The accolade comes as the South prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Austen’s birth.

The New York Times‘ list of 52 places to visit features destinations from around the world, but this year, Austen’s England takes the top spot.

This is only the second time an English destination has been number one, with London taking the title in 2023.

READ MORE: Winchester prepares for year-long celebration for Jane Austen in 2025

Visitors to Hampshire, Steventon, Southampton, Winchester and Bath can immerse themselves in the legacy of the author, with regency-costumed promenades, dance balls and themed festivals.

AnneLise Sorensen from The New York Times said: “Jane Austen fans have a good reason to explore the southwest of England this year: it’s the 250th anniversary of her birth, and celebrations abound.

“Hampshire was both Austen’s birthplace and a source of inspiration; as a novelist, she was most prolific in this bucolic setting.”

Other British locations on the list include Flow Country in Scotland, coming in 20th, and East London at 35th.

The list aims to highlight destinations for all types of travellers, from breathtaking nature spots to cultural hotbeds.

The annual list was compiled by The New York Times experts for 2025 travel.