Hampshire, is the historical birthplace of the literary genius Jane Austen, best known for her works such as ‘Pride and Prejudice’, ‘Sense and Sensibility’ and ‘Emma’, Austen’s stories have travelled the globe but her legacy began in Hampshire in the late 18th century.
As you cross the county line into Hampshire you may see written on the welcome sign ‘Welcome to Jane Austen country’, her name is permanently tied to Hampshire's history, it’s where she was born, where she died, where she wrote many of her greatest works and where she now rests.
If you are planning a trip to Hampshire, are a resident of Hampshire, or just happen to be passing through the area one day, here are some of the most notable places in Hampshire to pay a visit if you are a literary fan with a love for Jane Austen:
1. Chawton house
The village of Chawton rests in the Hampshire countryside, just a few miles from Alton. Once owned by Austen's brother, Edward, Chawton house is where Austen wrote ‘Mansfield park’, ‘Emma’ and ‘Persuasion’. As of the 30th October 2024, adult entrance tickets for the house and the garden cost £12.50, children between the ages of 6-16 cost £6.00, and children under six can enter for free. Family tickets are also available and range from £18-£30. However, these prices are subject to change. Built over 400 years ago in the 1580s, with a rich history and past home of Jane Austen is the perfect spot for all literature lovers and history buffs.
2. Winchester Cathedral
Founded in 1079 with construction finishing 5 centuries later, Winchester Cathedral is the resting place of Jane Austen. Her memorial stone rests on the north nave side of the Cathedral and is easily accessible for all visitors to come and pay homage to one of Hampshire's best known literary icons. Winchester Cathedral is full of rich history and is worth the visit even if you are not a fan of Jane Austen with a passion for literature. The cost to enter Winchester cathedral is £13.50 for an adult, £12 for over 66, £7 for students, and under 16s can enter with a paying adult, however all these prices are slightly cheaper if you book online. However, these prices may be subject to change. Winchester Cathedral is a must see for tourists visiting Hampshire especially those who are fans of the late Jane Austen.
3. College street- Winchester
Just a short 6 minute walk from Winchester Cathedral you can find Jane Austen’s place of death at No.8 College street. This is the home where she spent the final weeks of her life living with her sister Cassandra after becoming fatally ill. If you pay her death place a visit you will see the plaque dedicated to her memory on the outside of the house. If you happen to be in Winchester or you’re planning on visiting the cathedral just around the corner, this is a simple, easy and free way to appreciate the life of one of Hampshire's most beloved female authors.
4. Steventon
The small village of steventon situated in North Hampshire with a population of around 250, is the birthplace of Jane Austen. Austen lived in the village from 1775-1801. You can visit the church where Austen worshipped throughout her childhood and where her father was a vicar. This quiet and quaint village is where Austen began her life and anyone passing through the area with an interest for her work would benefit greatly from exploring the environment Austen spent her early years.
Hampshire is full of rich history and Jane Austen's legacy is one of the most notable pieces of history that Hampshire has to offer.
Whether you are a fan of literature or not, the places on this list offer something for everyone whether it be in the historic city of Winchester or the beautiful and quiet Hampshire countryside, you are sure to find some in enrichment while exploring Jane Austen country.
