St. Nicholas Church

living of reverend samuel cooke

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This was the living of Reverend Samuel Cooke, who was Jane Austen's godfather. He served here from 1769 to 1820. He was married to Mrs Cassandra Cooke (nee Leigh), who was Mrs Austen's cousin.

The Austen family stayed with the Cookes often when they broke their journey on the way to London or Godmersham, and it is documented that Jane and Cassandra came for extended stays here in 1799 and  1814.

They lived in a large rectory adjacent to the church, but it is no longer there. 

You can learn more about this church in an article written by Brenda S. Cox for Jane Austen's World. You can read it here. 

great bookham town

the inspiration for highbury in jane austen's emma

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Jane Austen was very inspired by her visits to Great Bookham. Her unfinished work, The Watsons, was set in the nearby area, and it is widely suggested by historians that this town, and nearby Leatherhead, was the basis for Highbury in her novel, Emma.

You can find some historic images of the town and more information about Jane Austen's connection there, on the Exploring Surrey's Past website here.

box hill

Site of the famous picnic in Emma

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This is the scene of the famous picnic in Emma, which was inspired by Jane Austen's visit here.

There are various trails you can take to walk or drive up and see the stunning views below.

Jane Austen is also reputed to have stayed in The Burford Bridge Hotel at the foot of the hill, as did many other famous literary figures.

You can read more on the hotel website here.

extract

If you would like to read an extract from The Austens of Chawton, where the events take place in Great Bookham, click here.