History
Nestling amongst the cobbled streets of historic Rye, this ancient inn is reputed to be one of the most haunted pubs in England. Originally dating from 1156, the Mermaid was rebuilt, much as it still stands today, as the principal Inn of Rye. Not only were ships' timbers used in the construction but also baulks of Sussex Oak.

Mermaid Street, formally Middle Street, was the main entrance from the sea through the Strand Gate. The anchorage below Mermaid Street had 20 feet of water at high tide, with space for over one hundred ships to anchor off the Quay. Rye was a big smuggling locale, and it can be considered that the Mermaid was involved in this trade.

Phenomena
Amongst the strange occurrences at the Mermaid Inn, guests have spotted a lady by the fireplace and found dry clothes left by the fire have becomesoaking wet. In Room Five a maid is said to haunt the room where she was murdered by smugglers, while a vision of men fighting has been seen in the Elizabethan Room. The inn also has other phantom duellists, while along the corridor in Room 17 a chair is said to rock by itself.

Investigation
Derek picks up the duellists, said to haunt the building and also a woman with child sitting in a rocking chair. He feels she has some connection with local smugglers and a man called George. The vigils begin in the Elizabethan Room, where a door appears to open by itself. Derek identifies a bearded spirit who has entered. In another bedroom, footsteps and creaking are heard and it appears that someone tries to open the door, though no one is near. Light anomalies are also recorded in this location.