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2025 marks 250 years since Jane Austen was born and along the Great West Way, there are plenty events taking place to mark the occasion. Follow in the footsteps of Jane Austen (1775-1817) with a Great West Way journey, recognising one of the most famous, and quintessentially English novelists of all time.
We have also created a Great West Way Jane Austen suggested itinerary, linking all the well-known destinations and attractions that showcase or are connected to Jane Austen. This journey starts in Bath, but visitors can also begin in London if required.
Explore the route as you discover a range of well-known destinations, linked to Austen's life, as well as several Regency-themed experiences to inspire you along the way. Taking place across the Great West Way, there will be plenty of exciting things to do in celebration! From Georgian Afternoon Teas, to Jane Austen inspired museum trips and visits to iconic filming locations. Check out what's on to mark 250 years of Jane Austen this year!
Throughout her life, Jane Austen lived, travelled and visited various destinations along or within easy reach of the Great West Way. With connections in Bath, Hampshire and Reading, it is no surprise that Austen was inspired by these locations, bringing them to life through film and tv adaptations of her books!
credit Visit Hampshire
In Winchester, step inside No. 8 College Street, the house Jane Austen spent the last weeks of her life. Continue the journey of Jane’s final weeks at Winchester Cathedral, where visitors can see Jane Austen’s grave, a handwritten poem and, a statue of the author to be unveiled in the Cathedral Close in October. Several of Jane Austen’s personal possessions will be exhibited at City Museum, while visitors can explore the lives of Georgian working women in a specially curated exhibition at The Arc. The iconic Great Hall will also host some spectacular events including a Regency Ball, a Regency Fashion Show and a talk by presenter and author, Lucy Worsley.
Hampshire, Jane Austen’s home county, presents a host of special events, tours and exhibitions to celebrate her remarkable life and works. At Jane Austen’s House, where she lived and wrote her novels, visitors can take part in themed festivals and see two new exhibitions. A Regency-themed Country Fair will take place on site of the Steventon Rectory where she spent the first 25 years of her life. In Southampton, where the family lived from 1806 to 1809, an exhibition of rare paintings, letters, books and personal items linked to Jane will be on display to the public for the first time at SeaCity Museum, and a variety of performances, talks and guided tours will take place around the city. Alton will be conducting a week of celebrations, including a Summer Regency Ball and a full programme of Austen-themed events.
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Celebrate 250 years of Jane Austen when travelling with Great Western Railway by using the Great West Way Discoverer Pass. Follow in Austen’s footsteps and explore a range of iconic destinations linked to her life from Windsor to Reading to Bath. There are plenty of regency events and activities taking place across the Great West Way throughout 2025. If you don’t think you have time to make the most of the pass, book direct at GWR.com and save over 50% when you book in advance. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or discovery, there's always more to explore with Great Western Railway.
Between London and Bristol, the Great West Way is home to a variety of iconic places to stay. Continue on theme, with a luxurious getaway at one of the many idyllic hotels or enjoy the countryside with a cosy cottage retreat. Explore your next place to stay along the Great West Way this year.
Celebrate Jane Austen’s birthday with a magical duo destination stay near Bath and Winchester, two places that played a significant part in Austen's life. Mark the 250 years anniversary with two nights of pure charm and luxury at Exclusive Collection’s Lainston House, set in 63 acres of Hampshire countryside yet just 5 minutes from Winchester city and The Manor House, located in the iconic Cotswold village of Castle Combe, just 30 minutes from Bath city.
With tickets to both The Jane Austen Centre in Bath and Winchester Cathedral where Austen rests, and plenty of other Austen hot spots to visit nearby, this is the perfect bucket-list break for any Jane Austen fan. This two-night escape combines history, literary inspiration, and 5-star indulgence in a quintessentially English countryside setting. This exciting package includes:
© Great West Way 2025.
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