Event: Jane Austen's 249th Birthday at God's House Tower

Monday 16th December 2024 10:00am - 5:00pm

God's House Tower, Town Quay Road, Southampton, SO14 2NY

Join us for a unique celebration of Jane Austen’s 249th birthday, featuring exclusive access to special exhibitions, private tours, and a chance to explore the life and legacy of one of the world’s most beloved authors. Celebrate in style, with a series of curated experiences that bring Austen’s works and personal history to life in a fresh, exciting way.

To start the day, join Jane Austen expert Dr. Cheryl Butler for an intimate version of the In Training For A Heroine: Jane Austen Walking Tour. You’ll learn more about Austen’s life and her connections to Southampton, gaining new insights into how the town inspired her writing.

Next, enjoy a delicious lunch at GHT, with sandwiches, cakes, scones with jam, and a selection of teas and coffees.

After luch, there will be an exclusive curator-led tour of the exhibition In Training For A Heroine and a chance to see Jane Austen’s travelling writing desk (on loan from the British Library) up close and personal.

The exhibition tour will continue in our Main Gallery space with Jocelyn McGregor, as she talks about her commission, No Notion of Loving by Halves – a site-specific, multi-media installation that takes a deep dive into Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey and the enduring legacy of the ‘Female Gothic’.

In addition, you’ll enjoy a private performance of No Notion of Loving by Halves, written and directed by Jocelyn, and have the chance to meet the artist and the actors involved in the production.

To finish the day, raise a glass to Jane Austen with a celebratory round of Prosecco (or Elderflower if you prefer).

Tickets are limited, please book early to avoid disappointment.