Birthplace of Jane Austen
As the birthplace of Jane Austen, Basingstoke marked the 200 anniversary of her death with celebrations, events and specially commissioned artworks throughout the borough in 2017.
Born in 1775, the celebrated author lived the first 25 years of her life in Steventon, in the Hampshire countryside, and was known to often frequent the nearest town of Basingstoke for dances.
The Basingstoke Jane Austen Statue
Local artist Adam Roud was commissioned to create the first statue of Jane Austen to be cast in Bronze.
The Statue was unveiled by the Countess of Portsmouth on the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen's death and is situated outside the Willis Museum in Market Place at the Top of the Town.
"Nothing could be better than a statue of Jane Austen hurrying across the Market Square to collect library books, do a little shopping or pick up her mother from Dr Lyford's house - living the busy family life into which she fitted the writing that has made her world famous" Claire Tomalin 2017.
Celebrating 250 years of Jane Austen
To celebrate the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, a group of organisations will host a diverse programme of events, exhibitions and activities for residents and visitors to enjoy in the borough where Jane spent her formative years.
Find more information and a full calendar of events on the LoveBasingstoke website