Touring Jane Austen's Hampshire

2013 marks the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen's 'Pride & Prejudice'.

One of Hampshire's well-known 'daughters', the author was born and is buried in this stunning county. Hampshire was also the inspiration for many of her famous novels, and it only takes a visit here to see why - quaint little towns, the dramatic South Downs landscape and historic Winchester.

From her earlier home in Steventon, near Basingstoke, she wrote the first drafts of 'Northangar Abbey', 'Sense & Sensibility' and 'Pride & Prejudice'. Many of the novels were finished at her last home in Chawton, near Alton, which now houses a museum dedicated to the Austen family.

With 2013 being the 200th anniversary of the first publication of 'Pride & Prejudice there will be a year-long series of events at the Jane Austen House Museum in Chawton. The house now contains many of the Austen's belongings as well as some original letters and manuscripts. To mark the anniversary the museum is hosting a series of talks, workshops and events during 2013.

Jane also spent her last days in Winchester, close to the Cathedral, where she was laid to rest. Throughout the year the Cathedral is running an illustrated exhibition telling the story of Jane's life in Hampshire, from her childhood in Steventon, her writing and life in Chawton, to her final weeks in Winchester.

Suggested campsites for your base in Hampshire:
Morn Hill Caravan Club Campsite, Winchester
College Down Farm CL, Alresford

For more details about Jane Austen's Museum, please visit the website.
For details of Winchester Cathedral's exhibition, please click here.

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