About this property
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 9.8 for a two-person trip.
Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap
Most popular facilities
- Free parking
- Free WiFi
- Family rooms
- Restaurant
- Non-smoking rooms
- Room service
- Bar
Guest reviews
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Guests who stayed here loved
Ken
United Kingdom“The mermaid is a quirky, interesting place full of different corridors, stairs, doors, and levels. Renovated in 1420 , it feels old with great lounges and dining room. The bedroom was clean and comfortable, and the cooked breakfast was...”- Pamela United Kingdom“Love The Mermaid, exceptional food, the evening meal was the best as ever. Breakfast superb.”
- Christine
New Zealand“Beautiful place with so much character. Staff lovely and helpful, food great and overall a fabulous place to stay. So much history. Will definitely be back.” - Rachel United Kingdom“I have stayed at The Mermaid a few times. Beautiful surroundings, full of character, all staff are friendly and helpful and many have been at The Mermaid for a number of years. Food excellent quality and room as well as all areas of the hotel kept...”
- Elizabeth United Kingdom“The history of the Mermaid is so interesting. The staff were all friendly, welcoming and helpful. The food was fabulous.”
- Lucy United Kingdom“The staff were brilliant, friendly, welcoming, and helpful - nothing was too much for them. My room (Bean) with its four poster single bed was lovely. It was compact, but for a girl on her own, it was perfect. I absolutely loved it. A shower would...”
- Jo
Australia“Great character. Friendly staff. Lovely restaurant with well cooked imaginative food better than might expect in a country town in UK.” - Sue Australia“A heritage building has its challenges of course but we were up for them all! Loved the numerous common areas for interaction with other guests. Staff were very cheerful & pleasant”
- Catherine United Kingdom“Beautiful historic hotel staffed by caring young people who are passionate about providing excellent service. Best breakfast we’ve had in a long time.”
- Natiya United Kingdom“Truly unique building. The staff are very helpful, especially Pat who made us feel very welcome from the moment we drove into the car park. He is funny and very thoughtful as my mother couldn’t walk fast but he was so patient. Thank you very much.”
Hotel surroundings
Restaurants
- Restaurant at The Mermaid Inn
- Open forBreakfast • Lunch • Dinner
- AmbianceTraditional • Romantic
- Dietary optionsVegan • Gluten-free • Dairy-free
House rules
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
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.
The fine print
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.
