Jane Austen 250: Walking Winchester on the Anniversary of Her Death

Join us for a delightful stroll through the charming streets of Winchester on the anniversary of Jane Austen's death on 18 July 1817.

You will be taken on a journey through the history and hidden gems of this beautiful town. Sprinkled with readings from Jane Austen's novels as well as passages from her letters and prayers you can discover more about Winchester and the time that Jane spent here.

"The valley here contracted into a glen, allowed room only for the stream, and a narrow walk amidst the rough coppice-wood which bordered it. Elizabeth longed to explore its windings. - Pride and Prejudice

Tour highlights:

• Visit Winchester College where Jane's nephews went to school
• Stroll through Dr Gabell's garden that Jane enjoyed from her window
• See inside 8 College Street (usually closed to the public) and see where Jane spent the last weeks of her life
• Pass the bookshop where Mr Austen bought the notebooks that Jane used for her writing
• Find out who taught Jane to play the piano and the quirky house he lived in
• Walk the Close to see where Jane stayed when visiting the Bigg sisters from Manydown
• Winchester Cathedral and Jane Austen's grave where she is laid to rest.

All presented with notes and quotes from Jane Austen's novels and letters.

**Your ticket includes the £15 / $20 house entry fee into 8 College Street (tickets now sold out).

We will meet at Guildhall Tourist Information at the bottom of the High Street, so lace up your walking shoes and get ready to explore!

Your tour guide is Emma Darlington a previous volunteer at Chawton House who has studied Jane Austen for many years. She has published five books including Jane Austen's Prayers, the first time they appeared in print.

This walk will take 2.5 to 3 hours and is mainly on the flat so is classed as easy. If you have questions or need help with mobility please let us know beforehand so we can accommodate you.