Jane Austen's House

Jane Austen's House, Winchester Road, Chawton, Alton, Hampshire GU34 1SD, UK
1-99 Years
Paid

Description

Jane Austen’s House is a historic writer's house museum located in the quiet village of Chawton, Hampshire. It is widely recognized as one of the best things to do with kids in Chawton because it is the very place where Jane Austen wrote and revised all six of her famous novels. This cozy red-brick cottage offers a rare glimpse into 19th-century family life, making it a brilliant educational day out for budding writers and history fans.

Pre-booked prices for 2026 offer excellent value for families, as these tickets typically act as annual passes. Adult tickets are £14.50, and Child tickets (ages 6-16) are £7.00, while children under 6 enter for free. There are also reduced rates for Young People (17-26) at £10.50 and Seniors at £14.00.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines literature and history, this museum is a top choice. The house is filled with interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and a beautiful garden where children can play and imagine life in the Regency era. It provides a peaceful yet engaging atmosphere that brings English heritage to life.

Features

  • Paid
  • Host birthday parties: No

Features

What makes Jane Austen's House unique? Unlike many stately homes, this is a "lived-in" cottage that feels personal and intimate. It is the most authentic Austen site in the world.

  • The Writing Desk: You can stand inches away from the tiny walnut tripod table where Jane wrote Pride and Prejudice.
  • Regency Immersion: The museum encourages kids to get involved with sensory play through period costumes and traditional lawn games.
  • Creative Inspiration: It serves as a massive inspiration for young readers, showing them that world-famous stories were written in a simple family kitchen.

Top Highlights for Families

  • The Regency Dressing-Up Box: Located in the learning space, this is a huge hit with children. They can try on bonnets, top hats, and high-waisted dresses to see how the Austen family looked when they went for walks in the village.
  • The Historic Kitchen: The kitchen features an open hearth and old-fashioned cooking utensils. It’s a great spot for an educational day out, as kids can compare how the Austens made dinner with how we use modern microwaves today.
  • Jane's Garden: The large, beautiful garden is perfect for a run-around. Families can play traditional games like Battledore and Shuttlecock or sit on the benches to write their own stories in the fresh air.

Facilities

  • Parking: There is a free public car park directly opposite the museum (near the Chawton village sign).
  • Food: There is no cafe inside the house, but there are picnic tables in the garden. Chawton village has excellent cafes just steps away.
  • Toilets: Modern toilets and baby changing facilities are available on-site near the entrance.
  • Buggy Policy: Because the cottage is historic and small, buggies cannot be taken inside. There is a covered buggy parking area in the garden.
  • Lockers: Small lockers are provided for bags, as large backpacks are not allowed in the historic rooms.

What to see

Beyond the Main Attraction

  • Chawton House: A short walk away, this "Great House" belonged to Jane's brother and features vast parklands and a "Wilderness" walk.
  • Cassandra's Cup: A very popular tea room located directly across from the museum for a traditional cream tea.
  • The Watercress Line: A steam railway in Alton that makes a great addition to a day trip in the area.

Price

Price: Paid

Price Details

  • Adult: £14.50
  • Child (6-16): £7.00
  • Child (Under 6): FREE
  • Senior (Over 65s): £14.00
  • Young Person (17-26): £10.50
  • Disabled Person (Carer free): £10.50
  • Art Fund / JA Society Members: £7.00

Pricing URL: https://buy.myonlinebooking.co.uk/janeaustenshouse/sessions.aspx?tid=243

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

  • 13th April – 24th May: Open Wednesday to Sunday, closed Monday and Tuesday. Also open on Monday 4th May for the Spring Bank Holiday.
  • 25th May – 4th October: Open 7 days a week.
  • Exceptions: Mondays 8th June, 13th July, 10th August and 14th September, when we will be closed for conservation and care of collections.
  • 5th October – 25th October: Open Wednesday to Sunday, closed Monday and Tuesday.
  • 26th October – 1st November: Open 7 days for Half Term.

Time may vary please check here: https://janeaustens.house/visit/visitor-info/#openingtimes

Address: Jane Austen's House, Winchester Road, Chawton, Alton, Hampshire GU34 1SD, UK

Post Code: GU34 1SD

Council: East Hampshire

County: Hampshire

  • By Car: Chawton is located just off the A31 and A32 junction.
  • By Train: Take the train to Alton Station. From there, you can take a taxi (10 mins) or use the X64 or 64 bus which stops nearby.
  • Parking: There is a free public car park directly opposite the museum (near the Chawton village sign).

5.00

0 Reviews

Rating breakdown

5
80% Complete (danger)
0
4
80% Complete (danger)
0
3
80% Complete (danger)
0
2
80% Complete (danger)
0
1
80% Complete (danger)
0

Get the best blog stories into your inbox!