Marsden Rock

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Map sources for Marsden at grid reference NZ395650

Marsden Rock on the left, after the collapse of the arch

Marsden Rock was a once world-famous rock formation in the North East of England near the town of Marsden. It is owned by the National Trust. The face of the rock was changed forever when the arch finally collapsed in 1996. Prior to this it was the feature included on most postcards and photographs. The rock is still home to sea bird colonies, with thousands of pairs of Kittiwakes, Fulmars, Gulls and Cormorants.

The rock is a 100-foot sea stack of magnesium and limestone which lies approximately 100 yards off the main land of South Shields. In 1803 a flight of steps was constructed up the side of the rock. In 1903 several choirs climbed onto the rock to perform a choral service. In 1911 a large section of the rock collapsed into the sea, leaving an arch similar to Durdle Door. This arch collapsed in 1996, splitting the rock into two separate stacks. In 1997 the smaller stack was declared unsafe and was demolished in the interests of public safety.

It is reachable on foot during low tide, but is completely surrounded by water at high tide. It is overlooked by The Marsden Grotto.