“One cannot have too large a party. A large party secures its own amusement.”

With 2025 marking 250 years since the birth of iconic English novelist Jane Austen, Strictly Jane Austen Tours, known for its inspiring Regency era-inspired adventures, is commemorating the occasion with two six-day celebrations in the heart of Bath, the city Austen called home.

Modernity in Jane Austen’s novels made her a pioneer in English literature. Austen, who advocated for women’s education and freedom at a time when the term ‘feminist’ may not have existed, made her characters very unique and relatable.

Austen advocated for women’s education and freedom at a time when the term ‘feminist’ may not have existed

Although she could only complete six novels during her lifetime, her books are read by people all over the world and have been made into countless TV, film, theatre and radio adaptations.

In a press statement, Strictly Jane Austen Tours says that with regards to commemorating her 250th birth anniversary, the travel company is organising an Austen-inspired party and celebrations held over six days in spring and autumn 2025.

It says that ‘Celebrating Jane Austen 2025’ programmes will run from April 7 to 12 and the October 13 to 18, 2025, and are available to book at GBP 2200 (USD 2900).

It says that literature enthusiasts from around the world can take a deep dive into Jane Austen’s world in the luxurious surroundings of the Gainsborough Bath Spa hotel.

The programmes also feature guided tours to some of Bath’s most popular attractions

The firm says that visitors can expect insightful talks from a variety of Jane Austen experts who will reveal fascinating stories of Austen’s life and writing.

It adds that the talks will cover a range of topics from ‘Beauty and Cosmetics in the Time of Jane Austen’ by author Sarah Jane Dowling to ‘Gaming and Gambling and the Games Austen’s Characters Play’ with Leigh Wetherall Dickson, Associate Professor at Northumbria University. Bestselling British writer Gill Hornby will also speak about her celebrated novel Godmersham Park, while a number of other academics, historians and authors will provide their insights into Austen’s genius.

The programmes also feature guided tours to some of Bath’s most popular attractions, including the No.1 Royal Crescent Museum which celebrates the history of Bath in the 18th century, says the statement.

It adds that other highlights include a visit to the village of Lacock, whose picturesque streets were seen in the BBC’s 1995 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, as well as many other many popular films and TV shows.

The travel firm says that visitors will also be treated to day trips to destinations at the heart of English literature, such as Jane Austen’s House in Hampshire, a cottage turned inspiring museum which marks the birthplace of her beloved novels, and Chawton House.

Once the home of Jane Austen’s brother, Chawton is referred to as the ‘Great House’ in her novels and is now home to a unique collection of women’s writing.

The firm says that the talks and excursions will be enhanced by an array of convivial experiences which capture the celebratory spirit of the Georgian era.

Theresa McDermott

There will be a Regency dance workshop complete with traditional piped music, an embroidery class for those looking to embrace their creativity, an extravagant celebratory dinner hosted by the Gainsborough Bath Spa and an indulgent Jane Austen themed Afternoon Tea where visitors can toast the 250th anniversary with a glass of fizz in the quintessential setting of the hotel’s Canvas Room.

And for those looking for a fully immersive experience, Strictly Jane Austen Tours says it can arrange for visitors to enjoy all these experiences in full Regency costume which will be delivered to the hotel at the start of the programme. Visitors who have their own costumes, are encouraged to bring them.

“These experiences are designed to delight, educate and inspire. We invite Jane Austen fans old and new to come and learn something unexpected, enjoy the playfulness of hiring a beautiful Regency costume and take time to enjoy the beautiful city of Bath where the Georgian streetscapes are real not film sets!” says Theresa McDermott, Chief Executive of Strictly Jane Austen Tours and its sister company ECT Travel.