August 14 2025: 12 Hours – The Story of Jane Austen’s Short Engagement - Open to All

‘Funny, pithy, lucid, witty and very moving. Very Jane.’ – Dame Emma Thompson

It’s December 1802. It is a big decision to say, 'Yes' to a marriage proposal. It is even a bigger decision to refuse the offer next morning. Especially if you are Jane Austen. This is the story of those twelve hours.

This 60-minute monologue play stars Charlotte Barnes and is written by local Jane Austen historian and tour guide, Phil Howe.

Resident guests of Heckfield Place can book to experience a private tour with Phil, exploring the picturesque villages that Jane Austen knew, see the country houses where she danced, fell in and out of love in a landscape remarkably unchanged since the 1770s.

The Programme

6:30 PM: Screening Room Bar Opens

7:00 PM: Play begins

8:00 PM: Play ends

If you need to book an accessible seat, please get in touch directly at [email protected] and we'd be delighted to assist.