With Norman cellars dating back to the 12th century and secret passageways in some of its rooms, this inn offers historic accommodation in Rye. It has a huge open log fireplace in the bar, and an award-winning restaurant.
Rebuilt in 1420, The Mermaid Inn has been visited by Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother and Prince Edward, as well as celebrities and artists. It retains many beautiful, traditional features, including a secret stairway hidden behind a bookcase.
The restaurant has been awarded two AA Rosettes for its fine French and British cuisine. The lounge bar was once frequented by local smugglers, and has a large wooden beam supported by stone pillars.
Each room at The Mermaid has charming features, like wooden panelling or carved beds. Rooms all feature a TV and en suite bathroom, and some have picturesque views over Rye.
Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.7 for a two-person trip.
Continental, Full English/Irish, Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free
Free private parking available at the hotel
Guest reviews
Categories:
Staff
9.5
Facilities
8.6
Cleanliness
9.0
Comfort
8.9
Value for money
8.3
Location
9.8
Free WiFi
8.9
Select topics to read reviews:
Guests who stayed here loved
A
Annalisa
United Kingdom
“This place is steeped in history it’s like stepping back in time
Lovely breakfast”
J
Jill
United Kingdom
“Loved the position , near to everything which was good for us as we didn’t have a car. Staff were very friendly and helpful.
Delicious food. Loved all the beams and creaking, sloping floorboards”
Ashok
United Kingdom
“The location was excellent in the centre of Rye. The entire experience from check-in to check-out was exceptionally smooth.”
D
Denise
United Kingdom
“We had an amazing and very atmospheric stay, we loved the bar and how friendly everybody was, even the other guests were chatty and the whole place has a calm and friendly atmosphere about it”
N
Nina
United Kingdom
“Beautiful hotel with a warm inviting atmosphere. The staff are lovely and friendly. Visiting in the few days before Christmas was a treat and the hotel looked great with it's decorations. We had a meal in the restaurant and it was absolutely...”
Y
Yu
Japan
“If you would like to stay, no, live in a late-medieval taste, choosing Mermaid Inn must be one of the best choice. Entrance, reception, restaurant, bar, stairway and room... everything seems to be medieval! Receptionists and waiters are full of...”
D
Deryn
United Kingdom
“Wow ! Took my wife for her 60th birthday . Her mum always wanted to stay there , but unfortunately she never got to experience it ! Very emotional for my wife , but we loved everything about this amazing hotel and it staff . Lovely restaurant and...”
D
Dominic
United Kingdom
“We have stayed at the Mermaid before and have always enjoyed it.”
D
Debby
United Kingdom
“The Mermaid is a wonderful hotel…..it is a privilege to stay there as there is so much atmosphere and history. The location is absolutely perfect for Rye. The staff are very helpful and friendly especially the woman who was on reception ….lovely...”
David
United Kingdom
“This place is an experience you must do. Building is incredible. Fixtures, fittings, fireplace, decorations, panelling, beams all a pleasure to see. Staff and service very good. Food, drinks all top quality.
We did experience the ghostly presence.”
Availability
Select dates to see this property's availability and prices
Mermaid Inn takes special requests - add in the next step!
Check-in
From 14:00
Check-out
Until 11:00
Cancellation/ prepayment
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check the conditions of your required option.
Children and beds
Child policies
Children of any age are welcome.
To see correct prices and occupancy information, please add the number of children in your group and their ages to your search.
Cot and extra bed policies
0 - 1 year
Extra bed upon request
Free
Cot upon request
Free
2 - 5 years
Extra bed upon request
Free
6 - 12 years
Extra bed upon request
£30 per child, per night
13 - 17 years
Extra bed upon request
£60 per child, per night
Prices for cots and extra beds are not included in the total price, and will have to be paid for separately during your stay.
The number of extra beds and cots allowed is dependent on the option you choose. Please check your selected option for more information.
All cots and extra beds are subject to availability.
Age restriction
The minimum age for check-in is 18
Pets
Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable.
Groups
When booking more than 4 rooms, different policies and additional supplements may apply.
Cards accepted at this hotel
Cash is not accepted
The fine print
Need-to-know information for guests at this property
Please note that pets are not permitted in the lounge, bar and restaurant areas of the property.
Guests under the age of 18 can only check in with a parent or official guardian.
In response to Coronavirus (COVID-19), additional safety and sanitation measures are in effect at this property.
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