Old Monmouth Hotel, History.

The Old Monmouth Hotel is situated in the heart of Lyme Regis only 100 yards from the sea and a few minutes walk from the harbour, town centre, gardens and beaches.

The Hotel was established in 1630 as a coaching inn on nearly one acre. In 1644 Lyme proved it's independence at the siege when the Royalists marched away after two months resistance by the people of Lyme, the women standing beside the men, loading and firing muskets.

James Scott, Duke of Monmouth landed near the Cobb in 1685 to launch his attempt on the crown of his uncle James II. Monmouth's cavalry stayed at this hotel with Lord Grey.Lyme paid for it's dissenting after the battle of Sedgemoor at the Bloody Assize when Judge Jeffrey's (The Hanging Judge) exacted retribution.

During the 1750's local politicians and the customs service became corrupt and tunnels were dug connecting the building with the Tudor House and the Parish Church to avoid duty.

Through the 1850's the building was known as the White Hart Commercial Inn. In 1891 the premises were visited by Oscar Wilde and as the fashion of the time signed graffiti on a window. In 1910 the property was sold as the Glenmire Guest House for £400 and was later used as a doctor's surgery.In the 1930's it was the home of the owner of the Gables next door. In 1940's the Old Monmouth Hotel again saw military activity.The British army requisitioned the building. The American army also used it as headquarters and officer housing. It was returned to original usage as a hotel in 1945.

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