Key details

About the Hotel

Mermaid Street, Rye

Close to the historic old town

Great

8.9

/10

4.6

4.5

"Its antiquity: an ancient hostelry dating back to the 1100s beautifully furnished and well maintained, with excellent food and service."

Mary from United Kingdom

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"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

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"The hotel is full of history and character and well worth an explore around."

jek1102 from United Kingdom

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4-star historic inn with Tudor charm in Rye

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

Location: Perfect

9.7/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Guest ParkingEasy parking!

Parking was easy! I drove through the archway, and got help parking in the small lot.

Richard from Wales

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DiningSuperb Breakfast

Breakfast was amazing! The best I've had in years, with every option I could want.

Jessica from Canada

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BedroomComfortable beds

Our twin room was spacious. The beds were very comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep.

Megan from Australia

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Room FeaturesHistoric Charm

The diamond-paned window made me feel like I traveled back in time!

Evelyn from United States

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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
Heating
Shower
room details
Single Room
2 persons
90 sq. feet
1 Single bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Superior Twin Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet
1 Double bed and 1 Single bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details

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Room rates & availability calendar

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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking

Facilities: Great

8.5/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
24-hour reception
Pets allowed
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Hiking
Golf course

Services

Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Board games
Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

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

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

Map view

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

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

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
Rye 5 min · 1400 ft
Airports
London Gatwick (LGW) 161 min · 66.4 mi
London City (LCY) 171 min · 70.7 mi
Train
Rye Railway Station 4 min · 1000 ft
Rye Train Station 5 min · 1400 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Children & extra beds

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Number of rooms:

Former name

The Mermaid

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay

Review score

Based on 3 verified reviews

8.2 /10

Great

100%

Recommend

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Comfort

8.9/10

Facilities

8.5/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.1/10

Location

9.7/10

Staff

9.4/10

Value for money

8.2/10

based on 1564 reviews

4.5/5

Alex from United Kingdom

Couple

Twin Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 15, 2026

6/10

low pressure loose towel rail

the location was good. it was easy to walk around.

The bathroom was a major letdown, it felt outdated. the shower had practically no water pressure, it was just a trickle. also, the towel rail was loose. It almost fell off the wall. i was annoyed.

0 Helpful

Elliot from United Kingdom

Family with children

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 25, 2025

9/10

Charming Historical Stay

antique decor breakfast selection central location polite staff

The rooms featured antique decor I appreciated the historical touch. The breakfast offered a great selection of food. The location was central allowing easy access to many points of interest. The staff were consistently polite and helpful throughout my stay.

The water pressure in the shower was quite low I did have to wait longer than expected.

Service

9/10

Staff members were always available at the front desk assisting with directions. The team provided efficient and attentive service.

0 Helpful

Mick from Australia

Single

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 09, 2025

9.6/10

Wonderful Historical Stay

warm staff delicious food history tour perfect location

The staff were warm and cute . A tour of the rooms and cellar showed a lot of history. The food tasted delicious , and I especially enjoyed the cheesecake dessert. The hotel had a perfect location with easy access to the town.

The stairs are steep and narrow, so guests with mobility issues may find it difficult.

Rooms

9/10

My room featured historical charm and comfort. The room was super clean with a comfortable bed. Murals and pictures adorning the walls had a historical connection to the inn. The unique character of the building added a special touch.

Dining

10/10

The breakfast offered tasty options and quality ingredients. I had a plated Sunday lunch , and it was one of the nicest I have eaten. The quality of the beef was fabulous , the roast potatoes were delicious. The cauliflower cheese was amazing too.

Service

10/10

The staff were highly efficient , smart , knowledgeable , and friendly. I felt comfortable and they were professional. The reception staff were warm and cute. They were anticipating my every need , a good experience.

Facilities

9/10

The building reminded me of stepping back in time , full of history. There are cosy lounges and a well-stocked bar for relaxation. The inn had several lounges to relax in. Everything was very comfy and tidy.

Location

10/10

The hotel is situated in the very center of the area . Its perfect location offers interesting history. The setting provides a magical experience , escaping from the norm. I found the atmosphere to be fine.

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