Festival & Events

Bath is a thriving, vibrant city with a year round calender of festivals, theatrical, musical and sporting events. For Jane Austen fans enjoy the festival dedicated to her in September or attend a show at the theatre, something that Jane herself loved to do.

The Jane Austen Festival (13 - 21 September 2013)

The thirteenth Jane Austen Festival will begin with the annual colourful costumed parade through the city centre. The week long programme includes talks and productions, readings and tours, and draws Jane Austen fans from around the world.

John Mullan: What Matters in Jane Austen? (3 March 2013)

The great literary critic John Mullan looks at the intriguing quirks and intricacies of her fiction, explores the rituals and conventions of her fictional world, and reveals her sheer daring as a novelist.

The Real Jane Austen with Paula Byrne (8 March 2013)

Bestselling author Paula Byrne (Perdita, Mad World) explores the focus that shaped the interior life of one of Britain’s most beloved novelists.

50 Fabulous Frocks (2 February – 31 December 2013)

The Fashion Museum in Bath celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2013 with a special display that will showcase 50 of its most glamorous dresses with the wow factor.

Theatrical Highlights

The theatre that Jane Austen loved to attend opened in Orchard Street in 1750. In 1768 it was distinguished by being the first theatre outside London to be protected by a royal patent. This theatre drew superstars of the time like Sarah Siddons and today the Theatre Royal in Sawclose, dating from 1805, attracts pre-West End shows and top name performers.

» For a full listing of events and to find out what's on in Bath and beyond during your visit see our main listings on visitbath.co.uk - the official tourism website.

» For advice and suggestions call Bath Tourist Information Centre;
UK Callers - 0906 711 2000 (50p / min)
Overseas callers - +44 844 847 5257