Mermaid Inn

My daughter booked our stay for a Christmas present for my husband and I. It didn't disappoint! The hotel was stunning! The timbers, fireplaces, art works, maze of corridors and the sloping floor. Loved it!! Our room was everything I hoped and in keeping with the hotel. Very comfortable with everything we needed. Delicious breakfast the next morning too. Lastly the staff were so friendly and attentive. Everyone said hello whenever we met them around the hotel. We were met by lovely welcoming staff when we arrived. Thank you so much Mermaid Inn and of course our daughter!

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!

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