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Online Talk: At Home with Elizabeth Gaskell

’of all the weary, killing wearing out bustles in this life that of the last week passed all belief’. Elizabeth Gaskell to her friend Eliza Fox, 1852

As part of the 10 year anniversary celebrations of the opening of Elizabeth Gaskell’s House, we’re celebrating the home life of this incredible writer.

Elizabeth Gaskell was a modern woman in many ways. She managed a hugely successful writing career, was a hands-on mother to four girls and supported her husband’s work. But what was life really like at home in 84 Plymouth Grove?

Take a look behind closed doors at the family and personal life of one of our greatest novelists. How did she mix writing classic works with being a conscientious mother, managing servants, acting as hostess to numerous high profile guests, charity work and a busy social life, all in an age before easily-available paid childcare?

Chair of the Gaskell Society, Dr Diane Duffy takes a peak inside Elizabeth Gaskell’s world for this special anniversary talk.

Tickets £6

Thursday 18 September 2025, 7-8pm

What else do I need to know?

**Refer to your e-ticket for zoom joining instructions and links. Please check your spam/junk mail for ticket. This talk will also be recorded and all ticketholders will receive a link to the recording via TicketSource after the event.**

You can also support the House by buying from our online shop via this link.

If you have any questions about this event, please see our Frequently Asked Questions.

Elizabeth Gaskell’s House is run by Manchester Historic Buildings Trust (charity no. 1080606) and all money gained through private tours, talks, room hire and ticket sales goes towards the ongoing maintenance and running costs of the House. If you would like to support the House with an additional donation you can do so via this link.

Gift £10 to Celebrate 10 years.

Keeping Elizabeth Gaskell’s House open to the public remains a real financial challenge. Our incredible team needs your help and support to continue the story long into the future. During our anniversary year we are asking our supporters to give £10 to support the House and to help us raise £10,000. You can make a donation via JustGiving.