6 Timeless Ways to Enjoy Jane Austen’s Reading All Year Round 

9th December 2025

The final chapters of Jane Austen 250 may have been written, but that doesn’t mean the story’s over. Reading has been celebrating the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth in true Regency style (with events, theatre and plenty of tea!), but you can still step into her world long after the festivities have ended. 

From quiet literary corners to elegant teas and walks worthy of Elizabeth Bennet herself, here are six timeless ways to keep the spirit of Jane Austen alive in Reading, all year round. 

© National Trust, Basildon Park

Explore Jane’s Reading 

Start your Austen adventure right where young Jane once studied, the historic Reading Abbey Gateway, and visit the very schoolroom she was once taught in. From there, make your way over to the elegant Basildon Park, a scenic masterpiece that played a prominent role in Pride and Prejudice (2005), whilst also sharing links with Austen's family! You’ll find plenty to delight your inner romantic with this blend of real Austen history and Hollywood magic. 

Read Like Jane 

There’s no better way to honour Jane than by diving back into her novels or discovering them for the first time. Head to Waterstones to browse the classics, or pop into Oxfam Books in Caversham for a second-hand gem. Then, find a cosy corner in one of Reading’s independent cafes and lose yourself in Pride and Prejudice. Cream tea optional (but encouraged). 

Walk Like a Heroine 

While Jane’s connection to Reading dates back to her childhood, the town still offers plenty of Regency charm. Take a self-guided heritage walk past the Abbey ruins, Forbury Gardens and the Georgian façades that would have been familiar to her contemporaries. Bring your imagination (and perhaps a parasol) and picture the carriages and chatter of a bygone era. 

Sip Like a Regency Lady 

Austen heroines knew the power of a good cup of tea, and Reading delivers it in spades. Try a delicate afternoon tea at The Roseate Reading, complete with a fantastic menu of teas and luxury finger sandwiches. The perfect conditions to inspire your own creative ideas. 

© Pamela Raith, Death Comes to Pemberley

See the Stage 

Jane’s wit and warmth truly come alive in performance. Keep an eye on Reading Rep Theatre and Progress Theatre for other classic adaptations and Regency-inspired productions. 

© Pamela Raith, Death Comes to Pemberley

Dress the Part 

You don’t need a ball invitation to channel a bit of Austen elegance. Start by browsing Reading’s independent boutiques and vintage shops for those unique, timeless finds, then wander into Adrienne Henry Millinery in the Harris Arcade for the perfect finishing touch to your Regency-inspired look. 

A Timeless Ending 

Jane Austen 250 may have come to a close, but Reading’s love affair with its most famous former pupil continues. Once you’ve re-read Emma for the fourth time, let Reading bring Austen’s elegance and wit to life in a whole new way — an unexpectedly rich stop for any Janeite.