2025 marks the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen's birth in Hampshire. In her relatively short life she travelled through fourteen English counties, including, between 1801 and 1804, Devon and Dorset. Her experience of both coastal shires appears in her first and last published novels, 'Sense and Sensibility' and 'Persuasion'.

This lecture by Hazel Jones, a Jane Austen specialist, will feature contemporary maps and other early-nineteenth century travellers' impressions to illustrate the places she visited and to reveal the locations she might have drawn on for the names of fictional houses and villages.

To guarantee a seat, contact the library at least 24 hours before the event. Otherwise, simply turn up on the day.

www.theppl.org.uk/events/talks-and-special-events