Rare Jane Austen find at Winchester Cathedral

A poem written by Jane Austen in her own hand is now on display at Winchester Cathedral.

Shaun the Sheep invites visitors to Peterborough, St Edmundsbury celebrates an historic milestone, music for the longest day at Lincoln, a poem written in Jane Austen’s own hand on display in Winchester, and a summer chorale finale at Ripon – just some of the events visitors can discover at our cathedrals this summer.

#WishYouWereHere – Summer in our Cathedrals – what will you discover?

All our cathedrals have exciting programmes for everyone throughout this summer – from headline exhibitions to family days and arts and crafts – and all are underpinned by the daily rhythm of prayer and worship.

Some of our cathedrals charge entry and there may be a fee at others for specific events, but all our cathedrals are free to enter for prayer, worship or to light a candle.

Do check on the cathedral’s individual website for up-to-date information before you travel.

And don’t forget to share your pictures and tag us #WishYouWereHere – our summer campaign this year.

Winchester Cathedral displays a rare find – Jane Austen handwritten poem.

A poem written by Jane Austen in her own hand is now on display at Winchester Cathedral, offering visitors a rare opportunity to view an original manuscript by one of England’s most beloved authors. 

The poem, composed in memory of Austen’s close friend and mentor Anne Lefroy, is the centrepiece of a new exhibition, Angelic Women: The Friendship of Jane Austen and Anne Lefroy, running from 23rd May to 19th October 2025 in the cathedral’s Kings & Scribes exhibition space. 

Jane Austen’s presence is still very much felt at Winchester Cathedral, where she spent her final days and now rests. 

This exhibition offers a rare and intimate glimpse into her personal life and the deep friendships that shaped her writing. We’re delighted to share this precious manuscript with visitors and to honour the legacy of one of England’s greatest literary voices.

Canon Dr Roland Riem, Acting Dean of Winchester said,

‘Jane Austen’s presence is still very much felt at Winchester Cathedral where she spent her final days and now rests.

‘This exhibition offers a rare and intimate glimpse into her personal life and the deep friendships that shaped her writing. We’re delighted to share this precious manuscript with visitors and to honour the legacy of one of England’s greatest literary voices.’

Jane Austen Poetry Exhibition. 23rd May – 19th October 2025