Chawton is of course famous for the fact that this is where Jane Austen did almost all of her mature writing.

Writing would have occupied a good deal of her time, but family life too had its pulls. The Austens were generally a close and loving family and there were frequent visits from brothers and young nieces and nephews.

To these Jane and Cassandra were much loved aunts. Jane, in particular, would get involved with their games, making up stories and playing songs for them on the piano. She was herself an accomplished pianist and is said to have practised for two hours every morning before breakfast.

A daily routine would include, as well family meals, long walks and chatting and sewing in the evening. The rooms of the House and Museum, along with its garden, and with its prominent position at the heart of Chawton Village, all help to provide a tangible connection to the environment where the Austen family lived.