The bookshop
A rare opportunity to visit the bindery at one of England’s oldest bookshops. Discover more about this book business, and some of its special customers, including the Austen family.
Mrs Goddard's School
One of the key characters in ‘Emma’ goes to a ‘real, honest, old-fashioned Boarding-school, … where girls might be sent to be out of the way and scramble themselves into a little education’. This was likely inspired by Jane’s own experiences at the Reading Ladies Boarding School. Walk in Jane’s footsteps and seek your own literary inspiration on a visit to one of the remaining school buildings this September.
The 'real' Meryton?!
This ‘neat little town’ was the closest shopping and postal hub for Jane as she grew up – all her letters are postmarked here. So Overton could well be the town she based Meryton on for her famous Bennet sisters in Pride & Prejudice, written during her time in this part of Hampshire. Discover more in a special exhibition, then explore the area with a guided walk, or tour the church where her brother was curate and her father gave services.
The Bridgerton ballroom
The quintessential Regency setting with sweeping staircase and grand ballroom. Check out this beautifully restored Georgian house that Jane is believed to have stayed in on her travels to and from Bath.
Writer's Houses
If you're on the literary trail, flick through our gallery of options below for other writer's homes you could visit this September. Who knows, maybe you'll be inspired to write your own bestseller?!
Nb. Swipe right to see more before you scroll down!
PLEASE NOTE - These events were accurate at the time of publication but details are subject to change. Check the individual entries for more - including any booking details needed.
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