One of Dorset's finest Georgian manor houses is opening its house and gardens to the public to raise funds for charity.

Smedmore House near Kimmeridge will be open on Saturday, June 10 from 2pm to 5pm in aid of Weldmar Hospicecare.

The money raised from the event will help Weldmar Hospicecare to continue to provide specialist care for adults in Dorset living with a life limiting illness, and support for their loved ones.

Admissions to the garden will be £6 on the door, with the house tours available for an additional fee.

Children under 16 can attend the event for free. The fun packed day will also feature vintage cars, cream teas, and a variety of stalls and activities including traditional games. Music will be provided by the Swanage Town Band.

House tours will be conducted by the owner of Smedmore House, well-known historian Dr. Philip Mansel. He will be joined by members of his family who are also very knowledgeable about the house's history and contents.

Philip said: "We are delighted to welcome back Weldmar, working with them to support their vital work through fundraising at our Open Day in June.

"We are committed to supporting Weldmar, especially Weldmar at Home. Weldmar's hospice at home service recently launched and is now being established in the Purbeck area, providing the highest standards of care, day and night for patients and their loved ones."

The original Smedmore House was constructed in about 1610, with the Queen Anne garden façade and elegant Georgian bays added in the 1700s. The house contains a variety of interesting objects including a chair that was used by Napoleon whilst on St Helena. The grounds of the house contain two acres of walled flower gardens, orchards, and a Mediterranean garden.

April Whitehead, Major Gifts and Partnerships Lead at Weldmar, said:, "It is wonderful that Smedmore House are hosting an open house and gardens event for us again. It will be a great day out, with lots for visitors to see and do. We are grateful for their continued support, and putting on an amazing event in aid of Weldmar Hospicecare, helping to fund our services within the local community."

More information about the event can be found at smedmorehouse.com