Discover the ‘Great House’ referred to in Jane Austen’s letters, now sensitively restored, relax in the peace and tranquillity of the gardens, and find inspiration in the lives and works of our women writers.
We foster research and understanding of early women writers, restoring them to their rightful place in the history of English literature and enabling them to speak directly to – and inspire – future generations.
We have a unique collection of women’s writing which is accessible to anyone who wishes to use it. Many of the works in the collection were entirely neglected throughout the twentieth century – research carried out here is helping to put these books and their authors back on the intellectual map.
The House and Gardens are open to visitors, and the historic setting brings to life the context within which our women writers lived and worked.
We run a lively and varied events programme, including evening talks, music recitals and international conferences.
We also run an award-winning schools programme in partnership with the Jane Austen’s House Museum making full use of this historic house and fascinating library of women’s literature.
Watch the trailer for ‘Jane Austen’s True Home: A Life in Hampshire’. Commissioned by East Hampshire District Council, the documentary explores the context surrounding Austen’s life whilst living in Chawton and Alton.
Books that are thought to exist only at Chawton House