#chawton

In British terms, it isn't exactly close to me, but in the grand scheme of things it's practically on my doorstep (this point was underscored by the fact I spent most of my visit chatting with some lovely ladies who had travelled all the way from Australia)!

So, when I found out quite last minute about the service and statue unveiling at Winchester Cathedral, and decided to take a spontaneous cross-country trip... I had to make sure that I finally paid a visit while I was in Hampshire.

It lived up to my expectations in every way. It was so special to be in such a place. There were too many highlights to mention, and picking a favourite is impossible... but there was one object and room in particular that left me in absolute awe.

In the downstairs dining parlour (with wallpaper accurate to Jane Austen's lifetime which was reproduced after scraps of it were discovered in a cupboard in 2018!) there was the twelve-sided table, at which she would've sat while writing the stories that we all know and love so dearly:

It was so special to spend a few moments looking at that seemingly inconsequential piece of furniture, where novels were composed that have brought joy to millions over the past two centuries.

There was a note too about how she struggled with her eyesight, which would've made writing in a room with little natural light particularly difficult (remember, there were only candles!) so she likely would've positioned the table in a similar place as it is today, by the window.

Jane Austen's writing table

Jane Austen’s House. Chawton, district of Hampshire, England.

“Jane Austen lived here from 1809 - 1817 and hence all her works were sent into the world. Her admirers in this country and in America have united to erect this tablet.

Today's Janeuary prompt has reminded me of the time I visited the village of Chawton in 2022, where Jane Austen lived between 1809 and 1817. A short walk from their house is St Nicholas' Church. Walking down the road to the church, making the same journey as Jane and her family, standing outside the church they worshipped at, felt very special.

Unfortunately, I was not there at a time when the church was open, however, just wandering around the churchyard was a spiritual and peaceful experience, and it was such a beautiful way to start my day.

Jane's mother and sister are buried in the churchyard of St Nicholas', and their graves are still there today. There is also a lovely and tasteful statue of Jane, as you approach the entry to the church. Below are some of my pictures from the day.