MERMAID INN, Rye

Mermaid Inn - Historic 600-year-old inn in medieval Rye citadel

Dating from 1420, Mermaid Inn occupies a timber-framed building in Rye's medieval citadel. The inn features the Giants Fireplace Bar with one of England's largest open log fireplaces, and a 2 AA Rosette Linen Fold Paneled Restaurant serving local produce. Three patio areas provide outdoor seating in summer. The property includes Dr. Syn's Lounge with historical wall carvings, a Tudor Bar accommodating up to 50 people, and secret passageways including a Priest Hole. On-site parking for 25 cars is available. Rye train station is a 5-minute walk away, with connections to Ashford International for high-speed links to London St Pancras (1-hour journey).

Additional perks of the hotel:

Monthly guided tours of the 600-year-old building led by the owner

Free Wi-Fi throughout the property

Over 60 gins and 90 whiskies selection at the bar

Wedding facilities with capacity for up to 90 guests

Local and seasonal ingredients in the AA Rosette restaurant

Dog-friendly rooms (by prior arrangement)

Room Options

The inn offers 31 individually named rooms, each with historical connections to the inn or Rye. Room types include doubles, singles (one with an early Victorian four-poster bed), and family rooms. Some feature carved beds, oakwood paneling, and Caen stone fireplaces. Second-story rooms have curved timbers supporting peaked ceilings and dormer windows overlooking Rye citadel. Dr Syn's Bedchamber contains a secret passageway behind a bookcase leading to a Priest Hole. None of the rooms are on the ground floor.

Other conveniences

Private bathrooms with free toiletries and hairdryers

Flat-screen TVs and AM/FM alarm clocks

Electric kettles and tea/coffee making facilities

Heating and carpeted floors

Some rooms with original features including wattle and daub walls

Wi-Fi and wardrobe storage