Marsden Rock is a rock in Tyne and Wear, North East England, situated in Marsden, South Shields. It is overlooked by the Marsden Grotto. The rock is a 90 feet (27 m) sea stack of Magnesian Limestone which lies approximately 300 feet (91 m) off the main cliff face. It was formerly known for its naturally-formed arch. The arch collapsed in 1996 following a winter of storms creating two separate stacks. The smaller of the two was demolished in 1997 due to safety concerns. The remaining stack is reachable on foot during low tide but is completely surrounded by water at high tide. The cliffs surrounding Marsden Rock are an important breeding ground for seabirds and colonies can often be seen on top of the rock itself, including kittiwakes, herring gulls, and razorbills.
Marsden Rock in 2006
Marsden Rock in 1990. The arch was formed by erosion of the limestone rock by waves and weather.
Marsden Rock (left) was once part of the main cliff, but became separated over time due to the erosion of less-resistant stone.
Picture taken in 2006 of a smaller arch which has been carved out of the remaining magnesian limestone stack.
Marsden is located on the outskirts of the seaside town South Shields, North East England, located on the North Sea coast. It lies within historic County Durham.
Marsden Bay, looking south east towards Souter Lighthouse, Marsden Rock is on the left
The Lot's wife sea-stack, Marsden Bay, in N.E.England.
Marsden Grotto at the foot of the cliff (accessed via the lift tower).
