FOOD historian and Great British Bake Off regular Dr Annie Gray is giving a talk on the Georgian Christmas dinner at the home of Jane Austen.

The culinary expert will reveal how people of Jane Austen’s time celebrated the festive period to assess the Christmas menu.

Brawn, roast swan, plumb porridge and meaty mince pies was the feast of choice, the recipes of which feature in The Knight Family Cookbook - a handwritten cookbook that was collated in the 18th century by the Knight Family, who owned the Chawton House estate and adopted Jane Austen’s brother Edward in 1784.

The event runs from 10am-3pm on Saturday, December 13. Visitors can also explore the historic house and enjoy gourmet Georgian treats cooked in the Old Kitchen.

Keith Arscott, development director at Chawton House Library, said: “Whether you are a foodie or a lover of literary history or historic homes, visitors are promised a truly festive and unique experience.”

He added: “An event like this brings the historic house to life and helps to make the life and times of the early women writers we represent more relevant and accessible to people today.”

Tickets for the event cost £8 for adults and £4 for children, under fives go free, or a family ticket can be bought for £15 for two adults and up to three children. Visit Eventbrite at eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-georgian-christmas-at-chawton-house-library-tickets-13287038891 or call Chawton House Library on 01420 541010.