The Grotto Hotel South Shields Amenities photoThe Grotto Hotel South Shields Beds photoThe Grotto Hotel South Shields Restaurant photo
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From146US$ /night
Check-in
05Jun2026Select date
Check-out
06Jun2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Coast Road, South Shields, United Kingdom, NE34 7BS
-
Close to the beach
Very good
7.8
/10
2.0
/5

4-star unique seafood restaurant hotel in South Shields

Location

The Grotto is situated at Marsden Bay, offering scenic coastal views directly from the property. Guests arrive via a distinctive tower with a lift that transports them down to the public house below. This unique access adds to the charm of the overall experience.

Dining

The Grotto includes a seafood restaurant known for its commitment to local and fresh ingredients. The dining experience is set within an intriguing cave environment. Guests can savor a variety of dishes that highlight the region's culinary offerings.

Facilities

The hotel offers a lift operational daily from 8am to 10pm. This facility enhances accessibility and convenience for all guests. With a latest check-in time set at 9pm, arrivals are efficiently managed.

Activities

Visitors at The Grotto can explore the stunning coastal scenery during their stay. The surrounding location provides ample opportunities for local exploration. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the adjacent natural features of Marsden Bay.

Experience

The Grotto's unique structure and setting offer an experience unlike any conventional hotel. Guests can enjoy a meal while immersed in the ambiance of the cave surroundings. This distinctive dining atmosphere sets The Grotto apart from other establishments.

Highlights

Location: Scenic coastal views at Marsden Bay

Dining: Seafood restaurant serving local and fresh dishes

Facilities: Lift operational daily from 8am to 10pm

Experience: Unique cave dining atmosphere

“The Grotto's location certainly stands out, and its bar and restaurant offer a distinctive atmosphere. However, some reports suggest inconsistencies in service and room upkeep. While aiming for a memorable stay, potential guests should be aware of possible variability in the overall experience.”
Hotel logo
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

The Grotto Hotel 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
45 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Triple Room Shower
2 persons
55 sq. feet 
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Shower
Deluxe Double Room Bath
2 persons
55 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Double Room
2 persons
90 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The Grotto Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Very good
7.7/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • On-site car park
  • No pets allowed
  • Lift

Dining

  • Bar/ Lounge area

Children

  • Children's menu

Room features

  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities
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The Grotto Hotel Location

Coast Road, South Shields, United Kingdom, NE34 7BS
Map view
Coast Road, South Shields, United Kingdom, NE34 7BS
Nearby
Coast Road
The Marsden Grotto
700 ft
Beach
Marsden Rock
200 ft
Beach
Marsden Beach
900 ft
Marsden Bay
1900 ft
Restaurants
Herbs And Spice
1700 ft
71 Lake Avenue
Explore South Shields
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Marsden Rock
Marsden Rock
1 minute walking
A stunning natural formation offering picturesque views and a haven for birdwatchers.
The Marsden Grotto
The Marsden Grotto
3 minutes walking
A unique seaside pub and restaurant built into the cliffs, known for its scenic views and local seafood.
Souter Lighthouse
Souter Lighthouse
16 minutes walking
Historic lighthouse with interactive exhibits, impressive coastal views, and scenic walking trails.
Whitburn Golf Club
Whitburn Golf Club
12 minutes walking
Challenging golf course set amidst beautiful natural scenery, perfect for enthusiasts of all levels.
Marsden Beach Stroll
4 minutes walking
Relaxing beach walk with fantastic views; ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Golf at Whitburn Golf Club
12 minutes walking
A wonderful golfing experience with lush fairways and scenic coastal vistas, suitable for all skill levels.
Sea Kayaking
3 minutes driving
Exciting kayak rentals available at the beach for thrill-seekers wanting to explore the coastline.
Herbs And Spice
Herbs And Spice
10 minutes walking
Cozy eatery offering flavorful Thai and Indian dishes, with vegetarian options available.
The Marsden Grotto
The Marsden Grotto
3 minutes walking
Seaside dining with a focus on local seafood and stunning sea views. Reservations recommended.
The Ocean Beach Pleasure Park
6 minutes driving
An amusement park featuring rides, games, and entertainment suitable for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Live Music at The Customs House
10-minute drive
A vibrant venue hosting regular music events, comedy shows, and theater performances for all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
South Shields6 min  ·  2.4 mi
Airports
Newcastle (NCL)46 min  ·  19.0 mi
Durham Tees Valley (MME)102 min  ·  42.1 mi
Bus
Bus stop20 min  ·  8.2 mi
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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 Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Guests consistently praise the Grotto's amazing location directly on the beach, with rooms offering superb sea views; waking up to the sound of the waves is a common highlight. The evening meals in the restaurant are frequently described as excellent, and some rooms feature bay windows to further enhance the views. While some guests have noted the lack of Wi-Fi and phone signal due to the unique, cave-like structure, the private pebble beach accessible from the hotel is a definite advantage.
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Review score
Based on 542 verified reviews
7.6/10
Very good
68%
Recommend
Free Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Location
9.4/10
Value for money
7.5/10
Facilities
7.7/10
Pros
Sea view
Fantastic food
Helpful manager
Clean room
Ideal location
Cons
Broken shower
Water damage
Guest reviews
based on 542 reviews
7.6/10
based on 421 reviews
7.8/10
john from united kingdom
Single
deluxe double room bath
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: December 12, 2025
9.3/10

nice stay

sea viewsfriendly staffexcellent meal
the location impressed me. sea views are visible from the room. the staff were helpful and friendly. the welcome tray was a nice touch. the evening meal was excellent. i appreciated the sea view.
the elevator stops running between 10 pm and 8 am.
Rooms
9/10
the room size was ample. the beautiful double room has a bath. the decor is beautiful. a welcome tray was available. the view from the room window faces the sea.
Location
10/10
the location offers amazing views. the hotel has a seafront. i explored the rocky beach. the hotel provides direct access to caves. the setting feels surreal.
Service
9/10
the staff were helpful. they aimed to. i received assistance from the team! the staff were kind. the morning team was especially helpful.
0 Helpful
|
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Samantha from United Kingdom
Deluxe Double Room Bath
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: November 01, 2025
8.3/10

Lovely sea views

gorgeous viewhelpful staffrocky beach
the room was beautiful i stayed in the beautiful double room bath and the views from the windows were gorgeous i found the staff really helpful and friendly. the location is lovely with the sea front a real asset and plenty of opportunity for exploring the rocky beach. i liked the sea view.
the gluten free breakfast choices were limited i found only one gluten free option available.
Rooms
9/10
my beautiful double room bath featured ample space including a well maintained bathroom with a shower and bath i appreciated the cleanliness the comfortable bed and the provided amenities like fresh towels.
Dining
8/10
the restaurant offers a range of meals i enjoyed the food that i tried though gluten free options were somewhat restricted. breakfast service starts early which is convenient for early risers and the dining area offers scenic views.
Facilities
8/10
the hotel features a lift for easier access to different floors although it might be unavailable during certain hours. there is direct beach access available i appreciated the unique location within the cliffs and surrounding area.
0 Helpful
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Isaac from United Kingdom
Couple
Standard King Room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: September 26, 2025
8.5/10

amazing coastal getaway

sea viewfriendly manelevator operation
the location was lovely near the sea. the views from the room was amazing, offering panoramic sights. i enjoyed the restaurant service a lot. the young man, who served, was very friendly.
the hotel elevator operation was limited. it shuts down during night. this can create INCONVENIENCE with mobility issues.
Rooms
9/10
my room was nice and CLEAN. the bedroom was very comfortable to rest. the restaurant served excellent meals for dinner, this was an awesome experience.
Facilities
8/10
this hotel offered UNIQUE features on the cliff side, very lovely. the staff offered helpful service, this improved my stay. the helpful staff are very important.
0 Helpful
|
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Questions of the users
About The Grotto
Are any of the accommodations pet-friendly for dogs?
12 November 2024
Three accommodations are available that are dog-friendly, but booking directly is necessary to ensure the correct room is allocated. Thank you.
What does it mean when a room has a private bathroom but mentions a shared toilet?
07 March 2024
Each room features a private en suite with both shower and toilet facilities. Thank you for your inquiry.
Is breakfast included in the room rate?
21 February 2025
Yes, all rooms include a continental breakfast in the room rate. Thank you.
Is parking available for guests, and if so, how is it managed?
17 January 2025
There is onsite parking available, though it incurs a fee to be paid upon arrival. Thank you.
Do you accept well-behaved children at the establishment?
04 April 2024
Yes, children are welcome as long as they are well-behaved and do not cause disturbances.
Is there a seafood dining option available at the hotel?
15 August 2024
A seafood restaurant operates until 9 PM, offering local and fresh cuisine. Thank you.
Is there an elevator for guests to access different levels?
29 June 2024
An elevator is available for guest use, operating daily from 8 AM to 10 PM. Thank you.
Can guests park during their stay?
30 July 2024
Yes, guests can park on site for a fee of £5.00, which covers the entire day.
Do you provide room service to guests?
22 September 2024
Unfortunately, room service is not offered at this hotel.
What is the lift experience like for guests arriving?
18 October 2024
Guests can enjoy a unique lift experience that takes them from the car park down to the restaurant area below. It's quite a memorable arrival!

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05Jun2026Select date
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room