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
Guest reviews
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Guests who stayed here loved
- Nick
United Kingdom
“Location is spot on. Great friendly atmosphere. Staff spot on. Soaking up Great British tradition , in a pub - marvellous” - Gaye
United Kingdom
“The property is sublime lie staying in a time gone by. It’s at least my 6 th visit to the Inn” - Joanne
United Kingdom
“The dinner was great, a bit limited, if you are fussy. But none of our party was. The breakfast next morning was also very good. We did a tour of the The Mermaid Inn with the owner, which was very interesting and informative, it was nice to see...” - John
United Kingdom
“Staff were great, enjoyed the food, fantastic location and history” - Vicky
United Kingdom
“We loved the atmosphere the location and the staff” - Damien
France
“Spacious and charming room. Lovely vibe and warm welcome” - Cherry
United Kingdom
“Beautiful old Inn. Great location and comfortable room.” - Juliette
United Kingdom
“You can imagine being transported back to the 16th Century staying here with it's wonky floors, leaning walls and ancient beams. It's the most gorgeous looking Inn and the staff, every single one of them were friendly, helpful and looked like...” - Wenborn
New Zealand
“Perfect. 10/10 Everything you would expect and more in everyway.” - 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...”
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.