot for adventure seekers.
Relaxation at South Shields Spa
5-minute drive
A tranquil spa offering various treatments and wellness options. Ideal for guests looking to unwind and rejuvenate.
Herbs And Spice
10 minutes' walk
A cozy eatery boasting delicious Indian cuisine with vegetarian options. Casual dining atmosphere, reservations recommended.
The Grotto Cafe
3 minutes' walk
A local favorite for seafood and traditional British dishes. Enjoy great views and a warm ambiance. Dietary choices available.
The Customs House
5-minute drive
A vibrant arts venue offering live music and theater performances. Family-friendly environment with diverse programming.
Sea Road Pub
10 minutes' walk
A lively bar featuring weekly live music and quiz nights. A great spot for socializing with friends after a day of exploration.
Getting around
City Centre
South Shields 6 min · 3.9 km
Airports
Newcastle (NCL) 46 min · 30.5 km
Durham Tees Valley (MME) 102 min · 67.7 km
Bus
Bus stop 20 min · 13.2 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-21:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
No internet access available.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. There are no extra beds provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
9
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about The Grotto from previous guests about their experience.
Breakfast
10.0/10
Cleanliness
8.2/10
Comfort
8.1/10
Facilities
7.9/10
Free Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Location
9.5/10
Paid Wi-Fi
3.4/10
Staff
9.2/10
Value for money
7.7/10
Pros
Amazing views
Comfortable bedrooms
Excellent restaurant
Helpful staff
Lovely breakfast
Cons
Dirty carpets
Noisy environment
Poor cleanliness
Guest reviews
based on 361 reviews
8.1/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About The Grotto
What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Grotto?
Check-in is available from 14:00, and check-out is by 10:30.
How far is The Grotto from Newcastle International Airport?
The Grotto is 26 km from Newcastle International Airport.
What are some nearby attractions to The Grotto?
Nearby attractions include Marsden Rock (1 km), Arbeia Roman Fort & Museum (5 km), and Stadium of Light (9 km).
What is the distance from The Grotto to the nearest beach?
The Grotto is located 3 km from Sandhaven Beach.
What room amenities are available at The Grotto?
Rooms feature sea views, flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, and tea/coffee makers.
Does The Grotto have an on-site restaurant or dining options?
Changing Tides, located 150 m from The Grotto, offers a variety of dishes.
What languages are spoken by the staff at The Grotto?
The staff at The Grotto can communicate in English.
Is there internet access at The Grotto?
Internet access is available throughout The Grotto.
What are the closest public transport options to The Grotto?
The nearest bus stop, Marsden Grotto, is located 0.5 km away.