Open Archives - The Age of Austen
Look behind the scenes and hear about some of the recent research discoveries from what life was like at Wentworth Castle Gardens during Austen’s lifetime.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Open Archives is back this July – come and meet our dedicated team of volunteers as they dig into the archives at Wentworth Castle Gardens.
2025 marks the 250th year of the birth of the renowned novelist, Jane Austen (1775-1817) and to mark the occasion, our July Open Archives is focusing on what Wentworth Castle Gardens was like during Austen’s lifetime (1775-1817) and during the Regency era (1795-1837).
Come and talk to our research and archives team to find out what life was like for those living and working at Wentworth Castle Gardens in the late-18th and early 19th-centuries, during a period of significant national change that included the Napoleonic Wars, political upheaval and shifting social norms.
Discover the behind-the-scenes research at Wentworth Castle Gardens, including stories of gossip and scandal, tales of travel and an insight into how people from the time dealt with infections such as smallpox.
Pop in to discover something new about the fascinating history of the site and share your stories with us. If you have a specific area of interest, please email us in advance at wentworthcastlegardens@nationaltrust.org.uk so the volunteers can be looking into your query.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Meeting point
Find the volunteers in the Reading Room in the Long Barn above the Café.
- Accessibility
The Reading Room can be reached from stairs which go from just near the Café counter, or via lift. To use the lift, please speak to a member of the team who can assist you.
Contact info
Business Services and Booking Enquiries
Upcoming events
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Picnic month
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