The Grotto
Legendary hotel, beach bar and seafood restaurant in Marsden, South Shields.
About the Grotto
In 1782 Jack ‘the Blaster’ Bates and his wife Jessie used dynamite from a local quarry to blast a large cave into the the side of this coastal cliff at Marsden Bay in South Shields creating themselves a rent-free home on the beach. Before long Jack became involved with smuggling activities, allowing smugglers to hide contraband cargo from abroad in the coastal caves. The Grotto exchanged hands many times and was gradually developed into an Inn with several rooms through the 19th Century. Its notorious and often criminal history forms the basis of several popular legends and ghost stories including that of Jack the Jibber, a smuggler who was reputedly murdered by his fellow criminals after selling information to HM Customs. It is said that he was hung in a barrel in a cave close to the present lift shaft and left to starve.
Dog friendly
Our beach is the perfect spot for walking your dog and they’re more than welcome inside the Grotto too.
Parking
Parking is available at the entrance for £5 (coins only).
Lift
Our lift is open daily from 8am – 10pm. Latest check-in time is 9pm.
WiFi
Due to the cliff location there is no mobile phone reception at the Grotto, but we do offer Starlink wifi to our room guests.
Accessibility
Unfortunately due to the age, location and the design of the buildings for use of the disabled room situated on the first floor, Individuals must be able to get down a spiral stair case in case of emergency.
Visit the Grotto
Drop in for a coffee, book in for dinner, or spend the night in one of our cave rooms.
Our rooms
Perched high within the historic cliffs of Marsden Bay, The Grotto’s 10 boutique hotel rooms offer a truly unforgettable coastal stay. Each room looks directly out over Marsden Rock and the North Sea, with sweeping sea views that change with the light, weather, and tides. Set above our bar and restaurant, the rooms combine dramatic natural surroundings with comfort and character, creating a peaceful retreat unlike anywhere else on the coast.
Weddings
Truly unique and unlike any other venue, The Grotto offers an unforgettable wedding setting.
Weddings are available from October to April, with our licensed cave providing a one-of-a-kind ceremony space.
Our talented chefs will create exceptional food, while our dedicated Wedding Coordinator supports you from your first enquiry through to the final moments of your big day. Stacey and her team will ensure drinks are flowing and your guests are looked after throughout.
With on-site bedrooms for overnight stays and a stunning backdrop for photographs, everything is in place for a perfect celebration.
For more information, contact our Wedding Team at eventsgrotto@gmail.com
Food
Set within the historic caves of Marsden Bay, The Grotto Cave Seafood Restaurant offers a truly unique coastal dining experience. Open daily from noon to 9pm, we serve fresh, expertly prepared seafood in a dramatic setting overlooking the North Sea.
From classic fish & chips to indulgent seafood and grill dishes, our menu celebrates the best of the coast, perfect for relaxed lunches, evening meals, and special occasions by the sea.
