Release your inner Lizzy Bennet at some of Britain's finest stately homes

Release your inner Lizzy Bennet at some of Britain’s finest Stately Homes

2017 marks the 200^th anniversary of the passing of beloved British author Jane Austen. What better way to mark the occasion than to have a family weekend away to visit some of the UK’s finest stately homes, which have a direct connection to the great author’s works?

Whether you’re a literary buff or just love the grandeur, Booking.com – the global leader in connecting travellers with awesome accommodation – has selected some of the most magnificent stately homes connected to Austen to tick off your must-see list. Its accommodation experts have delved into its million properties and chosen some fantastic accommodation nearby, so step back in time and make a weekend of it!

Chatsworth House

This striking Derbyshire stately home starred as Mr. Darcy’s residence Pemberley in the 2005 film adaptation of Pride & Prejudice. It’s believed that Jane Austen actually based her idea of Pemberley House on Chatsworth as she penned the novel in the nearby town of Bakewell. Chatsworth is the home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, and offers over 30 rooms to explore, including grand staterooms and lavish bedrooms, an astonishing art collection and a beautiful 105 acre landscaped garden.

Where to stay: Innisfree Cottage

http://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/innisfree-cottage.en-gb.html

Situated just a 15-minute drive from Chatsworth House, the Innisfree Cottage is a charming B&B based in the historic village of Eyam, on the edge of the Peak District National Park. Serving a full English breakfast each morning as well as continental options, this homely cottage B&B is a great base for exploring the area’s many attractions.

Montacute House

This beautiful Tudor house was used in the Oscar winning adaptation of Sense and Sensibility, starring Emma Thompson and Alan Rickman. Completed in 1601, this magnificent house is a great example of Elizabethan architecture and design. Located just outside Yeovil in Somerset, it combines grand architecture with inspiring art collections, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

 Where to stay: The Keep, Yeovil

http://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/the-keep.en-gb.html

This elegant guest house is in the town centre of Yeovil, close to an array of restaurants, and just a ten-minute drive from Montacute House. Providing spacious rooms and freshly cooked breakfasts using local produce, this comfortable guesthouse is an inviting place to relax after an exciting day exploring Montacute House’s impressive history.

Belton House

Belton House is a beautiful Restoration building completed in the 1680s. It starred as Rosings, Lady Catherine de Bourgh’s exemplary residence in the BBC’s 1995 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. Today the house attracts a wealth of visitors thanks to its expansive deer park, grand display rooms and collections of art, porcelain and silver.

Where to stay: Allington Manor

http://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/allington-manor.en-gb.html

For a luxurious countryside retreat, Grade II restored Allington Manor is a fantastic choice. This sleek B&B, located less than a 15-minute drive from Belton House, offers elegant accommodation with period features and luxurious touches, including free-standing roll top baths and a beauty lounge with a range of beauty and holistic treatments available.

Basildon Park

This grand Georgian mansion served as Mr Bingley’s house Netherfield in the 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, and was also used as an interiors location for Downton Abbey. In addition to its period drama credentials, the house is home to an impressive art collection including Old Masters, and beautifully restored 18^th century rooms and kitchens.

Where to stay: The Royal Oak, Yattendon

http://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/the-royal-oak-yattendon.en-gb.html

This cosy hotel is less than five miles from Basildon Park. Offering charming rooms with every comfort, the hotel also includes an on-site restaurant with garden dining in the summer months.

Claydon House

Claydon House was used as a filming location in the 1996 film of Emma, starring Gwyneth Paltrow as the spirited would-be match-maker. This beautiful 18^th century building offers a wealth of history to explore, including close connections with Florence Nightingale. It is set amidst scenic Buckinghamshire countryside, with expansive parkland and landscaped gardens.

Where to stay: Just So Cottage

http://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/just-so-cottage.en-gb.html

Located in the nearby pretty market town of Winslow, Just So Cottage is a characterful listed historic building, over 400 years old. All the rooms offer luxurious details like original oak floors and quality period furniture. The breakfast menu serves organic ingredients sourced locally, making this charming cottage the perfect retreat after a day of exploration.