Launch of Jane Austen literary walk

9th November 2009

Categories: Kent news

Kent Libraries & Archives is proud and delighted to have collaborated with

• The Jane Austen Society (Kent branch)
• Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council
• St Peter & St Paul’s Church, Tonbridge
• Explore Kent

 Image © Explore Kent

To create a walking tour celebrating Jane Austen’s life, work and family connections with Tonbridge. This is an exciting venture for Kent Libraries & Archives and it forms part of the Kent approach to literacy and reading that we are developing as a lasting legacy following the success of our work in 2008 for the National Year of Reading.  The National Year of Reading was a powerful catalyst in raising awareness of the importance of reading for pleasure as well as for health and wellbeing.  The work we have been doing with partners to reach new audiences has delivered significant benefits. It has been particularly rewarding to work with TMBC, the Jane Austen Society and the Parish Church on this, the first in our programme of literary walks – and we are delighted it is taking place in Tonbridge.

As well as helping to promote interest in Jane Austen’s work the project is also intended to stimulate interest in discovering aspects of Kent’s rich culture and history by highlighting this major author’s family links with the town.

Of course the walk also includes a ‘healthy living’ element because it  enables people to take exercise in Tonbridge’s lovely park while learning about one of Britain’s most talented and well loved writers.

To find out more about Jane Austen and A Circular Walk download the Guide booklet and Audio guide.

For more information about Kent