Mermaid Inn

We were more than half expecting that a weekend in January, in a hotel rebuilt in 1420, might feel more like glamping than a cozy birthday treat. But despite freezing temperatures even through the daytime, the charm, atmosphere and lovely, authentic staff kept us warmed through. We had a small room and it really was lovely and warm. But I noticed people in larger rooms asking - and promptly getting - extra heaters. I stay in hotels for work a lot, but the amazing historical ambience and an actual bellboy helped to pick this stay out as a lovely way to spoil ourselves for a night. The food and drink by the giant’s fireplace (pictured) was really excellent. Squeeze into the car park to claim your spot early. Be ready to cooperate with fellow guests when it comes to getting in and out too. Oh, and the 1420s weren’t known for their excellent accessibility. That’s no one’s fault. Be ready for wonky floors, steep stairs and uneven walls. It’s part of the fun. And MIND YOUR HEAD!

We had a dinner at Mermaid Inn to celebrate my husband’s birthday. The food was outstanding! The chefs certainly know what they are doing! The service was great, the team of waiters were attentive but not intrusive and very polite. And of course, such an atmospheric establishment! Thank you all for making our evening so special! We would certainly like to return,

A truly historic old pub in the heart of Rye, serving lovely pub lunches and with a good restaurant in the evening. You won’t find a more authentic 15th century pub (with a Norman cellar) anywhere! Dinner in the evening in their well lit restaurant was good - at least we didn’t have to use the torch on our mobiles to read the menu ! Charming young waiting staff. One young man took us down to look at the Norman cellar ! Good food well presented. Recommended

We went for dinner on a Saturday night. Everything was perfect. Great service, great food. You get little amuse bouche to start (ours was a little pastry case filled with flavoured cream cheese and a cherry tomato) plus a couple of olives. I had butternut squash pithivier and my friend had venison. Her kedgeree starter looked delicious and she said it was. Really good flavours. Chef clearly knows what he’s doing.

I returned to The Mermaid Inn on Monday 14th October for a two night stay.I had visited but had not stayed here for 30 years and it certainly didn’t disappoint!…We were warmly welcomed at reception then shown to our three rooms which were spotless,and very comfortable too.It was immediately obvious to me that money had been lavished into this wonderful hotel since my last stay,the bedrooms,bathrooms ,communal rooms and stairways and landings looked lovely.The world has changed so much in 30 years but The Mermaid has successfully moved forward but maintained the high standards of the past.The bar was busy and buzzing the gorgeous log fire not lit yet as it was still so mild outside.The jewel of this amazing hotel is found in the dining room under the watchful eye of Sam.The service is excellent and the staff,mainly young are very friendly too.We did remark that on the dinner menu there were 3 items of “game” which left unfortunately a smaller choice but we were invited to enjoy the bar menu in the restaurant which we thoroughly enjoyed.I had steak and kidney pudding one evening and the fish of the day the following evening.The food both at breakfast and at dinner was impeccable,beautifully cooked and hot,certainly 5 star,but it’s the staff here that bring the whole restaurant to life with their friendliness.I cannot praise them enough.I did have reservations about staying after a 30 year break but the whole experience here certainly didn’t disappoint.I am already looking forward to returning one day…Thankyou….

Stayed here for one night only at the end of March. Beautiful old inn with all the quirky atmosphere and history you would expect such as creaky floorboards. Was made most welcome at reception, and escorted to my single room by the helpful and cheerful porter. My room was clean and comfortable with a single four poster bed, the room was decorated with old beams and wonky floors. I had an evening meal at the restaurant which was exceptional and the service was impeccable. The staff certainly go the extra mile. I would most certainly return to The Mermaid Inn and I will recommend to my friends .