Biography of Judith

Owns Mermaid in Rye – although thinks of herself as a custodian as the Mermaid is so old – 600 years, Cellars are 900 years old

Judith has worked at the Mermaid for over 40 years and has owned the hotel for exactly 30 years in June 2023

Her staff are very loyal and often stay for many years. Her housekeeper has stayed 40 years. She is also very dependent on people like the plumber and roofer. Without them the place would fall apart!

The Mermaid has had many famous people to visit, including actors and actresses, footballers and golfers, the royal family

During the 1987 storm when Rye was cut off for days, Judith and her staff had to look after 40 guests. They had no electricity but they did have gas to cook on. 

Audio of interview with Judith