Mermaid Inn Rye Exterior photoMermaid Inn Rye Exterior photoMermaid Inn Rye Exterior photo
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From208US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Mermaid Street, Rye, United Kingdom
-
Close to the historic old town
Great
8.9
/10
4.6
4.4
/5

Dining

Dining occurs in the two AA Rosette Linen Fold Panelled Restaurant, featuring local ingredients cooked by Head Chef Drew King. The restaurant offers several settings, including the spacious Dr Syn Dining Room and the Boardroom for private meals. Room service is available, with an extensive wine list highlighting local vineyards such as Gusbourne and Chapel Down.

Guided Historical Tours

The hotel offers monthly guided tours led by owner Judith Blincow, showcasing the 600-year-old building's history. Tours allow guests to explore unique features such as the secret stairway concealed behind the bookcase. Experience the historical journey of Rye, highlighting its smuggling heritage and architectural significance.

Bar Experience

Guests can enjoy beverages in The Giant's Fireplace Bar, renowned for its local smuggling history from the 1730s and 1740s. The bar serves a wide selection of drinks, including local ales, over 60 gins, and more than 90 whiskies. The outdoor patio offers additional seating areas to relax in the warmer months.

Accommodations

The hotel consists of 31 unique rooms, each named after notable individuals related to the inn's history. Rooms feature carved beds, fine oakwood paneling, Caen stone fireplaces, and latticed windows. Notable rooms include the Elizabethan Bed Chamber and Dr Syn's Bed Chamber, which contains a secret passageway.

Location

Conveniently located within the medieval citadel of Rye, the hotel is close to cobbled streets, independent shops, cafes, and the Rye Heritage Centre. The Heritage Centre features a Sound and Light Show, providing insight into the town's rich history. The hotel is a short walk from Rye train station, connecting to Ashford International for further travel.

Highlights

Location: medieval citadel of Rye, close to independent shops

Dining: 2 AA Rosette Linen Fold Panelled Restaurant

Guided Tours: showcasing the 600-year-old building

Bar: Giant's Fireplace Bar with local ales and gins

Accommodations: 31 unique rooms with historical significance

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll around the picturesque cobbled streets of Mermaid Street.
  • Visit Rye's own Rye Castle Museum for local history and heritage.
  • Don't miss trying fish and chips at The Fish Cafe on the High Street.
  • Explore the enchanting Lamb House, home to writer Henry James.
  • Wander through the Rye Farmers Market on Thursdays for local goods.
View all

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
110 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Single Room
2 persons
90 sq. feet 
1 Single bed
Shower
Heating
Superior Twin Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Twin Room
2 persons
155 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Heating
Bathtub
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Facilities

Mermaid Inn offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.6/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • 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 Restaurant at The Mermaid Inn, guests can indulge in exquisite dining experiences that beautifully blend tradition and modern culinary art. Offering diverse meal options, including vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free choices, this charming venue delights with a romantic ambiance and a rich heritage that dates back 600 years.
Mermaid Inn Rye Restaurant photo
Mermaid Inn Rye Restaurant photo
Mermaid Inn Rye Restaurant photo

Restaurant at The Mermaid Inn

Traditional British with modern influences
Ambiance
A cozy, romantic setting adorned with historical charm, featuring warm lighting and traditional decor, perfect for intimate dinners or leisurely lunches.
Key Offerings
A focus on authentic local ingredients, complemented by a selection of botanically infused drinks, including unique gins crafted from spices along the ancient spice route. The restaurant also boasts a lovely walled patio for outdoor dining.
Reservation
Recommended
Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner; hours vary.

Mermaid Inn Location

Mermaid Street, Rye, United Kingdom
Map view
Mermaid Street, Rye, United Kingdom
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 Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Rye Heritage Information Centre
Rye Heritage Information Centre
2 minutes' walk
Information hub featuring local history exhibits and helpful insights about Rye's attractions.
Rye Castle Museum
Rye Castle Museum
4 minutes' walk
Museum showcasing the town's history with medieval artifacts and picturesque views from the tower.
Lamb House
Lamb House
1 minute' walk
Former home of author Henry James, featuring beautiful gardens and a glimpse into literary history.
St Mary's Church
St Mary's Church
2 minutes' walk
Historic church known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere, with wonderful local community events.
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
35 minutes walking
Nature reserve boasting diverse wildlife and scenic trails for both casual walkers and birdwatchers.
Camber Sands Beach
10-minute drive
Famous sandy beach ideal for water sports and sunbathing, perfect for thrill-seekers and families.
Yoga at The Old Dairy
10 minutes' walk
Local yoga studio offering classes aimed at relaxation and wellness, suitable for all levels.
Marino's Fish Restaurant and Takeaway
Marino's Fish Restaurant and Takeaway
2 minutes' walk
Casual eatery renowned for its fresh seafood platters and local fish dishes. Reservations recommended.
The Mariners
The Mariners
3 minutes' walk
Traditional pub with a cozy atmosphere, serving classic British fare and local ales. Family-friendly.
Coterie Tea Rooms
Coterie Tea Rooms
3 minutes' walk
Charming tea room offering artisan cakes and afternoon tea. Vegetarian options available.
Rye Jazz Night at The Waterworks
10 minutes' walk
Live jazz music every Friday evening providing a vibrant atmosphere for music lovers and couples.
The Rye Community Theatre
5 minutes' walk
Local theater showcasing a variety of performances, from drama to comedy, capturing community spirit.
Getting around
City Centre
Rye5 min  ·  1400 ft
Airports
London Gatwick (LGW)161 min  ·  66.4 mi
London City (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

Feedback about Mermaid Inn from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 971 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
8.9/10
Location
9.7/10
Paid Wi-Fi
9.5/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.2/10
Guest reviews
based on 971 reviews
8.9/10
based on 1564 reviews
4.5/5
based on 1804 reviews
8.9/10
Aiden from Ireland
Couple
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 21, 2026
6/10

mixed experience due to service and room issues

comfortable pillowsunstable temperatureslow breakfast service
The hotel building had history and a unique feel. The beds featured comfy crisp white sheets and comfortable pillows.
The shower temperature swung wildly from very cold to very hot, posing a risk. I found dangerous parking conditions. service at breakfast was very slow both mornings. the full english breakfast size was disappointing.
0 Helpful
Alan from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 29, 2025
9.3/10

historic hotel charmed me

friendly staffunique charactersteep staircase
the staff were friendly. the breakfast was delicious and offered a great variety. the location was ideal, and the building itself was an absolute delight with its historical charm and unique character.
the staircases were steep and narrow, posing a challenge with luggage. it could be difficult with mobility issues. some bathroom fixtures looked a bit dated.
Rooms
9/10
the room was clean. It had historical features like exposed beams. I noticed the furnishings included a comfortable bed and period-appropriate decor adding to the ambience.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel offered several lounges. the bar was cosy and well-stocked. i saw the restaurant served breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a menu emphasizing local cuisine.
Service
10/10
the staff were attentive . they provided helpful recommendations for local attractions. Check-in and check-out were efficient and courteous making everything easy.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Dominic from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 14, 2025
6/10

Mixed Feelings About This Place

slow breakfastinconvenient lack
I found a couple of things lacking. The breakfast service was terribly slow. I also noticed there was no butter for the toast on either morning. Quite inconvenient. The hotel's historic charm is nice, but I expected more attentive service for the price.
0 Helpful
Juliet from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:November 24, 2025
6/10
rubbery pillowspoor sound insulation
The location is amazing, and the staff are friendly. the bedroom experience was subpar. The pillows felt rubbery. sound insulation was a major issue. I could hear conversations in the bar below until midnight and every sound from the adjoining bathroom. It's disappointing considering the price.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Mermaid Inn
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Mermaid Inn?
Check-in is from 14:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is Mermaid Inn from Rye city center?
The hotel is located just 0.5 km from Rye city center, approximately a 5-minute walk.
What are some nearby attractions to Mermaid Inn?
Nearby attractions include the Rye Castle Museum (0.5 km), St Mary's Church (0.3 km), and Camber Sands Beach (5 km).
What dining options are available at Mermaid Inn?
Guests can dine at the on-site restaurant, which has received 2 AA Rosettes for its fine cuisine.
Is parking available at Mermaid Inn?
Free private parking is available on-site without reservation.
What room amenities are provided at Mermaid Inn?
Rooms feature free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, electric kettle, and en suite bathroom.
Are there any recreational activities at Mermaid Inn?
Guests can enjoy on-site activities such as golf, hiking, and windsurfing.
What is the proximity of Mermaid Inn to London Gatwick Airport?
The hotel is located 100 km away from London Gatwick Airport.
Which bars or lounges are available at Mermaid Inn?
The hotel features a bar/lounge area with a cozy ambiance and an extensive selection of spirits.
What additional services does Mermaid Inn offer?
Services include luggage storage, 24-hour reception, and laundry facilities.
Can guests enjoy breakfast at Mermaid Inn?
Guests can enjoy breakfast options including continental and full English.

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Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room