International writers are following in the footsteps of Agatha Christie after being selected for a new residency at the famous authors former holiday home at Greenway.

The September residency marks a new partnership between the National Trust and Exeter UNESCO City of Literature, celebrating Devon’s literary heritage and its links to an international network of writers and readers.

Greenway, Christie’s former holiday home on the River Dart, is now cared for by the National Trust and offers visitors the chance to explore the house and gardens which inspired the Queen of Crime.

September also marks 136 years since Christie was born.

Three writers were selected from more than 49 applicants across 22 cities for the first Greenway Residency.

Aining Wen, a children’s book author and illustrator from Nanjing, China, has published and translated more than 30 picture books into five languages.

She will be joined by Judith Rossell from Melbourne, Australia, an award-winning illustrator and author who has written 18 books and illustrated more than 80. Her work has been translated into 20 languages.

The third resident is Dr Manjiri Prabhu from Kozhikode in India, an internationally acclaimed and award-winning writer of 24 books.

She is the first female mystery author from India to be published internationally and is also a short-film maker.

The writers will spend two weeks at Greenway, drawing inspiration from the house, gardens and surrounding landscape.

Greenway’s general manager Gary said: “This is a place with a deep connection to writing, and it’s inspiring to see that tradition continue with these international writers staying on site for two weeks.

“Their presence brings fresh energy and new perspectives, and we can’t wait to see how Greenway’s atmosphere and history shape the work they create.”

The residency is part of Exeter’s UNESCO City of Literature status, which it has held since 2019.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to experience Greenway during a series of events this month.

Between September 12 and 21, Greenway will be open for free as part of Heritage Open Days.

Visitors can also “Be a writer for the day” between September 12 and October 16, with writing activities inspired by Christie and her surroundings.

Prompts around the house and garden invite visitors of all ages to develop ideas, draw, create stories and add their work to the “tall tales” trees.

Greenway was a source of inspiration for Christie, who used places and locations around the River Dart in some of her books.

There will also be a series of special evening events.

“Agatha Christie’s Greenway: An evening in the garden she loved” takes place on September 14 from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, offering visitors the chance to explore the garden and Christie’s life through two curated guided tours.

On September 15 and 16, “Agatha after hours” will offer an evening tour of Greenway House and its collection, including access to items not normally on display.

Another event will explore the garden and landscape that inspired Christie, led by the head gardener, with both evenings ending with a drinks reception and souvenir.

Greenway is open daily until November 1.