Jane Austen’s chair and writing table

Jane Austen’s House Museum in Chawton, Hampshire is being expanded after winning a £500,000 grant form English Heritage. New additions include a brand new learning centre at the end of the garden and the opening up of Austen’s old kitchen.

Work is also being undertaken to return Austen’s drawing room to its original use, a new shop will be opened in the Granary, and an audiovisual presentation on Jane’s life will be installed.

The expansion will be completed ahead of July celebrations marking the 200th anniversary of the novelist’s arrival at the house, at which time an exhibition exploring the film and television adaptations of Jane Austen novels will also open.

As well as the structual changes, the bicentenary will see an increase in the museum’s range of events, and activities with a number of musical performances taking place in and around the house during the second half of this year.

Jane Austen’s House Museum offers reduced entry prices for groups of 15 and more when booked in advance.

For further information telephone 01420 83262