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[Courtyard of the Mermaid Inn, Rye.] 43. [The best view of the Mermaid Inn from the exterior is of the courtyard, which is of typical sixteenth century construction, and has been described as the most photographed inn in Sussex. It is certainly one of the most famous, for as far back as can be traced there has always been a Mermaid Inn at Rye. The town was for many years the headquarters of gangs of smugglers, who committed many violent crimes in the neighbourhood, and who used to frequent this famous inn. Many exciting stories are told of their association with the place. It is reported to have a secret staircase and a hidden well used by the smugglers. Whether all the stories are true or not, the Inn is still a most picturesque and fascinating survival from a very early age.]