"This is definitely one of the most picturesque inns we have ever stayed in, with wobbly creaking corridors and tons of character."
Brobsf from United States
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"Dinner was delicious and our room - no 6, the Tudor Rose - was very atmospheric with an exceptionally comfortable bed."
Zoe L from United Kingdom
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"The rooms are beautifully preserved to an exceptional standard - we were lucky enough to stay in the famous hawkhurst suite."
Georgia D from United Kingdom
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Location
Mermaid Inn stands in the medieval town of Rye, surrounded by cobbled streets and independent shops. The Heritage Centre, known for its Sound and Light Show, serves as a starting point for exploring the area. Access by car is straightforward from the A259, with onsite parking for 25 vehicles.
Dining Experience
The Linen Fold Panelled Restaurant boasts 2 AA Rosettes and serves contemporary cuisine. Guests can opt for the tranquility of the Dr Syn Dining Room or the privacy of the Boardroom for meals. The restaurant's menu emphasizes local ingredients, paired with an extensive wine selection, including offerings from nearby Gusbourne Vineyard.
Unique Accommodations
With 31 distinctive rooms, each named after historical figures associated with the inn, guests experience authentic Tudor charm. Many rooms feature carved beds, Caen stone fireplaces, and views of the Rye citadel. The Elizabethan Bedchamber includes a secret stairway accessible through a bookcase.
Exclusive Tours
Owner Judith Blincow leads guided tours of the 600-year-old Mermaid Inn on the last Sunday of each month. These tours offer a detailed exploration of the historical building, including the iconic Dr Syn's Lounge and the Giant's Fireplace Bar. Visitors can connect with the rich history of Rye and the inn's storied past.
Historic Bar Experience
The Giant's Fireplace Bar invites guests to experience the ambiance of a former smuggling haven from the 18th century. Guests can enjoy a diverse selection of locally sourced ales, wines, and whiskies. The hotel also offers outdoor seating on three patio areas, providing a sunny escape during warmer months.
Highlights
Location: cobbled streets, independent shops
Dining: 2 AA Rosette restaurant
Accommodations: 31 unique rooms
Tours: guided historical tours offered
Bar: selections of local ales and whiskies
Must-do experiences
Stroll through the enchanting Mermaid Street for stunning medieval views.
Visit Rye Castle Museum to learn about the town's rich history.
Indulge in fresh fish and chips at The Fish Café - a local favorite.
Explore the Rye Farmers' Market on Thursdays for artisanal goods.
Take a ghost tour at The Mermaid Inn for a spooky, historical outing.
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Select your room type
Choose from doubles, suites, or family rooms, many with breakfast, flexible cancellation, and promotional rates
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
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Facilities
Boutique hotels design their amenities with your relaxation and unique travel experiences in mind
Facilities:
Great
8.6/10Review 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
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
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Dining Onsite
At the Mermaid Inn, the dining options reflect a rich tapestry of flavors set against the charming backdrop of a 600-year-old inn. Guests can indulge in a fusion of traditional and contemporary dishes paired with exquisite drinks, all within romantic and inviting spaces.
Restaurant at The Mermaid Inn
Vegan, Gluten-free, Dairy-free
Ambiance
Traditional and Romantic, featuring cozy settings and a warm atmosphere
Key Offerings
A curated experience with handpicked spices for unique cocktails, and award-winning Mermaid Gin selections, all complemented by the character of the ancient inn's charm.
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 Discoveries
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Rye Castle Museum
4 minutes' walk
Historic artifacts and exhibitions depict Rye's maritime history. Features a scenic garden and lovely viewpoints.
Lamb House
1 minute' walk
This former home of author Henry James showcases beautiful gardens and contains literary history and intriguing architecture.
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
8 minutes' drive
A protected area rich in wildlife with various walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and coastal views.
St Mary's Church
2 minutes' walk
Medieval church famous for its tower offering panoramic views of Rye. The architecture and stained glass are noteworthy.
Kayaking at Rye Harbour
8 minutes' drive
Kayak rentals available for an adventurous trip on the waters around Rye Harbour. Guided tours enhance the experience.
Yoga at The Art of Living
6 minutes' walk
Relaxing yoga classes available in a tranquil setting. Suitable for all levels and seasonal outdoor sessions offered.
Marino's Fish Restaurant and Takeaway
2 minutes' walk
Popular seafood spot known for fish and chips made with fresh local catches. Casual, friendly atmosphere perfect for families.
The Mariners
3 minutes' walk
Charming pub with a focus on local ales and hearty British meals. Reservations recommended for dinner and special occasions.
The Rye Community Centre
5 minutes' walk
Host to local events, workshops, and live performances. Family-friendly atmosphere with a community spirit.
Rye's Jazz Night
8 minutes' walk
Live jazz music every Friday at a local venue, great for a night out. Unique vibe attracts both locals and visitors.
Getting around
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
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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
Real comments from travelers who have already stayed
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
Delicious breakfast
Friendly staff
Comfortable beds
Historic building
Cons
Limited parking
Steep stairs
Noisy floors
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.
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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.
How far is Mermaid Inn from Camber Sands Beach?
The hotel is 5 km from Camber Sands Beach.
What dining options are available at Mermaid Inn?
Guests can dine at the award-winning restaurant, Linen Fold Paneled Restaurant, or relax in the Giants Fireplace Bar.
Is parking available at Mermaid Inn?
Free private parking is available on-site without a reservation.
What amenities can guests expect in their rooms at Mermaid Inn?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle, and en suite bathrooms.
How far is Mermaid Inn from Rye city center?
The hotel is located 0.5 km from Rye city center.
What recreational activities can guests participate in at Mermaid Inn?
Guests can enjoy hiking, golf, and themed dinner nights on-site.
Are there any historical attractions near Mermaid Inn?
Nearby historical attractions include St Mary's Church (0.3 km) and Rye Castle Museum (0.5 km).
What type of cuisine is served at Mermaid Inn's restaurant?
The restaurant serves fine French and British cuisine and has been awarded two AA Rosettes.
Is there a lounge area at Mermaid Inn?
Yes, there is a cozy lounge bar area with a large open log fireplace.
Does Mermaid Inn offer laundry services?
The hotel provides laundry services for guests.
What is the distance from Mermaid Inn to the nearest train station?
The nearest train station is a 5-minute walk from the hotel.