/ Hampshire Trip Activities / Step into Jane Austen’s World
Chawton House, an atmospheric Elizabethan manor nestled in the Hampshire countryside, offers youngsters a captivating journey through English history and literature. Known to Jane Austen as the Great House, the estate belonged to her brother and served as a significant inspiration for her life and work. Pupils can immerse themselves in the same picturesque gardens and grand rooms that Austen once frequented, providing a tangible link to the past that brings their studies to life in a memorable and engaging way.
The venue is uniquely placed to support curriculum-based learning across multiple subjects, including history, gardens, and the heritage industries. Students can explore quirky historic features, from superstitious anti-witch marks on the fireplaces to hidden Regency graffiti, sparking their curiosity about the daily lives and beliefs of those who lived here centuries ago. This atmospheric setting encourages youngsters to engage deeply with tangible history and find inspiration in the works of early women writers held within the house’s unique library collections.
Whether embarking on a guided house history tour or participating in a bespoke workshop, youngsters are looked after by a dedicated team of experienced guides and curators. The estate’s parkland and gardens provide a stimulating outdoor classroom where pupils can learn about the transformation of English landscape styles or traditional organic farming methods. A visit to Chawton House ensures a perfect balance of curriculum-linked discovery and exhilarating fun, making it a premier choice for any school group on a residential stay.
Here's some of the most frequently-asked questions about school visits to Chawton House, posed by teachers and other group leaders
The house features accessible toilets on-site for student use.
Picnic facilities are available on the South Lawn, providing a scenic spot for youngsters to enjoy their lunch during a visit. Please take all rubbish away.
