Mermaid Street
Mermaid Street is a narrow cobbled lane in Rye lined with buildings from the 15th and 16th centuries, built with timber frames and Georgian brick. The overhanging upper floors create a cozy feeling as you walk beneath them, with many houses now serving as small shops, cafés, and residences.
Originally called Middle Street, the lane received its romantic name about 200 years ago from the Mermaid Inn, founded in 1156. The inn burned in 1377, was rebuilt in 1420, and later served as a refuge for Catholics during the Reformation, with secret tunnels running beneath it.
The street's name possibly comes from a legend about a merchant who saw a mermaid in nearby waters. Today, the houses serve as homes, shops, and cafés where locals and visitors gather, giving the street its living character.
The street is steep and cobbled, so wear comfortable shoes and plan for slow walking. There is no parking on the street itself, but nearby car parks such as Rye Heritage Centre or Strand Quay are available for visitors.
The Mermaid Inn contains a network of secret tunnels beneath the building dating to the 14th century, reportedly used by smugglers like the Hawkhurst Gang. These underground passages ran beneath the town and were legendary for moving illegal alcohol and goods.
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