This ad from 1881 is interesting:
"A Retired Captain in the Merchant Service and his Wife, with no family, living amongst some of the prettiest scenery on the South Coast of England, offer a part of their home as FURNISHED LODGINGS. - Further details of Mrs. Parr, The Retreat, Burton Bradstock, near Bridport, Dorset."
The Standard, Friday, Apr. 29, 1881