Explore the historic Belmont House with its rich history and sea views during two open days.

The 18th century maritime villa in Lyme Regis, will be opening its doors to the public.

The Grade II* listed property once belonged to businesswoman Eleanor Coade, who established a successful artificial stone business and made architectural embellishments from Coade stone, which led to it being used in many UK regency buildings.

She was given Belmont House in 1784.

More recently it was the home of John Fowles, author of The French Lieutenant’s Woman.

The home has been restored to its appearance in Mrs Coade’s day and visitors will be able to sit in John Fowles’ former writing room. In the garden there is a Victorian observatory tower with a hatched revolving roof.

The home will be open on September 7 and 8 from 10am to 4pm. Admission is free.