New Jane Austen Centre displays promise to answer one of Bath’s big mysteries...

The Jane Austen Centre has had some fantastic updates to its displays. Loved by visitors and residents alike (the Centre’s very own Mr Bennet is a staple figure in the Bath community and most photographed man in England!), the Centre explores Jane Austen’s feelings towards Bath, a place she spent much time in and her home from 1801-1806.

Image: The Jane Austen Centre

The exhibition has more authentic Regency costumes for visitors to try on than ever before, including brand new outfits for even the littlest members of the family. Have you ever wondered what you would look like in a Regency bonnet? Now is your chance to find out as you pose for photos with Mr Darcy against the magnificent backdrop of Pemberley.

A must see for any Austen fans in Bath, is the new Sense and Sensibility (1995) display, featuring never-before-seen behind-the-scenes photos donated by screenwriter and star of the film, Emma Thompson. Emma donated these to The Jane Austen Centre following her recent trip to Bath where staff were delighted to give her a tour and show how the Centre helps to keep Austen’s legacy alive in the beautiful Georgian city. Emma has supported the Centre since its opening, and also donated a signed copy of her script and diaries from filming which is on display alongside her letters to the Centre.

At the heart of The Jane Austen Centre is it’s “amazing” actors, who bring Austen’s characters to life. Along with the diverse Exhibition, you’re left “feeling immersed in her life and novels”. It is as if Mr Wickham, Elinor Dashwood, and Emma Woodhouse have leapt from the page to show you how to write with a quill and ink, and challenge you to traditional Regency games. Whether you are a longstanding Austen fan, have never read a single page of her novels, or recently discovered a love of period dramas through Bridgerton, The Jane Austen Centre offers a delightful experience for all.

You will trace Austen’s footsteps and answer the question for yourself – what was it about Bath that stuck with Jane throughout her life? What led her to feature the City so heavily in her two final published novels, Northanger Abbey and Persuasion? Visit The Jane Austen Centre and discover the history of the most influential female novelist the world has ever seen. Although Jane Austen left Bath, Bath never left her.