To mark the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, Bath Abbey is excited to announce Austens at the Abbey, a special programme of events that highlights the Abbey’s connections to the iconic author and her family.
Running from Saturday 5 April to Saturday 27 September 2025, this unmissable offer invites visitors to step into the world of Jane Austen like never before, with a mix of interactive experiences, thought-provoking talks, and Regency-inspired celebrations.
From family-friendly crafts to exclusive after-hours tours, Austens at the Abbey offers a unique chance to explore the fascinating ties between Bath Abbey and Austen’s circle. Austen herself lived in Bath for several years, and Bath Abbey’s connections to the people she and her family knew are beautifully brought to life through this programme.
Whether you're a Jane Austen enthusiast, a local history lover, or simply looking for a fun family outing, there’s something for everyone in this celebration of one of literature’s most beloved figures.
Image: Austens at the Abbey, credit Bath Abbey
‘Austens at the Abbey’ Events
Austens at the Abbey Exhibition
Saturday 5 April - Saturday 27 September
Immerse yourself in the fascinating connections the Austen family has to Bath Abbey through a brand-new exhibition. Through their memorials, discover the captivating stories of doctors, sailors, musicians, an actor and an international businesswoman who are all linked to Jane Austen and her family. The exhibition is included in Bath Abbey’s regular admission and offers a new and intriguing understanding of Austen’s world.
Austen Family Fun Days
Saturday 5 April, Saturday 2 August, Saturday 20 September | 10:00am – 4:00pm
Bring your family to Austens at the Abbey for a series of exciting, Regency-themed craft activities for ages 4+, special tours throughout the day and a chance to chat to fun Regency characters from the Natural Theatre Company (5 April and 20 September only).
- Saturday 5 April: Create your very own high-society Bicorn hats and Easter bonnets to celebrate the opening of the Austens at the Abbey exhibition.
- Saturday 2 August: Write a letter or dance card with an ink pen and learn a simple Regency dance while dressing in period costume.
- Saturday 20 September: Get hands-on with a craft activity to create your own Regency-inspired portrait or silhouette
All Family Fun Days are included in admission or free with a Discovery Card.
The Spirituality of Jane Austen Talk with Revd. Paula Hollingsworth
Thursday 10 April | 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Join Revd. Paula Hollingsworth, Chaplain at St. Paul’s Cathedral and author of The Spirituality of Jane Austen, for an enlightening evening exploring the spiritual themes in Austen’s novels. Discover how Austen’s faith and life experiences shaped her writing. This event includes a Q&A session and exclusive access to the Austens at the Abbey exhibition after hours.
For booking information, visit bathabbey.org/austen.
Regency Service
Sunday 14 September | 11:30am - 12:30pm
Experience a Sung Eucharist service with a Regency twist, celebrating Jane Austen and the era she immortalised. Regency attire is encouraged but not mandatory.
Film Screening of Pride and Prejudice at Bath Abbey
Saturday 13 September | 7:30pm - 10:15pm
Enjoy the special experience of seeing the film Pride and Prejudice, staring Keira Knightley, in the Abbey’s stunning surroundings. This immersive experience is a romantic evening you won’t forget. Regency attire is encouraged but not mandatory.
For booking information, visit bathabbey.org/austen.
Austens After-Hours Tours
Meet the residents of Jane Austen’s Bath on this exclusive after-hours tour of Bath Abbey.
For centuries, people have worshipped on this site, and at the height of Bath’s popularity in the 18th century many chose the Abbey as their final resting place. With its fan-vaulted Tudor ceiling, 52 windows flooding the space with light, magnificent brand-new sculptures and its central location, it’s easy to imagine why.
On this special after-hours tour, when the Abbey is closed to the public, costumed guides bring history to life as they introduce you to these 18th century residents of Bath. From an American millionaire to an innkeeper, doctor, actor, and musician, these fascinating stories are all linked to the Austen family. Enjoy a drink as you step back in time and experience the Abbey in a whole new way.
Tickets: Online at bathabbey.org/austen or from the Bath Abbey entrance.
Price: £20pp (includes a glass of Prosecco or elderflower fizz)
Date and time: Various Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from April – September 6.00pm-7.30pm (check the Bath Abbey website for details)
Please note: The tour includes periods of standing and walking through the Abbey, with limited seating available at certain points. Please get in touch if you have any questions about accessibility for these tours.
For a full list of events, schedules, and booking information, visit bathabbey.org/austen.
Don’t Miss Out – Celebrate Austen’s 250th Year at Bath Abbey!
This year, Bath Abbey invites you to celebrate the life and legacy of Jane Austen in the heart of Bath - her city of inspiration. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to Austen’s world, Austens at the Abbey offers an unforgettable experience.
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