MVARA has been out and about yet again, this time to see Jane Austen’s Cottage at Chawton. The weather was at its best, very warm and sunny, which enhanced the beautiful parks and gardens in Chawton. The cottage was small but packed with detail and much to read. It was fascinating to see the chair and small table on which she wrote her novels. There were many examples of her handwritten papers, covered from edge to edge in her small, tidy handwriting.
Some of the group also walked the short distance from her cottage to Chawton House where her brother lived, and which she often visited. The whole area of the village and house is set in spectacular parkland and pasture, with many mature trees and pretty cottages.
A jolly lunch was enjoyed afterwards in the local pub gardens where there was much discussion about Jane and her works. Another enjoyable day trip.
Transport was again provided by The Meon Valley Bus, which provides public transport services to all residents and visitors within the Meon Valley. Scheduled service runs on Mondays to Fareham, on Wednesdays to Petersfield and on Fridays to Winchester, picking passengers up at convenient points within the Meon Valley. Passengers are able to spend about 2 hours at the destination town before the return journey.
The minibus, which has space for 16 passengers is also available for private hire and MVARA takes advantage of this provision.
The Meon Valley Bus is fully owned and operated by the Meon Valley Community Bus Association (MVCBA) and is run by a dedicated team of volunteers delivering a friendly, supportive, and welcoming experience to all passengers.
