On the South Shields coastline, The Grotto is a hotel with sea views and a lift down to the beach, right by local attractions.
Photos
Photos via Google
About The Grotto
South Shields' coastline is the setting for The Grotto, a hotel built into the cliffside with views out over the sea and direct lift access down to the beach below. It's a distinctive spot, with an atmosphere that owes much to its unusual position above the shore.
Rooms come with en-suite bathrooms and drinks available on request, and the hotel runs a 24 hour reception so arrivals are never a problem. There's a restaurant and bar on site serving breakfast and meals through the day, including fish and chips, with kids' meals available too, though some find the food pricier than expected. Staff are attentive and quick to help with whatever guests need.
No parking is available at the property, so those driving should plan accordingly. The surrounding area has plenty to fill the time, with a golf course, fishing, pubs, bars and restaurants all nearby, along with entertainment options for evenings out. The lift to the beach remains one of the most useful features, putting the sand and sea within easy reach.
Reception hours
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What guests say
The Grotto is a lovely restaurant by the coast, accessed through a lift. The food was lovely, menu mostly seafood options. The outdoor seating is lovely and offers a way onto the beach so you can walk along it. Dog-friendly - there’s loads! Also can stay in their hotels on site.
2 months ago · via Google
I'd love to give 5 stars but it falls short, but only just. A beautiful location, unique and very quirky. The views are absolutely stunning whatever the weather. The rooms are OK. Possibly on the tacky side of class but well presented. Some minor decorative renovations are required to bring it up to what you pay and some attention needed around the small complex. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay and wouldn't want to put anyone off staying here
a month ago · via Google
Only attended the cafe/restaurant not the hotel. Only ordered side dishes and coffee as they had no affordable lunch options. Got a tub of takeaway ice cream to walk across very nice beach. Lots of birds around :)
a month ago · via Google
We paid £109 for an overnight stay for 2 people which included breakfast and for the price it was exceptional. Staying in a cave with your room practically on the beach was so special. The building is just magic and the team really went out of their way to make sure we were happy and well looked after. We also ate in the restaurant, 2 courses each and 2 rounds of alcoholic drinks for under £100. The food was good, the atmosphere in the restaurant would have been better with more people but still a special experience. As other reviews have aid there is a problem with standards of cleanliness. The bath wasn't clean in the room and the table wasn't clean in the restaurant which considering there were only 4 other tables dining there really isn't an excuse for. The breakfast was basic but for the price was more than sufficient, it would have been good to have a fresher option than pastry, maybe yoghurt or some fruit. When you think about the experience you get for the price it is excellent. Just don't go in expecting the Ritz and you will be happy - just like we were :)
8 months ago · via Google
Visitors say this unique place offers stunning sea views and a memorable atmosphere, with some enjoying delicious food like fish and chips. They also highlight the friendly and attentive staff, and the convenient lift access to the beach.
Some reviews mention the food can be overpriced.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Coast Road, South Shields, NE34 7BS Get directions
- Property type
- Hotel
- Location
- Coast Road, South Shields
- Good for children
- Yes
- Good for groups
- Yes
- Booking required
- Yes
- Destination
- South Shields