Hidden Vaults, Photography and Jane Austen's Legacy

Plus Hampshire events, deals and more.

Author

Hannah D
December 10, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 11 minutes

Hi there Hampshire,

Christmas is still in full swing across Hampshire, but what a weekend it’s been! With the storm sweeping through, I hope you managed to stay safe and cosy indoors—or at least avoided chasing down stray decorations in the wind.

Now that the skies have calmed, the festive events calendar is as busy as Santa’s workshop on Christmas Eve.

So, settle in with your favourite hot drink (or mulled wine, no judgment here), and let’s dive into all the goodness this week has to offer!

Southampton’s Secret Underground: I Had No Idea This Even Existed!

I used to live in Southampton, and I had no idea medieval vaults were beneath the city streets! Yesterday evening, I went on the Hidden Southampton Walking Tour, which completely blew me away. Who knew there was so much history tucked under our feet?

Vault in Southampton

Led by the incredibly charismatic Nigel from SEE Southampton, this two-hour tour was a journey through time. Nigel’s storytelling was brilliant—he has the keys to the city (literally!) and opened up the doors to secret medieval wine vaults, some hidden under modern flats and council houses.

I always knew Southampton had a rich history, but now I have a newfound appreciation for it. In places I once took for granted, I've discovered fascinating stories—from the Kings and Queens to the thriving wine and wool trade that made the city famous.

Southampton Walls

The tour wasn’t just fascinating; it was fun. Nigel’s passion for the city is infectious, and his knowledge is vast but never overwhelming. He shared everything from ancient legends to Henry II's massive impact on the city. By the end, I couldn’t believe how much I’d learned.

This experience sells out regularly with Experience Hampshire, and it’s easy to see why. If you’re a history buff or just curious about what lies beneath Southampton’s streets, I highly recommend booking yourself a spot. At just £16 per person, it’s a bargain for two hours of history, stories, and secret underground adventures.

Photo of the Week: Sunset in the New Forest

I absolutely love this stunning photograph by Michael Palmer. It beautifully captures a vibrant sunset over the New Forest's open heathland, with a winding road reflecting the golden evening light.

I’ve had the pleasure of attending a few of Michael’s photography experience days, including a taster session in the New Forest and a night photography workshop. They’re a brilliant way to learn new skills, explore incredible locations, and connect with fellow photography enthusiasts. If you’re inspired by his work, I highly recommend checking them out!

👉 Learn more and book your experience at photoexperiencedays.com.

What’s On This Week

Wednesday 11th December

Thursday 12th December

Saturday 14th December

Sunday 15th December

249 Years of Wit and Romance

This Monday marks exactly 249 years since that snowy December night in 1775 when she arrived in Steventon, giving the world one of its most beloved authors. With her 250th anniversary just around the corner in 2025, the celebrations are already shaping up to be spectacular! Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just curious about her world of regency romance and razor-sharp wit, there’s so much to look forward to—especially at Jane Austen’s House in Chawton.

The celebrations kick off in January with a Pride and Prejudice Festival (tickets are already on sale!) featuring themed tours, pop-up talks, and a Pride and Prejudice trail through the house. There’s even a performance blending Austen’s words with Carl Davis’s iconic music—pure magic! And if you can’t make it in person, virtual talks and tours mean fans across the globe can join in.

But that’s just the start. Throughout the year, there will be festivals dedicated to her other works, like Sense & Sensibility in May and Emma in July. Expect everything from candlelit tours and poetry readings to dress-up days and guided walks. December will wrap things up with a cosy Birthday Festival, complete with Georgian decorations, festive treats, and celebrations for Jane’s big 250th on the 16th.

If you’re planning a visit, don’t miss the brand-new permanent exhibition, Jane Austen and the Art of Writing. It’s packed with treasures like her writing table, first editions of her novels, and interactive displays that let you step into her creative world.

Oh, and here’s a treat: they’ve got a gorgeous book coming out, A Jane Austen Year. It’s full of insights into her life, letters, and the inspirations behind her novels. Pre-order it now, and you’ll get your copy two months before it hits the shops!

I’ll be sharing more about events across Hampshire celebrating Jane’s legacy in the coming months, so keep an eye out.

Hampshire Hot Picks

🎨 Discover the art of gin at the Bombay Sapphire Distillery Discovery Tour for just £28.80 with code “XMAS20”

⛴️ Save 25% on Isle of Wight ferry travel when you book with accommodation—perfect for your next island escape

🗺️ Get 30% off award-winning OS Maps with code “WALKERS30”—your ultimate outdoor companion

🪓 Save £10 on the Axe Throwing and Treetop Challenge Combo at Go Ape using code AXEBUNDLE10

✨ Win 2 adult tickets to the magical Winter Woodland Lights at Hawk Conservancy Trust—enter by Sunday, 15th December

🗺️ Embark on The Great UK Outdoor Treasure Hunt for Two in Southampton and save 31%, plus an extra 20% with code “XMAS20”

That’s it for this week! I hope something in this edition has caught your eye, whether it’s uncovering Southampton’s hidden history, soaking up some festive cheer, or planning a visit to Jane Austen’s world.

If you’ve been out and about in Hampshire, I’d love to hear what you’ve discovered—just hit reply and let me know. And if you think a friend or family member would enjoy this newsletter, feel free to share it with them.

Have a great week,
Hannah

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