"Its antiquity: an ancient hostelry dating back to the 1100s beautifully furnished and well maintained, with excellent food and service."
Mary from United Kingdom
read full review
"Dinner was delicious and our room - no 6, the Tudor Rose - was very atmospheric with an exceptionally comfortable bed, beams galore."
Zoe L from United Kingdom
read full review
"The hotel is full of history and character and well worth an explore around."
jek1102 from United Kingdom
read full review
Amenities
The Mermaid Inn boasts an on-site car park accommodating 25 vehicles, enhancing accessibility for guests. The bar offers a vast selection of over 60 gins and an extensive wine list sourced from local vineyards. Guests may also enjoy three terrace areas for outdoor seating in the warmer months.
Rooms
Accommodation consists of 31 distinct rooms, each named after a historical figure connected to the inn and Rye. The second storey rooms feature curved timbers and dormer windows providing a unique view of the citadel. Architectural details include carved beds, Caen stone fireplaces, and secret stairways concealed behind bookcases.
Location
The inn is situated in the medieval citadel of Rye, allowing easy exploration of cobbled streets and nearby independent shops. Guests can start their visits at the Rye Heritage Centre, which features a Sound and Light Show. The train station is a five-minute walk away, connecting travelers to Ashford International and Brighton.
Dining
Guests can dine in the Linen Fold Panelled Restaurant, recognized with 2 AA Rosettes, or opt for the cozy Dr Syn Dining Room for a more intimate experience. Drew King, the Head Chef, focuses on quality seasonal ingredients in every dish. The restaurant provides room service for dinner between 6:30 pm and 9:00 pm, allowing guests to enjoy fine dining in the privacy of their rooms.
Guided Tours
On the last Sunday of each month, owner Judith Blincow offers guided tours of the 600-year-old building, showcasing its rich history. The tour includes visits through The Giants' Fireplace Bar and Dr Syn's Lounge, providing insight into the inn's past. Guests can experience the ambience of living history while learning about the infamous Hawkhurst Gang.
Highlights
Location: Medieval citadel of Rye, cobbled streets and independent shops
Rooms: 31 unique rooms with historical names
Dining: 2 AA Rosette Linen Fold Panelled Restaurant
Unique Offerings: Guided Tours of the 600-year-old building
“The Mermaid Inn stands out as more than just lodging; it's an immersion into Rye's captivating past, complete with ghost stories and Tudor architecture. Its fine dining, backed by two AA Rosettes, underscores a serious commitment to culinary excellence. This is where history meets hospitality in a genuinely memorable way.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels
View all
Select your room type
The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
Double Room
2 persons
110 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Single Room
2 persons
90 sq. feet
1 Single bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Superior Twin Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
room details
Twin Room
2 persons
155 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Heating
Bathtub
room details
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
Show all roomsLess
Room rates & availability calendar
See the best prices and book your dates today!
Amenities & services
Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking
Facilities:
Great
8.6/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
24-hour reception
Pets allowed
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Wind surfing
Hiking
Golf course
Guest Parking
Electric kettle
Services
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink
Dining
In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Dinner
Packed lunches
Special diet menus
Business
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Board games
Children's menu
Spa & Leisure
Live entertainment
Leisure/ TV room
Room features
Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
Carpeted floor
Show more
Dining Onsite
At The Mermaid Inn, guests are invited to experience the culinary delights of the Restaurant at The Mermaid Inn, a charming venue that seamlessly blends traditional ambiance with modern dietary needs. Whether savoring a romantic meal by the Giants Fireplace Bar or enjoying sunshine on the walled patio, every meal is an opportunity to indulge in authentic flavors in a historic setting.
Restaurant at The Mermaid Inn
Traditional British with vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options
Ambiance
Traditional, romantic setting complemented by a cozy warmth
Key Offerings
Exquisite meals inspired by the ancient spice route; signature drinks featuring unique botanicals and handcrafted spiced gins. Savor breakfast, lunch, or dinner under the charm of the 600-year-old inn.
Reservation
Recommended
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mermaid Inn Location
Mermaid Street,
Rye,
United Kingdom,
East Sussex
Map view
Mermaid Street,
Rye,
United Kingdom,
East Sussex
City landmarks
Church
The Church Of Saint Michael's
3800 ft
Nature reserve
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
1.9
mi
Church
St Thomas The Martyr Church
2.0
mi
Landmark
Winchelsea Court Hall Museum
2.0
mi
Church
All Saints Church
2.2
mi
Landmark
Spike Milligan's gravestone
2.1
mi
Landmark
Rye Harbour SSSI
2.2
mi
Beach
Camber Sands
3.0
mi
Castle
Camber Castle
10.0
mi
Nearby
Museum
Rye Castle Museum
1000 ft
Church
St Mary's Church
600 ft
Museum
Rye Heritage Information Centre
500 ft
Museum
Lamb House
300 ft
Corner Landgate & Tower Street
Landgate
1400 ft
Mermaid Street
Mermaid Street
200 ft
Church
St Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church
400 ft
Gallery
Rye Art Gallery
800 ft
Gallery
Art and Soul Gallery
600 ft
Gallery
The Purdie Gallery
800 ft
105 High Street
Ethel Loves Me
700 ft
18-20 Rope Walk
Glass Etc
1100 ft
Rock Channel
Bridgepoint Rye
1200 ft
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
Martello Tower
1900 ft
Restaurants
Marino's Fish Restaurant and Takeaway
400 ft
37 The Mint
Pasty Presto
800 ft
7 Le Pollet
The Mariners
700 ft
15 High Street
Coterie Tea Rooms
800 ft
15 High Street
Jempson's Cafe
800 ft
45 Cinque Ports Street
Cinque Ports Arms
900 ft
26 Cinque Ports Street
Rye Waterworks Micropub
1400 ft
Tower Street
Explore Rye
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
35 minutes walking
A rich natural habitat for diverse wildlife, featuring scenic trails and birdwatching opportunities.
Rye Castle Museum
4 minutes walking
Offers fascinating exhibits on Rye's history, including a medieval castle and picturesque gardens.
St Mary's Church
2 minutes walking
An architectural gem known for its stunning stained glass windows and historical significance since the 12th century.
Lamb House
1 minute walking
Once the home of author Henry James, this Georgian house showcases beautiful gardens and literary heritage.
Beach Activities at Camber Sands
10 minutes driving
Thrill-seekers can enjoy water sports or sunbathe at this expansive sandy beach, perfect for a fun day out.
Relaxation at Rye Spa
5 minutes driving
Indulge in rejuvenating treatments and calming therapies to unwind after a day of exploring the historical sites.
Marino's Fish Restaurant and Takeaway
2 minutes walking
Renowned for fresh seafood, this casual eatery offers delicious fish and chips in a cozy atmosphere.
Pasty Presto
3 minutes walking
Serves traditional Cornish pastries that are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on the go.
The Mariners
3 minutes walking
A local pub famous for its hearty British dishes and vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite among visitors.
Rye's Weekender Live Music
5 minutes walking
Enjoy live performances from local artists while relaxing in a vibrant pub setting every weekend.
The Electric Palace
10 minutes walking
A vintage cinema showcasing classic and indie films, offering a quaint atmosphere perfect for movie nights.
Getting around town
City Centre
Rye5 min
·
1400 ft
Airports
London Gatwick Airport (LGW)161 min
·
66.4
mi
London City Airport (LCY)171 min
·
70.7
mi
Train
Rye Railway Station4 min
·
1000 ft
Rye Train Station5 min
·
1400 ft
Looking for early-bird discounts?
Get special discounted rates today!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Mermaid Inn guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free.
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
25
Former name
The Mermaid
Reviews and Ratings
What past guests shared about their stay
Review score
Based on 939 verified reviews
8.9/10
Great
93%
Recommend
Breakfast
9.0/10
Cleanliness
9.0/10
Comfort
8.9/10
Facilities
8.6/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.2/10
Location
9.7/10
Paid Wi-Fi
9.5/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.3/10
Pros
Well-maintained hotel
Comfortable bed
Professional waiters
Cons
Thin room walls
Underwhelming breakfast
Bathroom limitations
Guest reviews
based on 1564 reviews
4.5/5
based on 1830 reviews
8.9/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
FAQs
About Mermaid Inn
What are the check-in and check-out times at Mermaid Inn?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
What is the distance from Mermaid Inn to the nearest beach?
Camber Sands Beach is located 5 km from the inn.
What types of dining options are available at Mermaid Inn?
The hotel features an award-winning restaurant serving French and British cuisine and also has a lounge bar.
Which notable attractions are located near Mermaid Inn?
Nearby attractions include Rye Castle Museum (0.5 km), St Mary's Church (0.5 km), and Camber Castle (2 km).
Is parking available at Mermaid Inn?
Free private parking is available on-site without the need for a reservation.
What room amenities can guests expect at Mermaid Inn?
Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle, and an en-suite bathroom.
What recreational activities are offered at Mermaid Inn?
Guests can enjoy activities such as golf, hiking, and windsurfing during their stay.
How far is Mermaid Inn from London Gatwick Airport?
The hotel is located 100 km from London Gatwick Airport.
What dining options are available within walking distance of Mermaid Inn?
Nearby restaurants include Rye Delicatessen, The Standard Inn, and The Ship Inn Restaurant, all within 0.5 km.
Does Mermaid Inn provide any children's amenities?
The hotel offers children's menu options and cots for families.
Is Wi-Fi available at Mermaid Inn?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
What is the architectural significance of Mermaid Inn?
The inn features Tudor architecture and includes elements dating back to the 12th century.