Jane’s sister Cassandra was her dearest friend and companion throughout her life. Pretty and practical, she is often pictured as the more solemn of the two sisters, although Jane at least thought she was extremely funny. She was also a talented artist, and her portrait of Jane is a treasure of the National Portrait Gallery. In 2023, we are celebrating 250 years since Cassandra’s birth with a year-long programme of events.

For this special event, join us for a unique guided tour of Jane Austen’s House. In each room, discover objects, paintings and stories that reveal more about Jane’s beloved sister and her life here in Chawton.

Together, we’ll discover the rooms where Jane and Cassandra lived, and learn more about Cassandra’s life story. From her happy childhood in Steventon to the tragic death of her fiancé, followed by a life dedicated to family and friends, art, reading and charity work, we’ll get to know Cassandra through objects, portraits, stories and letters.

After Jane’s early death, Cassandra continued living in Chawton Cottage until her own death in 1845. Find out more about this time – the ways in which she fostered her sister’s legacy and preserved her memory, overseeing her will, the publication of her works, and the distribution and final destruction of her letters.

After the tour we’ll serve tea and biscuits in the Learning Centre, giving everyone the chance to continue the discussion about Jane and Cassandra and their lives here in Chawton.

Details:

Date: Monday 1 May

Time: 9.45am – 10.45am

Location: Jane Austen’s House in Chawton. Find us

Tickets: £16.50

The tour will begin at 9.45am promptly. Please make sure you arrive in good time to join the group.

☕After the tour we’ll serve tea and biscuits in the Learning Centre. Please let us know of any dietary requirements after booking. 

🎨 This event is part of our ‘Year of Cassandra’, celebrating the life of Cassandra Austen, 1773 – 1845.