Step behind closed doors for Heritage Open Days
Historic buildings, hidden gems and fascinating stories will once again take centre stage this September.
Heritage Open Days returns, inviting people across the country to discover places and experiences that are normally closed to the public, completely free of charge.
Founded in 1994, the festival has spent more than 30 years bringing England’s history and culture to life.
This year’s theme is ‘Everyday Histories’, which celebrated the ordinary people whose stories have helped shape the places we live today.
In Lyme Regis, three remarkable buildings with rich local histories will open their doors to the public.
Belmont
On Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September, visitors are invited to explore Belmont, the elegant Grade II listed villa overlooking Lyme Bay.
Belmont was built in the 18th century and was once home to pioneering businesswoman Eleanor Coade, whose revolutionary artificial stone transformed Georgian architecture across Britain.
More recently, it became the home of internationally acclaimed author John Fowles, where visitors can step inside his former writing room and enjoy the same inspiring sea views that influenced his work.
The house also features a Victorian observatory tower and beautiful gardens heading down towards the Cobb.
The Guildhall
Also opening its doors over the same weekend is the historic Guildhall, the civic heart of Lyme Regis for centuries.
Dating back to the 16th century, the Guildhall remains home to Lyme Regis Town Council and has witnessed generations of local history.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the magnificent main chamber, refurbished in 1887 with its distinctive curved ceiling and ornate wood panelling, along with the mayor’s parlour, which is rarely open to the public.
Lyme Regis Cemetery Chapel
For one day only, on Saturday 12 September, visitors will once again have the opportunity to discover the beautifully restored Lyme Regis Cemetery Chapel.
Built in the 1850s, this little-known chapel is one of the town’s hidden treasures. Its striking decorative stencilled ceiling and wall paintings, originally commissioned by Reverend Charles Myers in 1892, were painstakingly restored in 2019 by local conservation artist Adrian Everitt.
The chapel is rarely open to the public and offers a fascinating glimpse into Lyme’s Victorian heritage.
Last year alone, more than 5,800 events were organised nationwide by 2,500 organisations and 44,000 volunteers, attracting over one million visitors.
Some of those visitors were exploring a heritage site for the first time and most left saying the experience left them feeling prouder of their local area.
Whether you’re discovering a hidden corner of Lyme Regis for the first time or revisiting a familiar landmark with fresh eyes, Heritage Open Days offer a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the buildings, and the stories, that are often hidden out of sight in our beautiful little town.
For more information, or to plan your visit, head to the Heritage Open Days website at www.heritageopendays.org.uk.
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