In our review, we found this 16th-century inn to be a cozy spot in historic Rye, with comfy rooms and a prime location by the river.
It’s a great jumping-off point for exploring the area on foot or venturing out to nearby castles. The inn dishes up tasty meals and keeps you connected with free Wi-Fi.
While the place oozes charm, light sleepers might find the creaky old floors a bit noisy.
Also, parking can be tricky during busy times.
This riverside retreat is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers who want to soak up the local atmosphere.
If you’re after a peaceful base to discover Rye’s nooks and crannies, or just want to kick back with a pint in a storied setting, this could be your ideal home away from home.
Good To Know

- The Ship Inn is located in the historic town of Rye, offering picturesque charms and convenient access to Eurotunnel UK and Leeds Castle.
- The inn provides a variety of accommodation options, including Double Rooms and One-Bedroom Suites, with essential amenities and a full English or Irish breakfast.
- Onsite amenities include free WiFi, an on-site restaurant and bar, and family-friendly rooms, catering to diverse guest needs.
- Guests praise the inn’s cleanliness, comfort, and friendly staff, resulting in a high overall rating of 8.3/10.
- The inn’s central location in Rye allows easy exploration of the town’s medieval architecture and nearby attractions, such as Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.
Destination Overview

The Ship Inn occupies an excellent location in the historic town of Rye, situated along the scenic Strand. Rated 9.4/10 for its location, it’s ideal for walking and exploring the area.
The inn is conveniently close to the Eurotunnel UK (26 miles) and Leeds Castle (28 miles), making it a great base for travelers. On top of that, London Gatwick Airport is just 66 miles away, providing easy access for those arriving by air.
With its charming setting and convenient location, the Ship Inn offers an appealing destination for guests seeking to experience the picturesque charms of Rye.
Accommodation Details

At the Ship Inn, guests can choose from a variety of accommodation options, including Double Rooms with Private Bathrooms and One-Bedroom Suites.
All rooms are equipped with essential amenities such as:
- Flat-screen TVs
- Desks and seating areas
- Tea and coffee making facilities
The inn also offers free WiFi, family rooms, and a restaurant and bar on-site.
Guests can start their day with a full English or Irish breakfast.
With a 9.4/10 rating for location, the Ship Inn is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the charming town of Rye and the surrounding areas.
Onsite Amenities

Along With the comfortable accommodations, The Ship Inn offers a range of onsite amenities to enhance guests’ stays. The inn features free WiFi, providing connectivity throughout the property. Families are welcome, with family rooms available. Guests can enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant and unwind with a drink in the bar. Non-smoking rooms are provided for those who prefer a smoke-free environment.
| Amenities | Details |
|---|---|
| WiFi | Free throughout the property |
| Dining | On-site restaurant and bar |
| Families | Family rooms available |
| Smoking | Non-smoking rooms offered |
| Accessibility | Upper floors accessible by stairs only |
Guest Experiences

Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff at The Ship Inn, who earn a high 9.2/10 rating for their attentiveness.
The rooms are also noted for their cleanliness and comfort, scoring 8.9/10 and 8.8/10 respectively.
The overall dining experience, including the quality of the full English/Irish breakfast, receives positive feedback from guests.
Key factors that contribute to the inn’s high 8.3/10 overall rating include:
- Excellent location, ideal for walking and close to major transport links
- Clean, comfortable rooms with good amenities
- Friendly, helpful staff and quality dining options
Policies and Restrictions
The Ship Inn generally has flexible check-in and check-out times, with guests able to arrive any time from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM and depart by 11:00 AM. Minimum age for check-in is 18 years old. Pets are allowed, with a charge of £20 per dog per stay, and a maximum of two dogs per room. The accommodation’s accessibility is limited, as the upper floors are only accessible by stairs.
| Policies | Details |
|---|---|
| Check-in | 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
| Check-out | 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
| Age Restriction | Minimum 18 years old |
| Pets | £20 per dog per stay, max 2 per room |
Nearby Attractions
Beyond the comfortable accommodations and friendly staff, The Ship Inn offers guests a prime location to explore the historic town of Rye and its surrounding attractions.
Situated just a short distance from the Eurotunnel UK and Leeds Castle, the inn provides easy access to a wealth of cultural and natural sights. Visitors can enjoy the charming medieval architecture of Rye, stroll along the picturesque harbor, or venture out to nearby nature reserves like Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.
The inn’s central location makes it an ideal base for discovering the region’s rich history and scenic landscapes.
- Explore the medieval town of Rye with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
- Visit the nearby Rye Harbour Nature Reserve for birdwatching and coastal walks.
- Discover the grandeur of Leeds Castle, a magnificent 12th-century castle just 28 miles away.
Transportation Options

How does one get to The Ship Inn? The inn’s excellent location makes it easily accessible by various means of transportation.
Being just 26 miles from the Eurotunnel UK and 28 miles from Leeds Castle, it’s well-connected to major regional landmarks.
While the inn doesn’t offer on-site parking, there are pay-and-display spaces available nearby.
For those arriving by air, London Gatwick Airport is 66 miles away, providing a convenient gateway.
The inn’s central position in the historic town of Rye also makes it an ideal destination for exploring the local area on foot, with the Strand and nearby attractions within easy walking distance.
Additional Services
Aside from the comfortable accommodations and amenities, The Ship Inn offers additional services to enhance guests’ experiences.
While the inn doesn’t have on-site parking, it’s easy to find nearby pay-and-display spaces. The cancellation policies vary by room type, so guests should check the conditions when booking.
Plus, The Ship Inn can accommodate guests who speak English.
For those seeking more accessibility, it’s important to note that the upper floors are only accessible by stairs.
The inn welcomes well-behaved dogs for an additional charge of £20 per dog per stay, with a maximum of two dogs per room.
Questions About Staying Here

Is There a Bus or Train Station Nearby?
There are no bus or train stations mentioned in the details provided. However, the hotel’s location is described as excellent for walking, and it’s close to transportation hubs like the Eurotunnel UK and Leeds Castle.
Can I Order a Packed Lunch for a Day Trip?
You can order a packed lunch for a day trip from the inn’s restaurant. They offer this service to guests, allowing you to enjoy your meals while exploring the local area.
Is There a Map of Local Hiking Trails Available?
The hotel does not provide maps of local hiking trails, but the staff can likely offer recommendations and directions for popular walking routes in the area surrounding the inn. Guests are encouraged to inquire at the front desk for more information.
Do You Have High Chairs Available for Families?
The Ship Inn offers high chairs for families dining at the on-site restaurant. Guests can request these accommodations when making their reservation or upon arrival to ensure the availability of family-friendly amenities during their stay.
Can I Get an Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
Early check-in or late check-out may be possible, but it’s subject to availability and additional fees. Guests should contact the hotel directly to inquire about flexibility with check-in and check-out times.
Worth The Stay
The Ship Inn offers travelers a charming and comfortable stay in the picturesque town of Rye. With its excellent rating, well-appointed rooms, and range of modern amenities, it caters to the needs of both solo wanderers and families. Whether you’re exploring local attractions or simply relaxing, the inn promises a memorable experience. Its convenient location and transportation options make it an ideal choice for those seeking a cozy and enjoyable stay.
