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
Categories:
Select topics to read reviews:
Guests who stayed here loved
- Illing
United Kingdom
“Hard to best the character and charm of Mermaid Inn! Comfy and cosy rooms and great beds.” - Stuart
United Arab Emirates
“Had nice stay and the room was fine but the bed is slightly small for 2 but it was a very quaint and historical room. Bar was nice and breakfast was good” - Cathy
United Kingdom
“Location was great, and the character of the place was amazing, given that it was over 600 years old! Very quaint.” - Sam
United Kingdom
“Good location, lovely hotel, near to all the restaurants bars, friendly staff, excellent breakfast” - Lucy
United Kingdom
“The fantastic location, the beautiful old Inn, my comfortable bedroom, the delicious breakfast and dinner and of course the attentive and friendly staff.” - William
United Kingdom
“The history, atmosphere, location, quality, service.” - Tarrago
United Kingdom
“Great location, small room but comfortable and everything you need.” - Michelle
United Kingdom
“Location was excellent. Staff were really helpful and friendly. Overall great” - Nicholas
United Kingdom
“Loved this very unique hotel. Incredibly helpful staff and delicious breakfast.” - Cordrey
United Kingdom
“Breakfast great, atmosphere relaxing, venue / Rye is wonderful”
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.