Pride & Prejudice Brought to Life
Pride & Prejudice Brought to Life
Today sees the release of the film adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel, Pride and Prejudice and with such strong links to the South East of England, movie lovers are in for a treat.
The South East is a haven for Jane Austen admirers but you don't have to be a follower of her work to enjoy the many sights and attractions on offer.
Born in Steventon, near Basingstoke in 1775, Jane Austen has retained her connections with the region ever since.
She attended Abbey Boarding School in Reading, lived in Chawton, near Alton, where her house is now a museum and spent the last weeks of her life in Winchester where she is buried at the Cathedral. Why not take some time and explore Jane Austen's past in South East England.
Many attractions have links to Jane Austen and all are well worth a visit. Netley Abbey, near Southampton, inspired Jane Austen in some of her work. Goodnestone Park, Kent, was a place frequently visited by Jane Austen and Claydon House in Buckinghamshire was one of the prime locations for the film adaptation of Emma.
The South East is featured in the film Pride & Prejudice with two stately homes playing key roles in the film.
Basildon Park, a magnificent 18th Century Palladian Mansion, overlooking the River Thames in Berkshire was filmed as 'Netherfield Park' temporary home of Mr Bingley. The house and gardens are part of the National Trust featuring a fine collection of paintings and furniture.
Groombridge Place, a tranquil moated house, set within acres of gardens, is situated near Tunbridge Wells on the border of Kent and East Sussex, and was the film location of 'Longbourn' the Bennet Family Home.
Come along to South East England and experience all that is on offer to celebrate the life and times of Jane Austen. Explore where she found her inspiration with a short break to the historical and beautiful Hampshire. For more information, go to www.visitwinchester.co.uk/janeausten.shtml
For more information on the region and its links to Jane Austen, go to www.visitsoutheastengland.com or phone 023 8062 5505.
- ends -
For further press information and photography please contact Laura Eden, Tourism South East, Tel: 023 8062 5474 or email leden@tourismse.com.
Notes to editor -
1) Tourism South East is the strategic tourism body for Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Kent, Oxfordshire, Surrey and West Sussex.
2) The UK release of Pride & Prejudice is on Friday 16th September.
3) Any journalists interested in attending a familiarisation trip please contact Laura Eden as above.