For Jane Austen fans, England is like stepping into one of her novels—filled with charming villages, beautiful countryside, and estates that could’ve been pulled right from Pride and Prejudice. Whether it’s the places that inspired Austen’s stories or the homes where she wrote them, this guide has everything you need to learn more about the iconic writer. Ahead, find a quintessential Jane Austen Guide to England, complete with where to stay, what to see, and how to follow in her footsteps.
Start in London: Where Jane Austen Frequently Visited
Stay Here: Henry’s Townhouse
Start your London adventure at Henry’s Townhouse, a boutique hotel with a direct connection to Jane Austen herself. Once the home of her brother, Henry Austen, this place is full of history and charm. With six rooms, each named after a member of the Austen family, you’ll feel a part of history.
What to See
Check out Austen’s original manuscripts at the British Library, or pop into the Regency Café for an old-school vibe that feels like something out of her time. Don’t miss Westminster Abbey, where she’s honored at Poets’ Corner.
Go to Chawton: Where Jane Austen Wrote Her Masterpieces
Stay Here: The Anchor Inn
Head to Chawton, the village where Jane Austen wrote some of her most beloved novels, including Pride and Prejudice. You can step into Austen’s world at the Jane Austen’s House Museum, where she lived and wrote her masterpieces. Just 11 minutes from her childhood home, The Anchor Inn is a quaint stay. It has Tudor-style beams and antique furnishings, the rooms are a perfect countryside retreat. Each room is named after literary greats, and the property features a stacked bookshelf, making it the ideal place for curling up with a book, a cup of tea, and homemade biscuits.
What to See
When in Chawton, there’s a lot to see. Begin with a visit to the Jane Austen’s House Museum, where she lived from 1809 to 1817 and wrote some of her most iconic novels. You can explore the rooms, check out original manuscripts, and discover personal artifacts like handwritten letters and, most incredible of all, Austen’s tiny wooden writing table—where she brought Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy to life. Just a short walk away is Chawton House, once owned by Austen’s brother Edward, and now a hub for researching women writers.
Go to Bath: Where Some of Austen’s Books Are Based
Stay Here: The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa
Bath is not only one of the prettiest cities in England, but it also has a special connection to Austen. She lived here from 1801 to 1806, and you can definitely feel the city’s influence in Northanger Abbey and Persuasion, where the social scene is a big part of the story. To experience Bath in true Austen style, stay at The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa. It’s located in the famous Royal Crescent, so you’ll be staying in one of the city’s most iconic spots.
What to See
Start with the Jane Austen Centre to dive into her life here, then wander around the Royal Crescent and The Circus, iconic Georgian landmarks that appear in her novels. For a true taste of Bath’s social scene, check out the Assembly Rooms, where the city’s elite mingled in Austen’s day.
Go to Winchester: Where Jane Austen Is Buried
Stay Here: The Wykeham Arms
The Wykeham Arms is a cozy pub and hotel in the heart of Winchester with a warm, traditional vibe—think wooden beams, crackling fires, and a great selection of local ales. The food is all about classic British comfort, and the rooms are cozy, with a mix of old-school charm and modern touches.
What to See
Winchester is where Jane Austen spent her final days, and it’s a must-visit for any fan. In 1817, when she was seriously ill (to this day, no one knows what she died of), she moved to a house on College Street to be closer to medical care. You can’t go inside, but it’s still a special stop before heading to Winchester Cathedral, where she’s buried. Inside, you’ll find a simple yet touching gold plaque honoring her legacy.
Whether Austen’s books are long-time favorites or the charm of the English countryside is calling, a trip like this is a dream. From London’s stylish townhouses to Hampshire’s rolling fields and Bath’s stunning architecture, each stop offers a peek into Austen’s world—both in real life and on paper.
