/ Hampshire Trip Activities / Inspiration in Every Room
Jane Austen’s House offers youngsters an unforgettable journey into the life and times of one of the world’s most celebrated authors. Located in the picturesque village of Chawton, this historic home is where Austen wrote or revised all her famous novels. For students on a residential stay, stepping into these authentic rooms provides a tangible connection to history that simply cannot be replicated in a classroom. Pupils can stand exactly where Jane stood, seeing her original writing desk and personal letters, sparking a renewed passion for Literature & Creative Writing.
The house serves as a living museum of the Georgians era, allowing pupils to explore the daily domestic routines of the early nineteenth century. From the historic kitchen with its open hearth to the beautifully restored 17th-century gardens, youngsters can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the Regency period. This immersive environment is perfect for investigating Local History and understanding the social structures of the time, including complex global connections such as the Atlantic Slave Trade and the abolition movement.
A visit here is designed to be both educational and engaging, with hands-on opportunities that bring the past to life. Whether pupils are examining the delicate details of period clothing or marveling at Jane’s own donkey carriage in a study of Transport, they are encouraged to think critically about how life has changed. The tranquil setting and intimate atmosphere of the house and gardens ensure that students leave with a deep sense of inspiration and a lasting memory of their time in the Hampshire countryside.
Here's some of the most frequently-asked questions about school visits to Jane Austen's House, posed by teachers and other group leaders
In the event of an alarm, groups must follow the directions of museum stewards to the nearest fire exit. The primary assembly point is located in the open courtyard area, safely away from the historic timber-framed building.
The house is small and intimate; therefore, large groups are typically split into smaller clusters to move through the rooms sequentially. Photography is generally permitted for school projects, but flash must be turned off to protect delicate textiles and manuscripts.
