Rare Jane Austen Books, Once Owned by Royals, Go On Display at Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is exhibiting a collection of rare Jane Austen books, including a copy of Pride and Prejudice believed to have been read aloud by Prince Albert to Queen Victoria, for the first time ever.

The display, open from today through November 2nd, features the Pride and Prejudice edition, which Queen Victoria described as “very amusing,” “admirably written,” and “interesting and entertaining” in her journals after Albert began reading it to her in July 1853 while she recovered from measles. Also on view is a specially bound copy of Emma dedicated to King George IV, then the Prince Regent, following a tour of Carlton House by Austen’s librarian in 1815. A well-read first edition of Pride and Prejudice, potentially from the Servants’ Library at Windsor, is also included.

The exhibition isn’t limited to novels; it also showcases Regency-era fashion books, Costume of England and Costume of the Ladies of Paris, offering a glimpse into the era that inspired Austen’s work. These items are drawn from the Royal Library at Windsor Castle, a collection of over 240,000 items reflecting the reading habits of British monarchs throughout history – learn more about the Royal Collection Trust. The growing interest in Austen’s works is fueled by the approaching 250th anniversary of her birth this December, a milestone sparking events and auctions worldwide, such as a recent Sotheby’s auction of Austen letters.

Located in the Queen’s Drawing Room, the display is included with standard admission to Windsor Castle, but visitors are advised to check the schedule as the books will only be on view during specific hours. Officials stated the exhibition aims to provide a unique insight into the literary tastes of the royal family and the enduring legacy of Jane Austen’s novels.