THERE'S a chance to explore the heritage of west Dorset in the coming days with free openings of hidden places and historical buildings.

Heritage Open Days takes place nationwide this month but closer to home there's numerous chances to find out more about the area's fantastic history and culture.

People can see a rare example of a complete mid-19th century mortuary chapel in Chideock.

The Weld Memorial Chapel in North Street will be open on select dates from September 8 to 17. 

This stunning chapel was built by Charles Weld of Chideock Manor in 1852 in memory of his parents. No booking is required to visit.

Elsewhere in Bridport there's a chance to delve into historic buildings including the Quaker Meeting House and the Town Hall in South Street and the Literary and Scientific Institute in East Street.

Over in West Bay, for one day only. the West Bay Discovery Centre will allow access to the small mezzanine level, normally office and kitchen space, on Sunday, September 17.

From here visitors can appreciate the interior of the building and through the windows enjoy the views of the beach and harbour. There will be a large screen slide show of the restoration project. No booking is required.

In Lyme Regis, Belmont House, a fine 18th century maritime villa, will be open on Friday, September 16 and Saturday, September 17 from 10am to 4pm both days. Pre-booking is preferred.

Belmont once belonged to a remarkable businesswoman, Mrs Eleanor Coade, whose famous artificial stonewares transformed late-18th-century architecture, and later to author John Fowles.

Beaminster Museum will also be open on select dates from September 9 to 17. Discover the story of the town and surrounding parishes back through countless generations of rural craftsmen, agricultural labourers and flax dressers before reaching a warm Jurassic sea.

See some spectacular views of Dorset from the Hardy Monument at Black Down near Dorchester, which will be open from September 8 to 10.

Pre-booking is required for this chance to climb to the top of the monument, which was built in 1844 in memory of Vice-Admiral Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy, Flag Captain of HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. 

For more information and exact opening dates and times, see the Heritage Open Days website at www.heritageopendays.org.uk