Mermaid Inn

One of the most famous and photographed of England's ancient inns, this venerable building was a haunt of seafarers from the Cinque Port harbour at the hill-foot. The sea long ago drew back beyond the marshes but the aura of the smuggler's inn remains, with ships' timbers for beams and huge open fireplaces carved from French stone ballast dredged from Rye harbour. A vast inglenook where the infamous Hawkshurst gang warmed themselves also has a hidden priest hole; throughout, tasteful furnishings and antiques pave the way for an inspirational dining experience. British and French-style food is served in both the bar and linenfold-panelled, AA-Rosette restaurant, and under sunshades on the patio. Seafood and local lamb feature strongly on all menus; a Mermaid fish casserole or fricassée of woodland mushrooms at the bar; braised shoulder of Romney Marsh lamb or pan-roasted smoked haddock at the table. Superb wines, local Harvey's beer and exceptional hotel bedrooms are the icing on the cake.