Pride and Prejudice tourism expected to boom for 200th anniversary

Monday marks the 200th anniversary of the publication of “Pride and Prejudice,” the Jane Austen novel that introduced feisty heroine Elizabeth Bennet, seemingly aloof Mr. Darcy and a world of manor homes and grand estates that turned England into a dream destination for readers around the globe.

Balls, dances and other special events are taking place this year to celebrate the bicentennial as Austen continues to lure travelers.

“She’s hugely important,” said Meredith Pearson, a spokeswoman for VisitBritain. The country’s national tourism agency maintains a guide for fans eager to experience the “Pride and Prejudice” lifestyle.