Jane Austen’s Childhood Home is Up For Sale

Whether you know every novel by heart or you just like to dream about Mr Darcy, you won’t want to miss this: Jane Austen’s birthplace is now on the market. This truly is a house with remarkable history. 

Jane Austen’s Childhood Home is Up For Sale 

‘There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort,’ Jane Austen wrote in her 1815 novel Emma. But exactly what kind of comfort – and what kind of home? The majestic Steventon House holds the answers: it is here that Austen was born and where she spent her childhood.

Austen lived in Steventon House from 1775 until 1801. In 1826, her brother Edward demolished the original property and replaced it with the handsome Georgian manor you can see (and buy!) today. It has welcomed other prestigious residents including the Duke of Wellington, who acquired it from Edward in 1855.

Although the original Steventon House no longer stands, Austen left a marvelous legacy behind her, and it envelops the estate. Austen penned some of her most renowned works here, including Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility and Northanger Abbey.

Sound exciting? This historic residence could be yours for the rather lofty price of £8.5 million. Tucked away in a tranquil village in Basingstoke, the Grade-II listed property has been refurbished to maximise the elegance of its period features while creating a luxurious family home. You’ll spot stone fireplaces, carved wood and intricate cornicing throughout, with high ceilings and sash windows sustaining a feeling of grandeur. 

The bespoke kitchen is particularly striking, and it offers views of the rolling hills. Below is a cellar complete with temperature-controlled wine storage. Upstairs, there are six double bedrooms alongside three delightful attic rooms. 

If you’re in need of more space, you’ll find Clover Cottage at the end of the driveway. This enchanting annexe encompasses a lounge, dining room, kitchen and bathroom, plus two bedrooms and a utility room. The Coach House at the rear of the property provides further amenities and accommodates two cars.

While every room in this home is utterly gorgeous, the gardens just might be the star of the show. Cherry trees, wisteria and a rose garden will transport you to a world more magical than a Bridgerton set – but if you’re after contemporary living, you can take a dip in the heated outdoor swimming pool or head to the neighbouring tennis court. 

With boundless elegance, reams of space and rural beauty to boot, it’s easy to see how Austen conceived some of her most renowned novels during her time at Steventon House. Wander through the grounds of this estate and you’ll be retracing the steps of one of Britain’s most beloved authors.

Available through Knight Frank and Savills.