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
10May2026Select date
Check-out
11May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Hotel Overview and Details

Coast Road, South Shields, United Kingdom, NE34 7BS
-
Next to the beach
Very good
7.7
/10
2.0
/5

Location

The Grotto is situated in South Shields, offering magnificent coastal views. Guests arrive at the hotel via a unique lift that descends from a tower, providing easy access to the establishment below. This distinctive feature sets it apart from traditional hotel entrances and adds to the overall experience.

Dining

The hotel boasts a seafood restaurant known for its local and fresh offerings. This cave restaurant allows guests to enjoy a unique dining experience in a remarkable setting. Menus focus on seafood options, providing an immersive gastronomic journey in the heart of the establishment.

Check-in Details

Check-in takes place daily from 8 AM to 9 PM, ensuring guests have ample time to settle in. The hotel's schedule allows for convenient arrivals, accommodating those enjoying the surrounding area. Guests can explore the site before concluding their day with a late check-in.

Access and Amenities

The Grotto provides access through a thoughtfully designed tower, which enhances guest interaction with their surroundings. The lift's operational hours from 8 AM to 10 PM ensure guests can easily navigate the hotel facilities. This accessibility option caters to individuals of all mobility levels.

Local Attractions

Located within reach of South Shields' coastal attractions, the hotel remains a convenient spot for visitors to explore. Guests may engage with nearby amenities and the beautiful landscape just a short distance from the property. The position provides opportunities to enjoy the seaside environment while relaxing at the hotel.

Highlights

Location: Coastal views in South Shields

Dining: Seafood restaurant in a cave

Access: Unique lift from a tower

Check-in: Daily check-in until 9 PM

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll the picturesque South Shields Foreshore at sunset.
  • Savor the fresh seafood at Colmans Fish and Chips on Ocean Road.
  • Visit the historic Tynemouth Priory for breathtaking coastal views.
  • Explore the vibrant Tynemouth Market every weekend for unique finds.
  • Take a walk along The Leas to see stunning sea views and wildlife.
View all

Choose Your Room Category

The hotel offers a range of accommodations including doubles, family rooms, and suites—plus breakfast, free cancellation, and special rates.
Standard Twin Room Sea View
2 persons
45 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Sea view
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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Room Availability and Pricing Calendar

Find available rooms and check today's best prices!

Facilities

This hotel provides premium amenities for a memorable and relaxed stay
Facilities: Very good
7.7/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • No pets allowed
  • Lift

Dining

  • Bar/ Lounge area

Children

  • Children's menu

Room features

  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities
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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 Grotto
3 minutes' walk
Marsden Grotto features stunning coastal views and a unique cliffside pub. Great for a quick visit and a local drink.
Marsden Beach
Marsden Beach
4 minutes' walk
Marsden Beach offers a scenic shoreline perfect for sunbathing, walks, or picnics. Ideal for relaxation and family fun.
Souter Lighthouse
Souter Lighthouse
16 minutes' walk
Souter Lighthouse boasts historic significance and guided tours. It offers breathtaking views of the coastline.
Camel's Island
Camel's Island
10 minutes' walk
Camel's Island is a natural landmark perfect for nature enthusiasts. Explore its unique biodiversity during low tide.
Water Sports at Marsden Beach
4 minutes' walk
Kayaking and paddleboarding available at Marsden Beach. Rentals are seasonal, perfect for thrill-seekers.
Yoga Classes
10 minutes' drive
Local yoga studios offer relaxing classes. Great for unwinding after a busy day, check schedules for evening sessions.
Golf at Whitburn Golf Club
12 minutes' walk
Whitburn Golf Club provides a scenic course for enthusiasts of all levels. Book tee times in advance.
Herbs And Spice
Herbs And Spice
10 minutes' walk
Casual dining featuring Asian fusion cuisines. Known for its vibrant dishes and warm atmosphere, vegetarian options available.
The Grotto Restaurant
3 minutes' walk
A family-friendly venue known for its fresh seafood and coastal views. Reservations recommended for busy evenings.
The Marsden Grotto Bar
3 minutes' walk
A lively bar with live music and great local ales. Perfect for a fun night out with friends or a casual evening.
South Shields Museum And Art Gallery
South Shields Museum And Art Gallery
45 minutes' walk
Cultural attractions featuring exhibitions and local history. Family-friendly atmosphere with free entry on certain days.
Navigating city
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

Guest Reviews and Hotel Ratings

Honest Guest Feedback Based on Real Stays
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Grotto offers guests a unique experience, with many rooms boasting spectacular sea views and direct access to a private pebble beach perfect for exploring the rocky coastline. Guests rave about the delicious evening meals served, and the provided welcome tray is a nice touch. While some guests have noted that the outside seating area could use some updating, the location is generally considered amazing.
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Review score
Based on 220 verified reviews
7.4/10
Very good
69%
Recommend
Free Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Location
9.4/10
Value for money
7.5/10
Facilities
7.7/10
Pros
Unique location
Friendly staff
Good restaurant
Amazing view
Rock pool
Cons
Small rooms
Dirty carpets
Guest reviews
based on 220 reviews
7.4/10
based on 430 reviews
7.7/10
Sophie from United Kingdom
Couple
Deluxe Double Room Bath
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 18, 2025
9/10

Really good Seaside Stay

beach locationamazing viewgreat staffdated seating area
The location is directly on the beach. I enjoyed amazing views from my room (I even saw dolphins!). Some of the staff were great. I must commend the gentleman who checked me in and served on the first night.
I found the outside seating area somewhat dated. It needs a repaint. I also think the menu is a little pricey for what it offers. The lobster, costing £25, was very small.
Facilities
9/10
The hotel has a unique cliff-side location, offering direct beach access. The rooms are well-kept, clean, and designed for comfort. The restaurant (though I didn't dine there this time) is known for its excellent evening meals.
0 Helpful
|
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olivia from united kingdom
Single
standard king room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed:August 26, 2025
9.0/10

charming seaside stay!

expansive viewhelpful staffclean room
I found the location to be really good. The views were expansive. the staff were helpful and always available when needed. the room was clean, though. The decor simple. Everything was perfectly adequate.
the shower was a bit small, made moving around a little difficult.
Dining
8/10
Breakfast included basic options. Toast was available alongside a small selection of toppings. the restaurant staff were efficient, though. Service at dinner was well-paced. the bar had a reasonable selection of beverages, too.
Rooms
9/10
my room included a comfortable bed and a small seating area near the window! the bathroom was equipped with basic toiletries, though fresh towels were provided daily. the sea view from the room was fine
Location
10/10
The hotel is situated right on the beach. Access is very easy and convenient. the proximity to local shops is a plus. Everything is just a short walk away. public transport links are also easily accessible.
0 Helpful
|
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Questions of the users
About The Grotto
Are there rooms available for guests traveling with dogs?
12 September 2024
Three rooms are designated as dog-friendly. Direct booking is required to ensure the appropriate accommodation is reserved. Thank you.
Can you clarify the bathroom facilities for this room? It mentions a private bathroom but also shared toilets.
08 August 2024
All rooms feature a private ensuite complete with a shower and toilet. Thank you.
Is breakfast included in the stay, especially for the superior room option?
21 October 2024
A full payment is required at the time of booking, and all rooms include a continental breakfast. Thank you.
Is parking available at the property for guests?
15 November 2024
There is an on-site car park available, but charges apply upon arrival. Thank you.
Are pets, specifically dogs, allowed on the premises?
09 December 2024
Dogs are warmly welcomed!
Is it possible for families with children to stay at the hotel?
30 October 2024
Children are definitely welcome, provided they are well-behaved.
What type of dining options are available in the evening?
17 January 2025
A seafood restaurant is available, serving delicious fresh meals until 9 PM.
How accessible is the parking area for disabled guests?
22 February 2025
Parking is available on-site, and the distance to the entrance is manageable for most guests.
Does the hotel feature a lift for guest use?
05 March 2025
Yes, a lift operates daily from 8 AM to 10 PM for easy access to different levels.
What is the process for payments when making a booking?
04 April 2025
All reservations require full payment at the time of booking. Thank you.

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