If you’re a fan of anything Austen, then you will likely want to hit up the permanent museum dedicated to the great English writer, arguably Bath’s most famous resident. The Jane Austen Centre can be found nestled in the heart of the city and allows you to discover more about Jane’s working life and opinions surrounding Bath during Regency times, primarily between 1801 and 1806.
Attracting thousands of visitors from around the globe every year, the genuine Georgian townhouse is decorated in classical fashion, where you will be greeted by a friendly and knowledgeable member of staff, before wandering free to explore the exhibition at your own pace. From the fashion to food and high society of the time, explore everything that inspired Austen’s timeless novels, such as Northanger Abbey and Persuasion.
The exhibition was created with the guidance of leading authorities on Jane Austen and local members of the Jane Austen Society and aims to inform the public on exciting and illuminating elements of the author’s life. All visits are enhanced by ‘character’ guides in Regency costume, who help to share the story of a fascinating history, with additional talks, activities and contemporary exhibits.
In order to really get a feel for the period, why not join-in the fun and get dressed-up in Regency costume, giving you a chance to feel a part of Pride and Prejudice. From bonnets and shawls, to top-hats and dresses, enjoy an inclusive opportunity for fun photos with friends and family. For the first time you can also view a new and exclusive look at Jane Austen herself, with a specially commissioned lifelike waxwork from sculptor Mark Richards and forensic artist Melissa Dring, based on eyewitness descriptions and family sketches.
Having concluded your tour of the exhibition space, head upstairs to The Regency Tea Rooms for a delicious afternoon tea. If you are unable to spend the day at length, it is worth noting that the Tea Rooms are open daily to the public without a museum ticket, serving for cream teas, light lunches, hot drinks and bubbly. There is also the Jane Austen Centre Gift Shop, which serves a unique array of gifts, trinkets and souvenirs from quality stationary to handmade jewellery not always found elsewhere, with many products unique to the centre.
Looking for a place to stay? Make the most of your stay in the historical city, with luxury self-catering available from Tucking Mill. Relax in historic properties, brought lovingly to life with contemporary design. To discover more, or book you stay, simply click here to view the website.
