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.
“The atmosphere was truely amazing it really was like stepping back in time. The food was outstanding and the staff were lovely.”
Kay
United Kingdom
“It’s really authentic and not just a novelty of being famous in the area! We’ve been twice now and love it! The bar area is super cosy and perfect for a book and a glass of red wine! The staff are very friendly and helpful, too!”
Nichola
United Kingdom
“From start to finish the whole experience was amazing, surrounded by history, knowledgeable staff & a great welcome.”
C
Christopher
United Kingdom
“surprisingly good grub for a hotel. Nice service, in fact brilliant. The room was a bit dark but that because it was very historic, and it was very comfortable.”
Kasia
United Kingdom
“Loved the location and love the history. Staff were so lovely and the breakfast was fabulous”
S
Steppy
United Kingdom
“The place itself the bar with inglenook the whole character”
A
Annmari
United Kingdom
“The overall presentation was great. Right in the heart of Rye.”
Mollie
United Kingdom
“It’s old time feel and location. Also the service and hospitality from the hotel staff was welcoming and friendly!”
L
Lorraine
United Kingdom
“Atmosphere and comfortable, historic surroundings. Friendly and helpful staff. Room had some up dated furnishings. Breakfast was good quality and substantial.”
Emerson
United Kingdom
“Everything, a hotel has wonderful history, well managed and the staff were great. Rye is a great place to visit and this is the best hotel to stay in.”
Select topics to read reviews:
Guests who stayed here loved
S
Stephanie
United Kingdom
“The atmosphere was truely amazing it really was like stepping back in time. The food was outstanding and the staff were lovely.”
Kay
United Kingdom
“It’s really authentic and not just a novelty of being famous in the area! We’ve been twice now and love it! The bar area is super cosy and perfect for a book and a glass of red wine! The staff are very friendly and helpful, too!”
Nichola
United Kingdom
“From start to finish the whole experience was amazing, surrounded by history, knowledgeable staff & a great welcome.”
C
Christopher
United Kingdom
“surprisingly good grub for a hotel. Nice service, in fact brilliant. The room was a bit dark but that because it was very historic, and it was very comfortable.”
Kasia
United Kingdom
“Loved the location and love the history. Staff were so lovely and the breakfast was fabulous”
S
Steppy
United Kingdom
“The place itself the bar with inglenook the whole character”
A
Annmari
United Kingdom
“The overall presentation was great. Right in the heart of Rye.”
Mollie
United Kingdom
“It’s old time feel and location. Also the service and hospitality from the hotel staff was welcoming and friendly!”
L
Lorraine
United Kingdom
“Atmosphere and comfortable, historic surroundings. Friendly and helpful staff. Room had some up dated furnishings. Breakfast was good quality and substantial.”
Emerson
United Kingdom
“Everything, a hotel has wonderful history, well managed and the staff were great. Rye is a great place to visit and this is the best hotel to stay in.”
Hotel surroundings
Restaurants
1 restaurant on site
Restaurant at The Mermaid Inn
Open for
Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner
Ambiance
Traditional • Romantic
Dietary options
Vegan • Gluten-free • Dairy-free
House rules
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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