DESTINATION Basingstoke has launched a new leaflet for a six-mile walk around Steventon to explore Jane Austen country.

The gentle but scenic walk, which was put together by local Jane Austen expert Phil Howe, starts from Steventon Church and takes a loop around Ashe and Deane, with the leaflet explaining some of the places that influenced her writing.

Jane Austen was living in Steventon when she wrote one of her most infamous novels – Pride and Prejudice.

Felicity Edwards, managing director of Destination Basingstoke, said: “Jane Austen spent half of her life just outside Basingstoke, living in Steventon, we are keen to encourage people to appreciate the impact local people and landscapes had on her writing.

“We hope that the walk will help residents and visitors alike make the association between one of the world’s most famous authors and Basingstoke. The walk is the start of a series of initiatives to celebrate Jane Austen’s life in the area.”

The leaflet has been made possible through funding from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s Community Heritage and Environment Fund.

Phil Howe, of Hidden Britain Tours, added: “We hope that the leaflet will help walkers not only enjoy the beautiful countryside, but give an opportunity to reflect on the life and work of a woman that has influenced two centuries of literature, and who’s writing was so strongly influenced by the Hampshire countryside.”

The leaflet can be picked up from various locations around the borough including St Nicholas Church in Steventon, Oakley Hall Hotel and the Willis Museum.

Alternatively download a copy at: visitingdestination basingstoke.co.uk