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Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Originally, dating from 1156, the Mermaid was rebuilt in 1420, much as it still stands today, as the principal Inn of Rye. The Mermaid now caters for those who appreciate tradition and charm, coupled with the modern facilities required by today's guest. So, from a picturesque cobbled street; step back in time to experience the unique atmosphere of one of England's oldest and loveliest Inns.
This summary was created by AI, based on 88 recent English reviews.
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The Mermaid Inn, lauded for its fabulous location near Rye town, antique shops, and historic sites, is a favorite among travelers. Guests often note the spotless rooms and highlight the hotel's warm and historic atmosphere, enhanced by features like oak paneling and open fires. However, the noise level is a common complaint, with noise from various sources disturbing guests.
While many find the hotel's value satisfactory, some have had issues that affected their perception of worth. Lastly, the rooms, full of historical charm, may lack modern comforts and feel a bit cramped to some.
Location
Central
Atmosphere
Charming
Rooms
Historical
Value
Satisfying
Cleanliness
Immaculate
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Outstanding
Location
Central
Reviewers laud the hotel's location as fabulous and perfect, citing its proximity to Rye town, antique shops, and historic sites.
David L
Aug 2023 • 191 contributions
...But thats purely down to the location, cannot be helped...
Adiner227
Jul 2023 • 16 contributions
This is a fascinating historic building in a perfect location in Rye...
jacek101
Jun 2023 • 72 contributions
...We stayed at the Inn one night, and we loved the charm of this medieval Inn, with a wonderful location in Rye...
Go595616
Jun 2023 • 11 contributions
...Also the location is good for sightseeing and shopping...
LUCY M
Mar 2023 • 87 contributions
...Location is full of charming properties and steeped in history...
NickpMi
Sep 2022 • 8 contributions
...A little pricey I'd say , however it's a one off , location was idikic enabling us to wonder around the old harbour town visiting Antique halls and shops .before venturing home ...
NickpMi
May 2022 • 8 contributions
...With the thoughts of ghosts lurking in the corners kind of mafevus snuggle up closer Location fabulous , central to visit Rye town...
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Atmosphere
Charming
Travelers frequently describe the hotel's atmosphere as warm, cosy and full of historic charm, with unique features like oak paneling, open fires and period furniture adding to the ambiance.
Slick D
Sep 2023 • 30 contributions
...It looks fabulously aged and has many unique features like the huge inglenook fire place in the bar...
norman W
Jun 2023 • 1786 contributions
...The woodwork in this building was outstanding as was the bric-a-brac all around. Wonderful room once you got used to the fact that the floors are not level... The dining room was a sight to behold... Wonderful white linen and a beautiful plate as a setting...
jacek101
Jun 2023 • 72 contributions
...The inn is truly charming, but the service was rather distant and not very attentive...
JUSTINE W
Apr 2023 • 22 contributions
...This inn is amazing,historic,full of character,like nothing has changed in centuries.The cobble Street,the pretty village with little shops ,pubs and cafes all add to the atmosphere. The inn is in time with the period it was built,friendly professional staff,clean rooms ,cosy and if your lucky or unlucky some ghostly guests...
Nicole S
Apr 2023 • 7 contributions
...Yes the floorboards creaked and the floor wasn’t straight but that’s part of its charm...
Scott F
Mar 2023 • 1 contribution
...The property offers several well appointed sitting areas as well as a well stocked bar and restaurant -- most being warmed by open fires...
Howard W
Mar 2023 • 18 contributions
Two very enjoyable days spent in Rye at the Mermaid Inn, which is very quaint, quirky and creaky...
Tom W
Mar 2023 • 44 contributions
...There is a slight mustiness, about the room maybe part of the charm and the windows really let the air in... The ambiance of the bar was fine and a lovely roaring fire...
Kentish Lass
Feb 2023 • 13 contributions
...A lovely friendly environment for a tipple. The Linen Fold Panelled Restaurant has a unique atmosphere with the tables all laid immaculately with white linen, love this...
Glenis L
Feb 2023 • 31 contributions
...Lounges with comfy sofas, an open fire, (useful in view of our heating) wonderful furniture and almost too much historical interest...
Rosy Glow
Feb 2023 • 13 contributions
...The atmosphere might be chilly but the building was very Warm & Cozy...
ABEONAS
Feb 2023 • 4502 contributions
...The Mermaid oozes history and has a great atmosphere. The bar has an excellent fire place...
daveycaferacer
Jan 2023 • 22 contributions
...The restaurant has a wonderful atmosphere, just the right lighting and carpet so unlike most pubs and restaurants you don't feel like you are dining in an aircraft hangar and can have a civilised conversation with your fellow diners without resorting to shouting...
Paul Campbell
Jan 2023 • 658 contributions
...The restaurant itself is dark wood panelled with dried hops adorning the ceiling, open fires cracking away, all very Tudor esq perfect for a winters day. Tables are set with crisp white linen and silver napkin rings...
john w
Dec 2022 • 281 contributions
...The wall panels are hand painted in places like in medieval times and panelled from later Georgian periods... The bar being warm and cosy with the inglenook fire on, there are snug rooms and lounge to drink also if the bar area is busy...
Hornbeams
Dec 2022 • 87 contributions
...We were in the Kingsmill, one of the oak panelled four-poster rooms which appear to be almost as they were in the 15th century... The dining rooms were beautiful and the menus superb... No schmaltzy piped Christmas music (no piped music at all, thank goodness), no 'santa hats' for the staff...
julie g
Dec 2022 • 11 contributions
...I have been staying at the Mermaid for 14 years , usually in December as it’s always so Cosy with a festive atmosphere As usual our stay was wonderful, room , food , staff all amazing , the icing on the cake for me this time was the 2 lovely ladies in reception, who helped me and my auntie when I couldn’t get a cab from the hotel to the train station , having 2 cases and my auntie who Finds walking any distance difficult...
ClaireandJim
Nov 2022 • 90 contributions
...The building is ancient and the furniture and fittings fit beautifully. Our room was on the front and had all the old world charm that we could have imagined... There are also 2 small lounges that are very cosy with their own log fires... Real linen napkins and table cloths that make a real difference...
John W
Oct 2022 • 25 contributions
...Staying in this historic inn was a delight, the furnishings throughout added to the 16th century experience...
scarletcatrufus
Oct 2022 • 61 contributions
Absolutely loved our overnight stay at this charming Inn. The staff were extremely helpful and friendly, the breakfast was superb, and the atmosphere is both inviting and like going back to a gentler time...
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Rooms
Historical
Rooms are appreciated for their historical charm and character, but some guests find them small, noisy, and lacking modern comforts.
Slick D
Sep 2023 • 30 contributions
...The shower in our room was mildly pathetic and one can have conversation stopped by the sound of flushing toilets behind thin cladding...
David L
Aug 2023 • 191 contributions
Expect wonky rooms, four poster beds and bric a brac everywhere... Our room had all of those things and it was great - we thought that we might hear other guests climbing the stairs and walking the corridors but we slept really well...
RichS87
Jul 2023 • 267 contributions
...It looks and feel like it’s seen the progress of time gone by; the wooden beams, narrow corridors and creaky floorboards... The problem with it being such an old building means you can hear other guests through the walls, the bath/shower is pokey and the rooms, especially during summer, is simply too hot when there isn’t any air conditioning...
keith s
Jul 2023 • 10 contributions
...The bedrooms are on the small side but very well furnished with Wi-Fi tv etc. the only minor downside is the restaurant got very warm and the rooms are also very warm...
rosedecoranddev
Jun 2023 • 8 contributions
...The shower in our four poster room doors leaked and was very small...
norman W
Jun 2023 • 1786 contributions
...Shown to our 4 poster bedded room was an experience on its own... Wonderful room once you got used to the fact that the floors are not level... The dining room was a sight to behold...
Cheryl
Apr 2023 • 3 contributions
...There is literally no sound barrier between you and the adjoining rooms, so you can hear the neighbours conversation clearly (especially after they’ve been drinking and are a tad loud) It’s then a problem when you are next to a room where someone thinks it’s funny to make ‘ghost’ noise’s until early hours... The shower room in our bedroom was poor...
Angela E
Mar 2023 • 1 contribution
...We checked in and a porter took us to our room, we went down to move the car into the car park and was informed they were upgrading our stay, due to there being an issue with the shower in our original room, they moved all our luggage whilst we moved the car! Upgraded to a four poster bed room which was clean and tidy (Georgina)...
Stuart T
Mar 2023 • 2 contributions
...The rooms are all unique & you don't want to leave, which is fortunate as the hotel bars are so cosy & unique...
Ness W
Mar 2023 • 282 contributions
...We had a gorgeous room over looking the cobbled street... Even though my husband has mobility issues he was able to get up the stairs to our room... This hotel has a great atmosphere and a cosy feel...
doggybolt
Mar 2023 • 32 contributions
...My single room was fine for a short stay, but it had a shower and I only take baths, before retiring to bed...
Dolores
Mar 2023 • 69 contributions
...We stayed in room 16 which is a real gem, so beautiful and historic with sloping floors and an amazing 4 poster bed...
AngieF
Feb 2023 • 6 contributions
...Also our room was above the kitchen (room 25) so we had cooking smells and the very noisy extractor fan which was constant from morning until the kitchen closed in the evening...
adrianw891
Feb 2023 • 9 contributions
...However, as a hotel the wonky floors, and creaking everything become a nuisance and make sleeping soundly rather difficult. We were in room 3 and you almost have to cling onto the side of the bed to stay in it, and should anybody be in the room above, it feels like they could be coming through the ceiling whenever they move around...
Glenis L
Feb 2023 • 31 contributions
Stayed for one night in Room 14, twin beds... Lounges with comfy sofas, an open fire, (useful in view of our heating) wonderful furniture and almost too much historical interest... Definately not, but the hotel is unique and has no trouble filling its rooms so it doesnt need us...
Carole
Feb 2023 • 9 contributions
...Such a friendly welcome and personally escorted to our room, after a brief explanation of where all amenities were. I actually expected Miss Marple to materialise into the lovely olde worlde lounges... I ended up booking through Groupon so we weren’t expecting much with regard to our room, but it was ok, small but ok... It echoed around our whole room and bathroom and it went on until midnight... Personally I couldn’t have done a 2nd night in that particular room...
Edward K
Feb 2023 • 68 contributions
...The bedroom are small and quirky, but functional...
Keithlb1
Jan 2023 • 25 contributions
...The standard room was on the small size to be expected in a building of its age... I had enquired about changing room on day 2 but unfortunately the hotel was fully booked for the weekend... As we were leaving a member of reception staff did offer to look to change of room for the last night but by then we had had enough...
myra b
Jan 2023 • 222 contributions
My partner and I stayed here for one night, there was only one room left on the Saturday, the Rye Royal four poster room. It was an amazing historic room with fireplace and creaking and leaning floors... There was a tiny ensuite shower room...
pks28
Sep 2022 • 34 contributions
...My only complaint is I never saw one of the resident Ghosts even though I stayed in one of the haunted rooms Perhaps next time 👻...
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Value
Satisfying
Many travelers found the hotel's value to be satisfactory, offering reasonable pricing for its services. However, some guests had issues that affected their perception of the hotel's worth.
Slick D
Sep 2023 • 30 contributions
The building is unique in its age and character... The restaurant and bar prices were high... A very high class tourist trap...
Hannahlindsay
Aug 2023 • 31 contributions
...All staff friendly , beautiful room with a comfy bed, excellent food and reasonably priced champagne!...
John L
Jul 2023 • 183 contributions
...for polite friendly caring service...
rosedecoranddev
Jun 2023 • 8 contributions
...Unfortunately the dinner and breakfast were disappointing... All the other tables breakfast looked good so a real shame...
Go595616
Jun 2023 • 11 contributions
...You must have the full English breakfast...
Sean S
Apr 2023 • 8 contributions
Used a group on voucher £99 double room B&B fantastic stay staff just brilliant and very accommodating...
Scott F
Mar 2023 • 1 contribution
...Portions were generous and pricing was very competitive, particularly given the cost of living pressures they must face...
Tom W
Mar 2023 • 44 contributions
...When she asked about the car park the curt receptionist stated their car park was full and we would have to park over a mile away drive... We were seated by the draughtiest window in Rye We had the full English and were met by a complete plate of misery... The only saving grace is it was tiny, if I had paid £15 a head (advertised price) I would not be happy... Yes to Rye but no to Mermaid Inn...
Ness W
Mar 2023 • 282 contributions
...It worth trying the fish and chips was great and well worth the money...
Dolores
Mar 2023 • 69 contributions
My husband booked us for a night to celebrate my birthday...
Carole
Feb 2023 • 9 contributions
...I ended up booking through Groupon so we weren’t expecting much with regard to our room, but it was ok, small but ok... Personally I couldn’t have done a 2nd night in that particular room... It probably needs replacing with a memory foam... We decided to eat our dinner elsewhere as the menus did not appeal to ether of us but the breakfast was superb!...
Rosy Glow
Feb 2023 • 13 contributions
Celebrating a Birthday so booked for two nights... To sum up, you must take the time to go and stay at the M Inn Expensive, Yes, but they do offer different tariffs...
Edward K
Feb 2023 • 68 contributions
...The bedroom are small and quirky, but functional...
Kay E
Jan 2023 • 24 contributions
...Dinner was great and fantastic value...
Mrs P
Dec 2022 • 21 contributions
...Early dinner on 30 th December 2022 Waiting staff impeccable well worth the included service charge... But I had for for shJ and my friend a delicious vegetarian dish .The vegetarian choices very good and all day she’s had a nice french flair in addition Good value for 3 courses and wine reasonable value Will definitely go again !...
ClaireandJim
Nov 2022 • 90 contributions
...The building is ancient and the furniture and fittings fit beautifully... The bar menu is mostly traditional and is good value... They made us totally welcome and wish we had booked for two nights...
Niel-Wolverhampton
Nov 2022 • 307 contributions
...They have a good choice of reasonably priced wine...
John W
Oct 2022 • 25 contributions
...We dined on our last evening, wow worth every penny, my venison mains dish was so inventive, with seasonal Autumn mushrooms, we also loved the Jerusalem artichoke starter & Frangipane tart dessert, my partner savoured the Brill dish. The chef knows his stuff - faultless... The bars inglenook fireplace with it's warm blazing log fire was irristible...
NickpMi
Sep 2022 • 8 contributions
...It's cost , delightful, great company and very hospitable staff. A little pricey I'd say , however it's a one off , location was idikic enabling us to wonder around the old harbour town visiting Antique halls and shops .before venturing home ...
Steve E
Sep 2022 • 1 contribution
...The Full English breakfast though was very disappointing, should have had the continental. We've have had a lot better from comparison hotels... to the room, no mention of the 10% service charge that's added to the final bill though, a bit naughty!...
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Cleanliness
Immaculate
Guests frequently praised the hotel's cleanliness, noting spotless rooms, bathrooms, linen and cutlery, and well-maintained ancient building.
Solataire
Aug 2023 • 14 contributions
...The bathroom was a good size and I had a lovely bath with the products provided...
Henry P
Aug 2023 • 62 contributions
...What a lovely quant old quirky hotel, lovely clean room, great friendly helpful staff...
keith s
Jul 2023 • 10 contributions
...The bedrooms are on the small side but very well furnished with Wi-Fi tv etc...
norman W
Jun 2023 • 1786 contributions
...The dining room was a sight to behold. Wonderful white linen and a beautiful plate as a setting...
Lindsay T
May 2023 • 24 contributions
...The glasses in the bar were so clean they shone…such a pleasure to drink out of...
JUSTINE W
Apr 2023 • 22 contributions
...The inn is in time with the period it was built,friendly professional staff,clean rooms ,cosy and if your lucky or unlucky some ghostly guests...
Olwen B
Apr 2023 • 3 contributions
...Our room was clean and comfortable with plenty of character...
何x萱e
Apr 2023 • 7 contributions
...If you are both not taking order, why you guys came!...
Angela E
Mar 2023 • 1 contribution
...The whole place was spotless, the staff are second to none, nothing was too much bother for them and really looked after us during our stay... Upgraded to a four poster bed room which was clean and tidy (Georgina)...
LUCY M
Mar 2023 • 87 contributions
...The dining staff go the extra mile, the cutlery was spotless, want to go back...
Glenis L
Feb 2023 • 31 contributions
...You don't go to a hotel like the Mermaid for sparkle and modern but clean would be good... It is an enormous housekeeping task to keep ancient beams dust free but picture frames arent so difficult... The complementary tea and coffee was plentiful and the toiletries good...
Kentish Lass
Feb 2023 • 13 contributions
...The Linen Fold Panelled Restaurant has a unique atmosphere with the tables all laid immaculately with white linen, love this...
ABEONAS
Feb 2023 • 4502 contributions
...Comfortable bed , decent shower...
Rene M
Jan 2023 • 2 contributions
...Couldn't fault anything room was clean and warm lovely view over the hills...
Keithlb1
Jan 2023 • 25 contributions
Booked a 4 day long weekend for our Wedding anniversary The hotel is clean and the staff friendly...
Paul Campbell
Jan 2023 • 658 contributions
...Tables are set with crisp white linen and silver napkin rings...
Explorer68636011937
Dec 2022 • 1 contribution
...It's a privilege to stay in such a well kept old establishment!...
john w
Dec 2022 • 281 contributions
...The restaurant was properly served silver service styled...
ClaireandJim
Nov 2022 • 90 contributions
...The reception staff were excellent, helping us park in the somewhat compact car park... Real linen napkins and table cloths that make a real difference...
Steve E
Sep 2022 • 1 contribution
Had a great two night stay in an very atmospheric room, which was both clean and comfortable...
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Service
Attentive
The service at the hotel is largely praised for being friendly, attentive, and professional. However, some guests reported occasional neglect and slowness.
David L
Aug 2023 • 191 contributions
...The staff were excellent, uniformly friendly and helpful... Parking is limited and if you can get in you might have to leave your car keys so the staff can shuffle cars around to let people in and out...
Olwen B
Apr 2023 • 3 contributions
...The staff were very friendly and incredibly helpful... We were warned that parking was limited but with help from the staff, who ran the car park like a military operation!, we were able to park on site both nights...
Anthony K
Apr 2023 • 100 contributions
Excellent one night stay... Staff very helpful start to finish, especially with parking which is cleverly done in their own car park...
Tom W
Mar 2023 • 44 contributions
We arrived on Sunday afternoon, there was a cone across the car park entrance so my wife went to reception. When she asked about the car park the curt receptionist stated their car park was full and we would have to park over a mile away drive... However, the Porter over hearing this took upon himself to advise the owner who came out with the Porter and said he would move his car... This chap needs a customer service medal, he kindly carried our luggage to our room The Dr Syn sweet and showed us the secr car et corridor... The morning staff looked miserable and not happy to be there...
Scott F
Mar 2023 • 1 contribution
...One hears stories of staffing challenges at even upmarket restaurants and inns... Staff were well trained and plentiful...
Stephen_C
Mar 2023 • 12 contributions
...The staff are helpful and we found other guests were relaxed and chatty (in contrast to rather soulless business hotels where I've stayed)...
Stuart S
Mar 2023 • 204 contributions
...The bar staff were great, genuinely welcoming, and each time we ended up having great chats with other patrons...
adrianw891
Feb 2023 • 9 contributions
...At breakfast on Monday we had to ask 3 times for coffee, and four times for toast, we were also told they had run out of plates for the buffet part , and therefore we had to use cereal bowls for the croissants etc...
Rosy Glow
Feb 2023 • 13 contributions
...Greeted whilst parking at Mermaid Inn by a lovely young man who came out to direct us and show us the way in. At Reception greeted by yet another charming man who booked us in & explained everything... We thoroughly enjoyed our Spooky Stay plus nothing was too much trouble from all the Staff whom we encountered...
daveycaferacer
Jan 2023 • 22 contributions
...The service was wonderful, only 2 minor points 1. it would be nice of the staff poured the wine periodically and also not have to ask who was having what when the food was served...
john w
Dec 2022 • 281 contributions
...A warm professional welcome at reception, bar and restaurant... The bar is very well stocked and the barman knew how to prepare a Whiskey Mac even!... The restaurant was properly served silver service styled... We all opted for the steak and kidney pudding which was absolutely delightfully traditional, and cooked for us, (if food is being cooked for you-do be prepared to wait a bit)... Part of our party were non alcohol drinkers so it was nice to order a half bottle of good wine for my wife and I... This was a very pleasant experience and as a local will certainly encourage be to return... Thank you Mermaid for making our special event very special...
Hornbeams
Dec 2022 • 87 contributions
...The Christmas day menu included the usual turkey but also beef, lobster and a vegetarian option, all beautifully prepared and presented... You will not go hungry during Christmas at the mermaid... The hotel handled Christmas very well... No schmaltzy piped Christmas music (no piped music at all, thank goodness), no 'santa hats' for the staff... We met a number of people for whom this was a second visit... The staff were efficient, knowledgeable and very pleasant...
Explorer68636011937
Dec 2022 • 1 contribution
...Every staff member we came into contact with was so down to earth and helpful, we felt instantly at home! The bar staff were so friendly and tried their upmost to make us some cocktails, this needs improvement as they offer cocktails in the menu, but they went above and beyond to try and put something together for us!... Breakfast was fresh, delicious and plentiful with super staff... I wouldn't hesitate to book here again, it was just wonderful!...
Mrs P
Dec 2022 • 21 contributions
...Early dinner on 30 th December 2022 Waiting staff impeccable well worth the included service charge...
julie g
Dec 2022 • 11 contributions
...Had a 2 night stay with my 89 year old auntie . I have been staying at the Mermaid for 14 years , usually in December as it’s always so Cosy with a festive atmosphere As usual our stay was wonderful, room , food , staff all amazing , the icing on the cake for me this time was the 2 lovely ladies in reception, who helped me and my auntie when I couldn’t get a cab from the hotel to the train station , having 2 cases and my auntie who Finds walking any distance difficult... They sorted a lift with Judith , the owner of the hotel , who did 2 trips , first dropping me and luggage off and then going back to get my aunt and dropping her off at the station , I’m sure that wouldn’t happen at many hotels... Also the rest of the staff including the domestic staff who are also amazing...
Niel-Wolverhampton
Nov 2022 • 307 contributions
...Breakfast was another success - really top quality ingredients, well cooked and presented. Staff were friendly and helpful and my only reservation abut the trip was that quite a few shops / attractions in the area are closed in November, but I have absolutely no reservations about The Mermaid...
ClaireandJim
Nov 2022 • 90 contributions
...The reception staff were excellent, helping us park in the somewhat compact car park... Breakfast in the dining room was excellent... Real linen napkins and table cloths that make a real difference... The choice of cold meats, breads, pastries, fruit etc, was complemented by an excellent menu of hot choices... The full English and omelette with haddock were both excellent... However, we can't complete the review without giving a big mention to all the staff... They really know their jobs and are friendly, helpful and professional... They made us totally welcome and wish we had booked for two nights...
Maggie May
Nov 2022 • 4 contributions
...The staff were wonderful too - extremely helpful .We wanted to do some walking while we were there and they gave us very useful information on the local area...
TheStateOfMe
Nov 2022 • 200 contributions
...It's a very old building, but ends up offering everything one might expect from a modern establishment, along with some good old fashioned friendly service. Our room was comfortable and warm, the WiFi was good enough for some catch up on iPlayer... Breakfast was excellent, especially the generous serving of tasty smoked salmon that came with my wife's choice...
Steve E
Sep 2022 • 1 contribution
Had a great two night stay in an very atmospheric room, which was both clean and comfortable... The Full English breakfast though was very disappointing, should have had the continental... We've have had a lot better from comparison hotels... One thing to mention, when using the public bar, the barman suggested to us that, as we were residents it might be easier for us to charge drinks etc... to the room, no mention of the 10% service charge that's added to the final bill though, a bit naughty!...
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Amenities
Outstanding
Travelers appreciate the hotel's charming ambiance, excellent service, and the quality of food. However, some found the breakfast and dining experience underwhelming.
Solataire
Aug 2023 • 14 contributions
...We had the warmest of welcomes from the staff who managed to squeeze us into the car park, even though we had fully expected to have to park nearby. Beautiful building with lots of spaces to sit with a drink and the food looked good... The staff were friendly and helpful throughout... There was a fan that helped to cool it down (and a second provided if needed) and of course the windows could be opened - however this was a little noisy with what sounded liked an early delivery and the seagulls... The bathroom was a good size and I had a lovely bath with the products provided... Nice selection of teas in the room too... The cooked and contiental breakfast was average but didn't detract from what was a comfortable stay in a beautiful building right in the centre of this beautiful town...
EilSat
Jun 2023 • 332 contributions
...We were seated in a dining room with several fireplaces... Luncheon menu offered three courses and guests could choose one, two or all three... They served Harvey local ale...
Melbourne3143
Jun 2023 • 10 contributions
I have recently had the joy of a 2 night stay at the atmospheric 14th century Mermaid Inn ... I felt safe and very comfortable in my little room , which had an opening window and quiet fan which was great as weather quite hot ... I loved the bathtub with its easy -to - manage taps !... Reception staff (plus all staff )were friendly and helpful... Delicious meals served in charming dining room ...
Olwen B
Apr 2023 • 3 contributions
We have just spent a lovely couple of nights at The Mermaid Inn. The staff were very friendly and incredibly helpful... Our room was clean and comfortable with plenty of character... It's a very popular Inn and the bar was always busy, so we were very grateful for the residents only lounges...
Anthony K
Apr 2023 • 100 contributions
Excellent one night stay... Lovely room, lots of character... Staff very helpful start to finish, especially with parking which is cleverly done in their own car park... Highly recommend, Rye is stunning also...
Scott F
Mar 2023 • 1 contribution
...Staff were well trained and plentiful... Portions were generous and pricing was very competitive, particularly given the cost of living pressures they must face... The property offers several well appointed sitting areas as well as a well stocked bar and restaurant -- most being warmed by open fires... There is however ample parking around the village a short walk away... The nearby marshes are also of interest, especially if you are a bird lover... Beaches nearby are also top notch... Would happily recommend a stay in Rye at The Mermaid...
Stephen_C
Mar 2023 • 12 contributions
...Our bedroom was warm, comfortable and creaky... The staff are helpful and we found other guests were relaxed and chatty (in contrast to rather soulless business hotels where I've stayed)... The food was excellent, and we ate in the dining room (fantastic rack of lamb for two) and in the bar (fish & chips)...
Stuart S
Mar 2023 • 204 contributions
We stayed three nights in Rye, and ended up coming here 3 times, once for lunch and twice for drinks in the Giant's Fireplace Bar... The bar staff were great, genuinely welcoming, and each time we ended up having great chats with other patrons...
adrianw891
Feb 2023 • 9 contributions
...There seems to be endless stairways and corridors and snug little rooms at almost every turn, and the wonky floors and wood beams really do give you a sense of the age of the place...
Kentish Lass
Feb 2023 • 13 contributions
...Having just enjoyed another delightful stay at the wonderful Mermaid Inn Rye, I have to say all the standards remain consistently high. The staff are always so friendly courteous and helpful... Thanks to Sam for kindly sorting our lunch reservation whilst we enjoyed our drinks... This time of the year the lovely fires are roaring with the homely smell of logs to welcome you... The historic Giants Fireplace in the bar is magnificent, Matt kept it well stoked, with huge logs, very warm and entertaining!... A lovely friendly environment for a tipple... The Linen Fold Panelled Restaurant has a unique atmosphere with the tables all laid immaculately with white linen, love this... Big thanks to all the staff for another lovely ‘reset the batteries’ stay, really couldn’t imagine a better place than our ‘Happy Place’ for another birthday treat...
daveycaferacer
Jan 2023 • 22 contributions
...The restaurant has a wonderful atmosphere, just the right lighting and carpet so unlike most pubs and restaurants you don't feel like you are dining in an aircraft hangar and can have a civilised conversation with your fellow diners without resorting to shouting...
Paul Campbell
Jan 2023 • 658 contributions
Called in for luncheon, small menu, always a sign for great food... The restaurant itself is dark wood panelled with dried hops adorning the ceiling, open fires cracking away, all very Tudor esq perfect for a winters day... Tables are set with crisp white linen and silver napkin rings... If your in the area call in for lunch, but book ahead they are very popular...
Hornbeams
Dec 2022 • 87 contributions
...It is also one of the most beautiful buildings I have stayed in... The bar has the biggest inglenook fireplace I have ever seen with a blazing fire and a fine array of ales including the wonderful Harvey's Best and Harvey's Christmas Ale along with the Mermaid house ale... The dining rooms were beautiful and the menus superb... The Christmas day menu included the usual turkey but also beef, lobster and a vegetarian option, all beautifully prepared and presented... You will not go hungry during Christmas at the mermaid... Just a well-organised, mature and stylish Christmas celebration... The staff were efficient, knowledgeable and very pleasant...
Mrs P
Dec 2022 • 21 contributions
...Early dinner on 30 th December 2022 Waiting staff impeccable well worth the included service charge. Bread on demand another plus !...
john w
Dec 2022 • 281 contributions
...A warm professional welcome at reception, bar and restaurant. The bar being warm and cosy with the inglenook fire on, there are snug rooms and lounge to drink also if the bar area is busy... The bar is very well stocked and the barman knew how to prepare a Whiskey Mac even!... The restaurant was properly served silver service styled... Part of our party were non alcohol drinkers so it was nice to order a half bottle of good wine for my wife and I... This was a very pleasant experience and as a local will certainly encourage be to return...
ClaireandJim
Nov 2022 • 90 contributions
...Stunning hotel with great staff quirky rooms and a unique ambience. We stayed one night B&B but also had a bar meal... The reception staff were excellent, helping us park in the somewhat compact car park... If you have a large SUV you may want to park in the town!... The building is ancient and the furniture and fittings fit beautifully... Our room was on the front and had all the old world charm that we could have imagined... Very comfortable though with an excellent en-suite... The bar menu is mostly traditional and is good value... A good selection of local beers on the pumps and a large log fire meant the bar was a very pleasant place to spend the evening... There are also 2 small lounges that are very cosy with their own log fires... Breakfast in the dining room was excellent... Real linen napkins and table cloths that make a real difference... The choice of cold meats, breads, pastries, fruit etc, was complemented by an excellent menu of hot choices... The full English and omelette with haddock were both excellent... They made us totally welcome and wish we had booked for two nights...
Maggie May
Nov 2022 • 4 contributions
...The room was extremely comfortable and warm. The staff were wonderful too - extremely helpful .We wanted to do some walking while we were there and they gave us very useful information on the local area... Wonderful place for a relaxing break...
TheStateOfMe
Nov 2022 • 200 contributions
Creaky but comfortable might be a good summary for The Mermaid Inn. It's a very old building, but ends up offering everything one might expect from a modern establishment, along with some good old fashioned friendly service... Our room was comfortable and warm, the WiFi was good enough for some catch up on iPlayer... Breakfast was excellent, especially the generous serving of tasty smoked salmon that came with my wife's choice...
JRo
Oct 2022 • 116 contributions
...The staff were welcoming and the room was lovely. Our stay would have been elevated by being seated for dinner and breakfast in the main atmospheric dining room, which is so stunning, rather than in a small side dining room which was quiet and much less atmospheric...
Steve E
Sep 2022 • 1 contribution
Had a great two night stay in an very atmospheric room, which was both clean and comfortable... The Full English breakfast though was very disappointing, should have had the continental... One thing to mention, when using the public bar, the barman suggested to us that, as we were residents it might be easier for us to charge drinks etc...
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There is nowhere else quite like it, it’s unique and the experience of staying there was wonderful. The service was excellent at every point - checkin, room, restaurant, bar, checkout. Staff were friendly and helpful and knowledgeable about the long history of the Mermaid. The room was small but clean and well appointed and exactly as expected from the booking. Despite being the such an old building and staying in December every part of the Mermaid was warm and cosy including the bedroom. There is parking for guests but it’s very small and the spaces are very tight. I’d recommend paying a few quid to park nearby in one of the overnight car parks. The food was excellent with the evening meal a surprise… the vegetarian menu options were some of the best I’ve tasted and definitely not an afterthought as they often are on menus. I would highly recommend a stay here. You might pay a little more than other hotels but it is well worth it. Unforgettable.…
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Date of stay: December 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:Parking in a nearby car park with more space makes sense as it’s cheap and close by.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
After a nice walking tour of Rye our friends suggested a libation c/o Mermaid. We navigated the centuries-old crooked stairs and creaky floorboards to a bar right out of a movie set. Weaponry, portraits of royalty, film stars and wannabes, a majestic fireplace, hops hanging from the ceiling all conspired for a memorable liquid interlude. If you choose to enter/exit by the front (or was it the back?) door definitely mind your head or you will find yourself in need of medical...or an extra cocktail for revival. A must when visiting Rye.
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Date of stay: December 2023
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Trip type: Traveled with friends
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We were lucky enough to stay overnight and also have dinner there. This c1420 pub is truly amazing, full of history and character with every twist and turn of its corridors. Our very spacious room had a four posted bed and a very nice ensuite.Dinner was divine with beautiful china and cutlery, excellent service and the best Pork Belly that we had ever eaten. The pubs floor plan is like a rabbit warren, large rooms, small rooms, wonky stairs and winding corridors which all added to the charm and quirkiness of the building. Interesting little snugs with huge fire places and heavy wood beams. Highly recommend an overnight stay and dinner.
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Date of stay: October 2023
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Trip type: Traveled with family
Room Tip:Book a parking spot as there is not many and parking is tight.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My parents booked the Mermaid Inn for myself, my wife and our French bulldog Cleo as an early Christmas gift. On arrival we were worried as been told the carpark was small and likely not to get a spot. We got a spot, I think we got lucky, but we got in and were greeted by two wonderful porters who made lots of jokes and offered so much help and advice before we even got the luggage out. One of the Porters was Pat and we encountered him lots during our two night stay. Checking in was easy and we left our car keys at reception during the stay so they can move if they need as everyone was blocking each other in. Pat showed us to the room and had a great chat and made a massive fuss of Cleo. The room (22) was a perfect size, not massive and not small. Nice wardrobe and draws space and a little tv. The first night we ate at an Indian around the corner as the restaurant was very busy and only could get us in at 9pm and knowing we had booked the following night already we got on TripAdvisor to find somewhere. Our first night was very cosy and was amazing to hear all the creaks and groans of the beams and floors of the Inn. The hallways continued to amaze me with the wonky walls and uneven floors, such a delight! The carpeted walls were excellent too! We took time during our stay to wander the halls and check out the other room doors, something we really wouldn’t usually do, but felt we had to there as it was like a magical house where every time you went somewhere you noticed something new or almost got lost! Anyways, the first night around 1am the room started to smell like roast dinner…now I’ll say we were the room directly above the kitchen, but it could’ve been something ghostly too as the second night there was no smell at all! It smelt until around 6am and thought it could’ve been as the kitchen was all powered down, but couldn’t really explain, I’m not complaining as it was a nice smell, but spooky haha! The only minor complaint we had was we felt the pillows were a little uncomfortable, but it’s nothing serious and we slept fine regardless! The second night I got out this spirit box thing I have on my phone after we heard some noises before bed and one question I asked was “who is here with us?” And the prompt reply was “Francis” which caught us out as I’m quite skeptical about this stuff, but am open and love it all! The wife is less of a skeptic and I think she laughed with a little worry haha! Another question I got a prompt reply from was “why aren’t you in the room with us now?” And Francis said “the terrain” and again it was very much like a person replied to me. We are 100% coming back in 2024 and already have the ball rolling on it. Plan on getting a more haunted room to scare the wife more and so I can bathe in the history of it all and we want to do the tour as well! The meal in the hotel was top notch and loved it all! The staff in the restaurant are excellent, breakfast was excellent and couldn’t have asked for more. Every member of staff we saw was so nice and knew their stuff! Special mention to Pat who was a jack of all trades it seemed and loved his job. See you soon, love from, David, Angie and Cleo Lillywhite x…
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Date of stay: December 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:Have a plan B for the carpark.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Martin Blincow, Guest Services / Front Office at The Mermaid Inn
Responded 5 days ago
Thank you for your review. It is always exciting when guests engage with The Mermaid.....her history.....her stories.....which makes this Grade II Listed building so special. We will share your fulsome praise with the staff, who always seek to offer friendly attentive service. We look forward to welcoming you again. Why not look on our website where we have all the guidance you need to find a more "haunted room".
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
An experience my wife and I will never forget !!... Absolutely fantastic place to visit and stay . A Christmas treat from my sister celebrating her partner's birthday, six of us stayed at this gem of a venue !! So polite and professional the staff from the reception to the bar staff to the waiters serving our stunning breakfast in the morning. Our room 24 was faultless and was beautifully decorated to enhance the historical period...thank you our stay was amazing !!
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Date of stay: December 2023
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Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:Car park is a bit tricky
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Martin Blincow, Guest Services / Front Office at The Mermaid Inn
Responded 5 days ago
Thank you for your review. We will share your fulsome praise with the staff. Rebuilt in 1420, The Mermaid is indeed a unique experience. We hope we may welcome you again for another "amazing" stay.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Weekend break for some Christmas shopping at the Rye Fair. We have stayed many times and were given a good rate for the room. Bring a small car as all parking in Rye is restrictive - given the age of the town ! Hotel itself has not changed much - new corridor light senors do not help the decor. Bar very busy with passing trade, so much so as to be a real pain for actual residents - a victim of its own success perhaps. Did not book evening meals as were pre booked else where with friends. Bar snacks and room service perfectly good. Breakfast was a huge let down ! This is expensive for non residents and is certainly NOT what it used to be. New Head Chef obviously not on the early shift - all pre prepared en masse and served at various temperatures, to the point that my partner was actually sick shortly after. Would have complained at the time but the Staff are so nice I felt bad upsetting them - easier to not leave the usual tip at reception. Will be checking reviews Judith before booking again…
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Date of stay: December 2023
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Trip type: Traveled as a couple
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Response from Martin Blincow, Guest Services / Front Office at The Mermaid Inn
Responded 6 days ago
The Review Title needs to be substantiated by the evidence contained therein, if the review is to be of value. Stanadards have slipped? Light sensors are a sign of slipping standards? Light sensors ensure there is no wasteful use of energy. The Bar was very busy: Clearly no slipping standards there. Residents have access to 2 lounges. Breakfast is expensive: We challenge you to find a Breakfast in Rye for £15 where you have a Buffet table of cereals, cold meats and cheeses, yoghurt, fruit juices, pastries and a cooked breakfast , all served on crisp white linen, in a 600 year old room, beatifully maintained. That morning 61 people ate Breakfast. All of our staff ate the Breakfast, including the Head Chef who has just celebrated one year with us. Have you contacted the place you dined the previous evening? If you had only spoken with us, Judith and the Head Chef could have shown you yesterday morning the Kitchen to help you see the reality, and not the assumption. The only standards that have seemed to slip, are the accuracy and quality of the review.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I made a booking at the Mermaid to celebrate my wife's birthday. As there is limited parking at the hotel I asked if there was disabled parking and they said yes but had to be booked in advance which they did. We knew that the hotel dated back over 600 years and so would be somewhat limiting to both of us due to our age and incapacities. However we were bought up short by just how limiting the building and facilities were. This is no fault of the management or any of the staff who ere magnificent sorting out a different room, parking our car in the appropriate space and generally making our stay a memorable one. Food and service is exultant and any difficulties we encountered were due to own incapacities. Many thanks Mermaid.
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Date of stay: November 2023
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Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:Due to its location its not easy to find if your relying on your sat nav. a GPS or what three...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Martin Blincow, Guest Services / Front Office at The Mermaid Inn
Responded 1 week ago
Thank you for your review. We will share your fulsome praise with the "magnificent staff". In particular we will share with the Head Chef and his team. The Mermaid is the perfect place to create long lasting memories.....so glad we were able to help you create your special memories.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The setting and history of the place is amazing. Booked via secret escape at a good price. I would have been upset if I had paid full price as unfortunately the hotel is lacking in some of the finer details. On the plus is the free parking, first come first serve as quite small, the lovely bar and the cosy lounges. Loved the quirkiness. Breakfast fast tasty and good. Where it’s lacking on the smaller details is: A toilet seat in our bedroom that doesn’t fit the toilet pan. Fake flowers at tables in dining room. Bar area wasn’t busy but glasses weren’t cleaned quickly and tables were quite sticky. Some of the reception staff could have been a little bit more welcoming. But overall a lovely place.
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Martin Blincow, Guest Services / Front Office at The Mermaid Inn
Responded 2 weeks ago
Thank you for your review. Imagine escaping to a unique 600 year old hotel........ camera in hand.........what memories do I capture.....maybe the large inglenook fireplace with a roaring log fire......the murals painted by the Slade School of Art..........the 900 year old cellars....Mermaid Street, the most photographed street in the UK. Instead an image of a table decoration and a toilet in the en suite are captured. If anybody has an interest in toilet architecture, we can always show the secret passageway between Rooms 15 and 16 where there is a medieval toilet. It is always interesting to see different perspectives.......and through which end of the lens we experience life.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This is an amazing building. We liked the history of the place. Our room was large and characterful. Unfortunately we found it very noisy. We understand an old historic building can not be sound proof and we expected creaky floorboards and some noise. What we weren't prepared for was the thoroughfare outside our room and the word for word conversations we could hear from both the reception area and the bar. Luckily this noise did die down and it was relatively quiet overnight. We dined in the restaurant and the food was excellent. We were disappointed that our starter was served so quickly that arrived with our drinks and before the bread. The staff were very obliging and took them away until we had been served the bread. After our starter we asked for a fifteen minute gap before our mains. Again the staff were very obliging but every table around us had their mains brought out within a few minutes of the starters being cleared. I ordered a glass of wine which was brought from the bar and was not served cold. The waiter took it away and replaced it with one from the restaurant fridge which he said was colder. It is shame that these small attentions to detail distracted from what could have been a magical stay. …
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Martin Blincow, Guest Services / Front Office at The Mermaid Inn
Responded 2 weeks ago
Thank you for your review. Rebuilt in 1420, The Mermaid has retained all of her historic charms thanks to 30 years of loving stewardship by the present owners. The historic design does make The Mermaid unique in so many ways, unlike any other hotel. We will share your praise for the excellent food with the Head Chef of our 2 AA Rosette Restaurant. We note your observation regarding service and we will share these with the Restaurant Manager. We hope we may welcome you back to this "Beautiful Building".
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Plusses for me were Pre communication was good, charlotte helped me arrange parking at the venue. I came to reception, the lady was lovely and helpful and the porter carried my bag up which was nice of him. The room was lovely, bed was comfortable, plenty of tea and coffee, room was spotless. The bar was nice, Matt was a real character, friendly funny and a joy to talk to. Theres no shower in the room just a bath which disappointed me but that’s just my preference. Negatives: My partner and I decided to book the restaurant and didnt realise the menu in the room was different so it was far more upmarket. I wanted the Pork Belly but not all that went with it and the gentleman in the suit was quite rude telling me the chef wont be happy if he has to take things off the menu. I shouldnt of felt guilty and the lady on the table next to me was amazed how he said it. Im the customer so i dont expect to be told what i would like is a problem and eventually after he told he the chef said it was ok, i was halfway through my meal before i had any sauce. I wasnt best please to find a £12 Service charge on my bill but paid it. Should I return I wont be visiting the restaurant again. This didnt sour my overall experience as the actual location, room, was very nice and i spoke to several people in the bar and they weren’t surprised i wasnt happy with the restaurant and the person who took my order. …
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Date of stay: November 2023
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Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Martin Blincow, Guest Services / Front Office at The Mermaid Inn
Responded 2 weeks ago
Thank you for your review. We will share your praise with the Reception team regarding the communication, and the Porters, Bar Staff and the Housekeeping team. The Mermaid is 600 years old, sitting at the heart of the medieval citadel of Rye. Its' historic nature means we are unable to offer a shower in every room, but our website has images of each of our 31 Bedrooms, allowing guests to book a specific room to meet individual requirements. It seems there was a breakdown in communication regarding the Restaurant. We offer two menus, Restaurant Menu and Bar Menu. These can be found in the Room Folder, our website, Reception, Bar and outside Menu Cases, and are all up to date. The Duty Manager in the Restaurant clearly mis-communicated his humour, He is a long serving member of staff, who regularly ensures elements of dishes can be removed, as all our Menus are prepared and served to order by our team of Chefs. On the bottom of the Menu it states; "A discretionary 10% added for good service." We were interested to see you carried out a straw poll of guests in the Bar........we always read all our reviews......we suggest guests should look at our Open Table site for our ongoing reviews, such as.... "Fine dining in beautiful old building at affordable prices. Came for dinner during a mid-week break in Rye, the staff were friendly and attentive without being over-bearing, good selection of seasonal food cooked to a high standard." "The food was amazing I had a starter and main but was stuffed after my husband had a starter but he didn’t fancy anything off the main menu so they let him have a main off the bar meal which he said was equally excellent and he’s hard to please"
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.