Isle Of Wight Libraries Wrap Up Jane Austen 250 Celebrations With Regency Dance And Tea Party

A year of celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth has come to a close, with Isle of Wight libraries hosting two popular events that immersed visitors in Regency-era culture.

On Sunday 23 November, Lord Louis Library welcomed the Hampshire Regency Dancers — a Winchester-based group dedicated to preserving historic dances from Austen’s time.

The troupe delivered a lively demonstration and workshop, guiding around 30 attendees through classic routines such as Mr Beveridge’s Maggot and The Duke of Kent.

The session drew plenty of laughter, with many participants already hoping for the dancers’ return in 2026.

Ryde Library continued the festivities with a Regency-themed tea party. Guests enjoyed a talk from Helen Howe of the Jane Austen Society’s Hampshire branch, who explored Christmas traditions and party games from Austen’s era.

Visitors were then treated to period-inspired bakes including rout cakes, spiced biscuits and pound cake, while staff added to the fun with a Jane Austen quiz and bingo.

Louise Emery, development librarian, said:

“It’s been wonderful to see so many people come together to celebrate Jane Austen’s life and works.

These events captured the spirit of the Regency era and showed how libraries can bring history to life for our community.

"We’re very grateful to our Friends of the Library groups for helping make events like this possible.”

Further details about library services and upcoming events can be found on the Isle of Wight Council’s library webpages.

New visitors can also sign up for a library card online and follow Isle of Wight Libraries on social media for updates.