To celebrate the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, Strictly Jane Austen Tours, a division of Bath-based travel specialists ECT Travel, is delighted to announce that it will be hosting a series of exclusive events and experiences to honour this iconic writer in partnership with 5* The Gainsborough Bath Spa,

The celebratory programmes will take place between the 7th - 12th April and the 13th - 18th October 2025, organised by Bath’s most Austen-tatious travel company, Strictly Jane Austen Tours, known for its inspiring Regency adventures and close ties with local experts.

Pray, explore the delightful experiences that await, curated by Dr Gabrielle Malcolm for Strictly Jane Austen Tours

“As an Austen expert and enthusiast, I was thrilled to be invited to curate the programme for 2025. Austen is a subtle, witty, and brilliant writer and I wanted to show visitors the full range of her work and impact. As well as speakers to celebrate her literary greatness we have invited social historians to give an insight into the life and times of Bath when Austen was in residence. From gambling to bathing, from cosmetics to embroidery – the rich variety of Austen’s world can be experienced. Come for the satire, stay late for the dancing.” Dr Gabrielle Malcolm

A sumptuous haven for discerning travellers - the 5* Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel

Combining classic architecture and historical elegance, The Gainsborough Bath Spa is the perfect setting for this celebration of Jane Austen. Nestled in the heart of the city, just moments away from some of the most significant sites in Jane Austen’s life and times, it offers luxury accommodation, historical charm and an exceptional on-site thermae spa.

It’s such a happiness when good people get together…. meet our Jane Austen experts

John Mullan, Lord Northcliffe Professor of Modern English Literature at University College London on Jane Austen’s Fiction.

Professor Jennie Batchelor, Head of English and Related Literature at the University of York on Reintroducing Jane Austen via The Lady’s Magazine.

Dr Leigh Wetherall Dickson, Associate Professor at Northumbria University on Gaming, Gambling and the Games Austen’s Characters Play.

Best-selling author Gill Hornby, on her celebrated novel Godmersham Park. Another of Gill’s hugely popular novels, Miss Austen will be appearing on our screens in the spring in a major BBC adaptation.

Author Sarah Jane Downing on Beauty and Cosmetics in the Time of Jane Austen

Architectural historian, Dr Moira Rudolf on Georgian Bath as Jane knew it

Author Zoe Wheddon on Jane Austen, Daddy’s Girl: The Life and Influence of The Revd George Austen.

Oh, who can ever be tired of Bath? The visits & jaunts enjoyed

Private visit to No1 Royal Crescent Museum

A guided walk of Bath with a Jane Austen expert

A day visit with an expert guide to the Jane Austen House Museum, Whitchurch Silk Mill and Chawton House

A visit to the charming village of Lacock with an expert guide

 

One cannot have too large a party…the jovial & illuminating experiences

A Regency dance workshop with a caller, piped music and helpers

An embroidery workshop with expert needlewoman and historian, Alison Larkin

A walk in the countryside outside Bath just as Jane herself enjoyed

A celebratory Jane Austen dinner on the final day

A welcome reception and a sumptuous Afternoon High Tea with a glass of fizz in the quintessential setting of the Gainsborough’s Canvas Room.

 

You really must get some flounces….the attire for the celebrations

For those looking for a fully immersive experience, Strictly Jane Austen Tours can arrange for guests to enjoy all these experiences in full Regency costume which will be delivered to the hotel at the start of the programme. Guests that have their own, are encouraged to bring them.

 

Andrew Jordan, Executive Vice President of YTL Hotels UK comments: “We are honoured to be partnering with ECT Travel to host these prestigious events at The Gainsborough Bath Spa. 2025 will be a special moment for Bath as we celebrate the remarkable works of Jane Austen, and our luxury hotel could not be better positioned for showcasing the wonders of our local history. We are passionate about providing unparalleled experiences and look forward to welcoming guests from both near and afar to join us in celebrating this momentous occasion.”

 

Theresa McDermott, Chief Executive of Strictly Jane Austen Tours and ECT Travel also commented: “I am delighted to partner with the Gainsborough Bath Spa on this celebration of Jane Austen’s 250th anniversary -  located within the historic Spa Quarter of Bath, referenced in so many journals from Jane Austen’s time in the city, and with the sacred site of the Cross Bath and spring close by, it is the perfect setting for our enticing anniversary events. Curated by our expert team and led by Creative Director, Dr Gabrielle Malcolm, our rich programme of talks, visits, workshops and activities will 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! 

 

The Celebrating Jane Austen 2025 programmes will run from 7th - 12th April and the 13th - 18th October 2025 and are available to book now. Prices from £2200 p/p. To book, visit https://strictlyjaneausten.com/celebrating-jane-austen-2025/