July 18th, 2017 marks the 200th anniversary of the death of beloved British author, Jane Austen. In celebration of the renowned author, we have put together five the UK’s finest stately homes connected to the great author’s work.
Whether you’re a literary buff or just love old-school splendour and the charming English countryside, you can enjoy some of Englands most magnificent stately homes connected to Austen. So, step back in time and take a leaf out of Jane Austen’s book…
Chatsworth House
This striking Derbyshire stately home starred as Mr. Darcy’s residence, Pemberley, in the 2005 film adaptation of Pride & Prejudice. It’s believed that Jane Austen actually based her idea of Pemberley House on Chatsworth as she penned the novel in the nearby town of Bakewell. Chatsworth is the home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, and offers over 30 rooms to explore, an astonishing art collection and a beautiful 105-acre landscaped garden.
Where to stay: Innisfree Cottage 
Situated just a 15-minute drive from Chatsworth House, Innisfree Cottage is a charming B&B based in the historic village of Eyam, on the edge of the Peak District National Park. This homely cottage B&B is a great base for exploring the area’s many attractions. If you’re taking a trip here it’s good to note that Eyam is endorsed for walking, the countryside, history and scenery by Booking.com travellers.
The Eyam village itself is charming an beautiful although it has a tragic history. It was the location of an outbreak of bubonic plague which occurred there in 1665, in which the villagers chose to isolate themselves rather than let the infection spread. To minimise cross infection, food and other supplies were left outside the village, at either the Boundary Stones, or at Mompesson’s Well, high above the village. The Earl of Devonshire, who lived at Chatsworth House, freely donated food and medical supplies.
Montacute House
This beautiful Tudor house was used in the Oscar winning adaptation of Sense and Sensibility, starring Emma Thompson and Alan Rickman. Completed in 1601, this magnificent house is a great example of Elizabethan architecture and design. Located just outside Yeovil in Somerset, it combines grand architecture with inspiring art collections, all surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Where to stay: Bagnell Cottage
This cosy cottage is located amongst the beautiful English country side and just a 9-minute drive from Montacute House. With luscious green grounds, comfy rooms and a traditional big brekkie cooked with locally sourced ingredients every morning, this is a true old-school English experience that will add to your time exploring these stately homes.
Belton House
Belton House is a restoration building in Kent, completed in the 1680s. It starred as Rosings, Lady Catherine de Bourgh’s exemplary residence in the BBC’s 1995 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. Today the house attracts a wealth of visitors thanks to its expansive deer park, grand display rooms and collections of art, porcelain and silver.
Where to stay: Allington Manor
For a classic countryside retreat, grade II restored Allington Manor is a fantastic choice. This sleek B&B, located less than a 15-minute drive from Belton House, offers elegant accommodation with period features and luxurious touches, including free-standing roll top baths and a beauty lounge with a range of spa and holistic treatments available.
Step back in time and into the pages of some of Austen’s most celebrated work.
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