A Grade II listed mansion where Charles Dickens wrote David Copperfield has knocked £2 million off its sale price after failing to find a buyer.

Bleak House, a seven-bedroom guesthouse which overlooks Broadstairs town and beach, has been put on the market for £3 million by Christie & Co.

The famous building, where Dickens lodged during the summer months, had been on the market for £5.2 million when it was up for sale with estate agents Terence Painter in March.

It had been trying to sell the site since the previous October.

Built in 1801, the mansion with staff quarters failed to sell in 2014 when it was put on the market for £2 million.

It has been under its present ownership since 2005.

Andrew Moore at Christie & Co said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to buy what must be one of the most historic properties associated with Charles Dickens and as such, only adds to its further interest as a business opportunity for a hands on owner, or indeed as a private residence.”

Bleak House is a popular wedding venue with two licensed rooms for ceremonies and a restaurant and tea room.

It seats 65 guests or has room for up to 200 in a marquee.

Dickens wrote David Copperfield at the estate in Fort Road – when it was known as Fort House – in 1851.

It’s also believed to have been the inspiration behind the book that shares its name.