The Mermaid Inn

from £150
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Photo of The Mermaid Inn
Double Room
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Hotel Exterior
Double Room
“Historic inn in the centre of Rye which dates back to the 13th Century. Rooms ooze period charm with carved four poster beds, sloping beamed ceilings and gorgeous original features including a vast fireplace in the bar. Delicious 2 AA Rosette dining. A perfect weekend getaway.”

Hotel review

For an authentic slice of Tudor England, look no further than the Mermaid Inn. Its cellars date back even further, but the main building was constructed in 1420 and all its quirks and little foibles remain today adding character galore - think creaky floorboards, a miriad of staircases (including a hidden one behind the bookcase in Dr Syn's Bedchamber), low beamed ceilings, original wall carvings by fleeing Catholic priests and vast stone fireplaces. The interiors reflect the history with traditional furnishings: carved wooden beds (some four posters), beautiful oakwood panelling and squashy leather sofas in the lounge. The dining's pretty good too. Chef Ben Fisher trained with many Michelin starred establishments and serves a seasonal menu featuring locally sourced produce including Rye Bay Cod and Romney Marsh Lamb. Perfect for a weekend escape from London, or a great base for exploring the wider area.

Sarah Empson
Sarah Empson Review published: 12/03/2024

Recommended for

  • Historic

    • The cellars date from 1156 and the building was rebuilt in 1420. It's a genuine piece of Tudor architecture

  • Foodies

    • Head chef Ben Fisher has worked in a wide range of Michelin starred establishments including Tom Aikens in London

  • Restaurant

    • 2 AA Rosette dining featuring local produce, such as Winchelses Beef, Rye Bay Cod and Romney Marsh Lamb.

  • Sit-out Terrace

    • Three patios to choose from

  • Inn

  • Antiques

  • Sights nearby

  • Beach nearby

  • Traditional

  • Charming

  • Family Suites

  • Full of character

Facilities

  • Rooms

    31 rooms in this hotel

  • Restaurant

    2 AA Rosette dining featuring local produce, such as Winchelses Beef, Rye Bay Cod and Romney Marsh Lamb.

  • Bar

    Giant's Fireplace Bar offers a wide range of real ales and a bar menu.

  • Sit-out Terrace

    Three patios to choose from

  • Family Suites

Activities

  • Sights nearby

Map & Location

See what they say

Why do people love staying in your hotel? The Mermaid Inn is a totally unique experience and awash with authentic historic features. The cellars date from 1156, and the building was rebuilt in 1420. It is an unmissable landmark in the centre of Rye. What is there to do in the area? Explore the medieval citadel of Rye, the weald of Sussex or Kent’s Romney Marsh or the varied coastlines of Sussex and Kent. What kind of breakfast do you offer? We offer a choice of a Full English Breakfast, or a Continental Breakfast, with a buffet table for cereals, fruit, yoghurt, pastries and a selection of teas and coffees. Do you offer other meals? And can you recommend good places to eat out locally? The Mermaid Inn is a Two AA Rosette restaurant. The Linen Panelled Restaurant offers modern English and French cuisine. Which are your most popular room types, and why? We offer 31 rooms, which are all different, and totally unique. What facilities do you have for children and can you fit extra beds in your rooms ? We can offer extra beds or cots for children, and we have family rooms which are “fun” in their layout and design. What message would you like to give Hotel Guru readers? The Mermaid Inn is a totally unique experience. The hotel has a wonderful ambience, with friendly attentive staff. Once visited it is never forgotten. It is a siren that keeps calling our guests and visitors back.

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