About this property
With Norman cellars dating back to the 12th century and secret passageways in some of its rooms, this inn offers historic accommodations 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 paneling or carved beds. Rooms all feature a TV and private bathroom, and some have picturesque views over Rye.
Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.8 for a two-person trip.
Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap
Most popular amenities
- Free parking
- Free Wifi
- Family rooms
- Restaurant
- Non-smoking rooms
- Room service
- Bar
Guest reviews
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Guests who stayed here loved
- Susan
United States
“The history! The comfortable bed and room! The friendly service. The great breakfast. Everything 👍” - Julian
United Kingdom
“Steeped in history, exceptional interiors which are very well preserved. Staff were friendly and helpful.” - Rosalyn
United Kingdom
“The food is really excellent, as is breakfast. The staff are friendly and helpful.” - Prindle
United States
“Charm of an old inn without lacking conveniences. Very nice restaurant for dinner and breakfast. The pace was unhurried, which was a welcome break from the usual hustle of travel.” - Lewis
United Kingdom
“Wonderful stay.You really do get what you pay for.Friendly staff,exceptionally clean.A classic old period building.Very creaky and atmospheric.Third time going and will be back for sure!!” - Marc
United States
“The location was excellent. The staff were great as was the breakfast. It’s an extremely old inn so go there with the intent for that experience.” - Janice
United Kingdom
“15century inn full of history and charm Very friendly and helpful staff , exceptional food the room was warm and comfortable” - Danielle
South Africa
“Absolutely amazing hotel! It's so beautiful and old inside but everything just seems so well maintained. Lots of attention to detail in decorations and general aesthetics. The rooms were also so quiet and we appreciated that we got a bath and not...” - Dee
United Kingdom
“The originality of the property, very warm & cozy” - Vicky
United Kingdom
“How passionate Judith the Director was and her guided tour was very interesting. The room was fantastic and the restaurant was great. All round good stay.”
Hotel area info
Restaurants
- Restaurant at The Mermaid Inn
- Open forBreakfast • Lunch • Dinner
- AmbienceTraditional • Romantic
- Dietary optionsVegan • Gluten-free • Dairy-free
House rules
Child policies
Children of all ages are welcome.
To see correct prices and occupancy info, add the number and ages of children in your group to your search.
Crib and extra bed policies
Prices for cribs and extra beds aren't included in the total price. They'll have to be paid for separately during your stay.
The number of extra beds and cribs allowed depends on the option you choose. Check your selected option for more info.
All cribs 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 the coronavirus (COVID-19), additional safety and sanitation measures are in effect at this property.