By Jennifer Ciotta

The village of Steventon is where Jane Austen lived her first twenty-five years.  Popham Lane, now the Wheatsheaf Inn, serves as the spot where Austen used to collect the family mail.  Taking long strolls in the countryside is a strong suggestion for a visitor to Steventon.  This was a frequent habit of Austen, similar to her fictional character of Lizzie Bennet in Pride and Prejudice.  At the Barclays Bank in the Market Place, a plaque commemorates Austen, since she attended social gatherings here, once the former assembly rooms.  To become a real Austen-nite, a day of shopping is a must.  Nearby shopping towns include: Andover, Whitchurch and Overton.

Austen and her family worshipped at Steventon Church.  Her father and her brother James were both clergymen here.  The tiny mint-colored twelfth century church sits in the green of the countryside, where a bronze plague dedicated to Austen remains.  Graves of her family lie in the churchyard as well.  However, Jane died in Winchester, where she is buried.

In Chawton, Austen's literary home, one can visit the Jane Austen House and museum.  It was here the author penned Pride and Prejudice, on the very table that still stands in the house.  One can also view her needlework, letters and jewelry collection.  In the drawing room is Jane's father's bookcase, holding first editions of her novels.  Her donkey carriage, only used when she was sick and could not walk, was refurbished and comes out on special occasions.  The beautiful garden displays a large variety of flowers and herbs, while a bookstore with Austen novels is on the premises. 

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