The English county of Hampshire, just outside London, is where Jane Austen wrote most of her novels, and it’s also where she died at the age of just 41. Jane was born on December 16th 1775, at Steventon Rectory in Hampshire. She was the seventh child of the Reverend George Austen and his second wife, Cassandra Leigh. Although Austen’s work was not widely known during her own life time, her novels of comedy and romance set amongst the landed gentry of 18th century England skyrocked to fame in the 20th century. Today Austen has fans the world over, captivated by the intelligence and wit of her writing. Hampshire’s houses, countryside and people provided the impetus for Austen’s novels. And for those inspired by Pride & Prejudice, Sense & Sensibility and many others, a trip to Austen’s Hampshire is a truly inspiring experience.
Jane Austen (1775–1817).
Jane Austen’s Home
Perhaps the most treasured Jane Austen location is her home. In 1806 Jane’s mother and her daughters moved to Southampton, and then in 1809 to the village of Chawton, where they had a cottage on one of Edward’s (Jane’s brother) Hampshire estates. It was here, between 1810 and 1817, that Jane devoted herself to her writing.
Today visitors can walk through Jane Austen’s House Museum (known as Chawton Cottage) and stand in the rooms where Jane lived with her mother and sister, spending her days writing Mansfield Park, Emma and Persuasion (her final novel). You can visit Jane’s bedroom, which is still intact and dressed as it was. And visitors can also enjoy a continuously changing display of works from the library’s unique collection of women’s writing. Located in the village of Chawton, Hampshire, the nearest major road is A31. The museum is open seven days a week from 11am to 4.30pm.
Winchester
In 1817, Jane Austen was only 41 when she began suffering from Addison's disease. She left her home in Chawton and journeyed 17 miles to Winchester for treatment. She began living in College Street, with her sister Cassandra. Together they were hopeful that Jane could get help from the newly established Winchester Hospital. Sadly Jane passed away. She was buried in the Cathedral at Winchester. Her funeral was attended by just four people, and took place early in the morning, as a very modest affair.
The memorial brass plaque dedicated to Jane Austen at Winchester Cathedral.
And it’s incredible that her original memorial has no mention of her writing. In 1872 a brass plaque was erected, outlining her works (above). And today there is an illustrated exhibition adjacent to her grave. But whether you’re a Jane Austen officiando or not, Winchester is truly a stunning city, with plenty to see and do.
Today Jane Austen is a household name, and one of the best-known and most celebrated authors in the world. There is no better way to commemorate and celebrate her work than by visiting her homeland of Hampshire. There you will gain a new understanding and appreciation for the passion and imagination of her incredible storytelling.