Mermaid Tables – England - Atlas Obscura

Mermaid Tables

These erosion formations on the wave cut platform have a natural explanation. 

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Ravenscar beach (a very loose term in this instance)  is famous for these strange looking erosion features. They are known locally as Mermaid Tables. 

They are caused by a layer of hard limestone capping the underlying shale, protecting the softer material from erosion.

Some  look like trees cut off at the roots and others are a little shorter but most maintain an essentially circular form.

The beach is also known for  some fantastic amonite fossils and at the right time of year you may come across  loads of seal pups on the shore at low tide.

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