Mermaid Inn Rye Exterior photoMermaid Inn Rye Exterior photoMermaid Inn Rye Exterior photo

Mermaid Inn, Rye

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From$208 /night
Check-in
04Sept
Check-out
05Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Mermaid Street, Rye
-
Close to the historic old town
Great
8.9
/10
4.6
4.5
/5

4-star historic inn in Rye with unique Tudor architecture

Location

The Mermaid Inn is located centrally in Rye, making it convenient for exploring the town's cobbled streets, independent shops, cafes, and restaurants within the medieval citadel. The Rye Heritage Centre is nearby, offering a Sound and Light Show that introduces visitors to the area's history. Access is straightforward by car or train, with an on-site car park accommodating 25 vehicles and a train station just a five-minute walk away.

Rooms

The hotel offers 31 unique rooms, each named after historical figures associated with the inn and Rye. Rooms feature magnificent carved beds, fine oakwood paneling, and Caen stone fireplaces, along with intriguing architectural details such as curved timbers and dormer windows. Notable accommodations include Dr Syn's Bedchamber, which has a secret stairway concealed behind a bookcase.

Dining

The Mermaid Inn hosts the Linen Fold Panelled Restaurant, recognized with 2 AA Rosettes, where guests can enjoy a varied menu highlighting local produce. Dinner is served from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm, while breakfast features a Continental option as well as a Full English. The Giants' Fireplace Bar offers a selection of local ales, wines, and whiskies in a historically rich setting.

Entertainment

The hotel provides guided tours of its 600-year-old building on the last Sunday of each month, led by owner Judith Blincow. Guests can immerse themselves in the history of the inn while exploring features like the Giant's Fireplace Bar, where smugglers once gathered. The environment includes two lounges where guests can relax after dining.

Weddings and Events

The Mermaid Inn offers personalized planning services for weddings and private functions with a function room that accommodates up to 90 guests. The Board Room provides space for 14 guests, while tailored menus can create memorable dining experiences. Local ceremony venues include the Parish Church of St Mary and Rye Town Hall.

Highlights

Location: Medieval citadel, convenient for exploring

Rooms: 31 unique rooms with historical significance

Dining: 2 AA Rosette Fine Dining Linen Fold Panelled Restaurant

Entertainment: Guided Tours through the 600 year old Building

Weddings: Personalised planning for 90 guests

Parking: On-site car park for 25 cars

“This historic inn, a Rye landmark for 600 years, offers a unique blend of Tudor architecture and fine dining, including a restaurant recognized with 2 AA Rosettes; ghost stories and complimentary tours add intrigue, while the cozy bar boasts local ales and an impressive gin selection. Some past diners have reported inconsistencies in the kitchen, suggesting variable experiences. It's a memorable place to stay.”
Hotel logo
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Select your room type

Mermaid Inn offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
  • Double Room
    2 persons
    10 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Single Room
    2 persons
    8 sq. feet
    1 Single bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Superior Twin Room
    2 persons
    20 sq. feet
    1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!
September 2026 - September 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Mermaid Inn offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
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

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

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
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Dining Onsite

At the Mermaid Inn, dining is a celebration of tradition and flavor, where guests are invited to experience culinary delights in a historic setting. The Restaurant at The Mermaid Inn combines a romantic ambiance with a commitment to accommodating diverse dietary preferences, all while surrounded by the charm of an ancient inn.
  • Restaurant at The Mermaid Inn

    Vegan, Gluten-free, Dairy-free
    Ambiance
    Traditional, Romantic
    Key Offerings
    Savor dishes crafted with fresh local ingredients, including a unique selection of botanicals blended into signature cocktails featuring Mermaid Gin. Guests can enjoy the intimate atmosphere by the Giants Fireplace Bar or on the walled patio, making it perfect for any occasion.
    Reservation
    Yes
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner; hours vary

Mermaid Inn Location

Mermaid Street, Rye
Explore Rye
Explore Rye's Rich Offerings
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Rye Castle Museum
Rye Castle Museum
4 minutes' walk
Rye Castle Museum presents the town's history through engaging displays and artifacts. Its alarmingly well-preserved structure is a highlight.
Lamb House
Lamb House
1 minute' walk
Lamb House showcases beautiful Georgian architecture and tranquil gardens. Once home to author Henry James, it exudes historic charm.
St Mary's Church
St Mary's Church
2 minutes' walk
St Mary's Church offers stunning stained glass windows and a panoramic tower view. A must-visit for history and architecture buffs.
Rye Heritage Information Centre
Rye Heritage Information Centre
2 minutes' walk
This center provides local insights, maps, and guides. A fantastic resource for planning your adventures in and around Rye.
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
35 minutes' walk
Great for bird watching and nature walks, this reserve features diverse habitats. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Camber Sands Beach
50 minutes' walk
This expansive beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Opportunities for water sports make it a favorite for thrill-seekers.
Local Markets
15 minutes' walk
Rye hosts charming markets showcasing local produce and crafts. A relaxing way to explore the community's vibrant culture.
Marino's Fish Restaurant and Takeaway
2 minutes' walk
Seafood-focused eatery with a cozy ambiance. Famous for its fish and chips, it satisfies cravings for local flavors.
The Mariners
3 minutes' walk
This historic pub offers hearty British cuisine in a relaxed setting. Great for casual dining with local ales on tap.
Coterie Tea Rooms
3 minutes' walk
A quaint tea room known for delicious scones and afternoon tea. Ideal for a relaxing break during your exploration.
Rye Arts Festival
10 minutes' walk
This annual event showcases local art, music, and performances. A cultural highlight perfect for art enthusiasts and families.
Local Pubs and Bars
5 minutes' walk
A vibrant nightlife scene with several pubs offering live music and quiz nights, perfect for guests of all ages.
Getting around
  • 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
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
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:
25
Former name
The Mermaid

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Mermaid Inn from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Mermaid Inn, a supremely charming and historic inn in the heart of Rye, is widely appreciated for its unique atmosphere, often described as a step back in time. Guests frequently praise the excellent breakfast served in the dining room, and many rooms, such as Number 14, offer spacious comfort with features like high beamed ceilings. Some guests have noted that parking availability can occasionally be limited, but overall, the Inn's central location near attractions like Henry James's house and the cozy bar area with its roaring fires contribute to memorable stays.
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Review score
Based on 1212 verified reviews
9.0 /10
Perfect
93 %
Recommend
Location
9.7/10
Staff
9.5/10
Value for money
8.2/10
Free WiFi
8.3/10
Pros
Friendly staff
Excellent food
Central location
Comfortable environment
Cons
Thin walls
Tight parking
Guest reviews
based on 1212 reviews
9.0/10
based on 1564 reviews
4.5/5
based on 1731 reviews
8.9/10
Ava from United Kingdom
Single
Single Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 11, 2026
5/10
inadequate water pressure loose taps
the food quality at breakfast was acceptable.
the bathroom was outdated. the shower attachment was awkwardly placed, and the water pressure was insufficient. the taps on the sink were loose, and i needed both hands to operate them.
0 Helpful
Connor from Australia
Single
Small Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 09, 2026
6/10
lackluster room gin presentation
the food in the restaurant WAS fabulous.
My room lacked any real character. i was also disappointed in the presentation of my gin. It had no lemon or fruit, just ice. breakfast was nice, BUT nothing special.
0 Helpful
Nathaniel from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 05, 2026
6/10
poor flow steep steps
room service is a nice addition, IT met my expectations.
The overhead shower was UNDER powered with very poor flow. The access to the bathroom was up 2 steep steps. This made it difficult to use.
0 Helpful
Camila from Argentina
Single
double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 26, 2025
7/10
helpful staff historic architecture good breakfast small bathroom low pressure long refill
the staff were friendly and helpful. the building had historic architecture and character. breakfast in the dining room was good and enjoyable.
the bathroom was small it made having a bath difficult. water pressure was low in the shower. the toilet took a long time to refill.
0 Helpful
John from United Kingdom
Single
double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 11, 2025
6/10

a standard stay

helpful staff central location high bed poor quality
i liked the staff. they were really helpful to me. the location had a car park and it was central. i found this useful because I had a car.
the bed was TOO high. i found it difficult to climb. NO stool were in the room. the toilet seat was very poor quality and slid about.
0 Helpful
Luke from United Kingdom
Couple
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: November 23, 2025
9.3/10

History and Charm! A Fantastic Stay

unique architecture cosy lounge amazing dinner
The building had a unique architecture with lots of interesting nooks! I really enjoyed the cosy lounge rooms. They were great places for reading. Dinner in the restaurant was amazing, I only wished I had room for dessert. The staff was the highlight. Everyone was lovely and seemed to enjoy their work!
The hotel did allocate me a room above some event though. It was a bit noisy for sleeping at first.
Service
9/10
The staff was really friendly and helpful. They provided quick service and addressed all my questions immediately, much appreciated.
Dining
10/10
The dining room offered a fine dining experience with a good atmosphere. The wine list was extensive and complemented the meals perfectly. I ate pigeon wellington and beetroot and goats cheese, and also the belly pork. Bread and amuse bouche started the experience.
Facilities
9/10
The hotel features cosy guest lounges with roaring fires. There is a bar that provides a great gin list and also good local beer, so everyone can find a drink to enjoy. I loved it!
Rooms
9/10
My room was spacious and clean. It also had tea and coffee making facilities. The room was really olde worldly, which I love! It included comfortable bedding and good climate control.
0 Helpful
|
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Questions of the users
About Mermaid Inn
Is it possible to secure a parking spot at the hotel premises for our car?
10 April 2024
The hotel offers limited parking with 25 spaces, primarily allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, except for Blue Badge Holders. Nearby alternatives are available within a short walk.
Are ensuite bathrooms included with the rooms?
12 May 2024
Yes, all rooms feature ensuite bathrooms for guest convenience.
Is this hotel recognized for its haunting history?
15 June 2024
Yes, The Mermaid Inn is known for its haunted reputation. Guests can inquire for stories about the hotel's ghostly tales.
Is breakfast included in the room rates?
20 July 2024
Yes, all room rates come with breakfast included for guests.
What are the chances of encountering a ghost during my stay?
25 August 2024
While the hotel is reputed to be haunted, there's no guarantee of seeing a ghost.
Are dogs permitted to stay in the rooms?
30 September 2024
Dogs are permitted in the hotel rooms, but not in the bar, restaurant, or lounges, with a small nightly fee applicable.
Can you confirm if there's a place to store bicycles at the hotel?
05 October 2024
Yes, a secure area is available for storing bicycles during your stay.
Is there an option to charge electric vehicles at the hotel?
12 November 2024
The hotel offers EV charging points for overnight guests, which should be reserved in advance.
How far is the beach from the hotel, and what are the transportation options?
18 December 2024
Camber Sands beach is about a 5-kilometer walk away, or guests can take a bus that runs hourly from a nearby stop.
What dining options are available at The Mermaid Inn?
22 January 2025
Enjoy meals in the 2 AA Rosette Linen Fold Panelled Restaurant, offering a variety of dining settings and menus crafted from local ingredients.

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