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The limestone cliff formations dominate the area from Whitburn through  Marsden , all the way to  the mouth of the river Tyne at South Shields. They are most noteable at Marsden where posing out of the sea is Marsden Rock. The isolated stack, which is now considerably smaller since the arch collapse  can be accessed at low tide. It is a natural refuge for Cormorants, Kittiwakes and Fulmars. The closest access to the rock is via  steps at the side of the Marsden Grotto Pub and restaurant.

The Grotto

The history of the pub began in 1782, when an Allendale lead miner nicknamed “Jack the Blaster” came to work at the limestone quarries at Marsden. He blasted the caves to a size that he could make a home of them for himself and family. Being a hospitable guy his home developed into the Grotto Inn. Today, the “Grotto” has additional access to it via a lift from the top of the cliffs.