A city at the heart of Jane Austen’s own life and those of her fictional characters, Austen’s life works frequently feature Bath and its influence on her literature. This exhibition is a permanent fixture, integral to the culture of this beautiful city and offers an inspiring insight into Jane’s life and beloved books.
Explore the exhibition for an illuminating insight into Jane Austen’s life, all artefacts and historical information are housed in an original period building within the heart of magical Bath. This iconic city is a buzzing centre for arts and literary history, immerse yourself in the charm of tales past. The exhibition itself is created by enthused members of the Jane Austen Society and leading authorities on Jane herself, Louise Ross and Maggie Lane. Learn more about this much-loved novelist with contemporary exhibits and inspirational talks.
Fancy dressing to the occasion? As part of the Jane Austen Centre Exhibition experience, you’re cordially invited to don a period get-up and pose with your best Bennet face on. With an array of Regency dresses and accessories from bonnets to parasols, top hats and reticules – you might not even recognise your regal self! Friendly staff are on-hand to assist while you strike a pose and help to achieve that Insta-worthy candid shot. There’s no better way to transport your imagination back to Jane Austen’s period than delving into an iconic dressing-up box.
A die-hard fan? Discover the Jane Austen Festival; every autumn a gathering of Austen enthusiasts takes over the city, over the course of ten days with more than eighty Austen-inspired events. The most renowned being the Grand Regency Costumed Promenade, a traffic-stopping display of literary love for the city’s famed author. Not only a parade of period passion, it’s also a terrific source of entertainment for both participants and onlookers. Immerse yourself in the culture and spirit of 18th Century tradition. For more details on this historic festival, visit Jane Austen Festival.
Sip your Afternoon Tea in elegance at The Regency Tea Room, with fifteen varieties of loose-leaf-tea and selections of sumptuous sandwiches, sweet treats and savoury delights. For an extra special touch, why not indulge in one of the speciality options, ‘Tea with Mr Darcy’ or Lady’s Afternoon Tea’. With staff all donned in full regency dress, you’ll be whisked to a past world of regal style and simple pleasures.
Your trip would not be complete without a visit to the on-site gift shop, teeming with quaint keepsakes and vintage artefacts. A range of Austen inspired goodies await you, from intricate lace nightgowns of the period, to a book-worm’s dream collection of themed tote bags. Any bibliophile will gush over the new Austen luxury hardback covers, and even your own blush-worthy Mr Darcy pillowcase! How very Darcy…
However you choose to spend your time at The Jane Austen Centre, you certainly will leave spellbound - and wishing you were born in another era entirely.
Feeling inspired? Visit Jane Austen Centre for more information.
Feeling tempted? Take a peek at our luxury cottages near Bath here.
The Jane Austen Centre, 40 Gay Street, Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2NT | 01225 443 000 | contactus@janeausten.co.uk
*The Jane Austen Centre will be closed for renovation from Monday 13th - Friday 17th of January 2020*
All photographs copyright of The Jane Austen Centre Bath.
