no alt text

Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 03 May, 2023

This house museum and research centre celebrates the life and work of Charles Darwin, the renowned naturalist and evolutionary biologist. It was in this house and garden that Darwin worked on his theories of evolution by natural selection; he and his family moved there in the mid-19th century.

A range of exhibits explore Darwin’s ground-breaking theories of evolution and natural selection, and his life and legacy. Highlights include rare books, specimens, and personal items that belonged to Darwin and his family. Rooms have been preserved as he would have lived in them, including the beautifully displayed study where he wrote ‘On the origin of the species’ and the bedroom where he died in 1882.

The lovely gardens, which have also been preserved, including Darwin’s tree-lined ‘thinking path’, a quarter-mile circular path through meadows where he would ponder his new theories and ideas.

The museum also features a range of interactive exhibits, including a chance to see live animals and learn about the role of conservation in modern biology. A fitting legacy to one of the world’s greatest and most influential scientists.

Especially for under 12s

In the main bedroom, there’s a dressing-up closet where kids (and adults) can dress up in Victorian-style clothes to see how they would have looked in the 1850s.

There’s also a great free discovery trail sheet for kids that will guide them around the house and gardens with activities to complete along the way. Pick one up at the main desk on entry.

Price from: £20
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 8+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

The house is in the countryside, so you really need to drive to get there. There’s free parking on site. The nearest bus stop is half a mile away; the nearest station 3/4 mile away.

The site is operated y English Heritage (so members get free entry). Book online before you go for a discount; you can buy tickets at the door.

When to do it

The museum is open all year round, seven days a week. The quietest times are before 11am and after 2pm.

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Brighton

East Sussex, United Kingdom (UK)

Brighton Pier at sunset. Fairground rides and entrance to the pier visible above the reflective water.

An iconic seaside resort, Brighton oozes a unique mix of bohemian style and beachy chic, all wrapped up in an irrepressible sense of fun.

Canterbury

Kent, United Kingdom (UK)

Facade of Canterbury Cathedral illuminated at night

A character-filled, historic and lively town rich in British history dating back to Roman times. The spectacular cathedral is the home of the Church of England.

London

Greater London, United Kingdom (UK)

view of houses of parliament at night

World-class culture, fashion, music, food and history – and a mind-boggling array of bucket list experiences – packed into one extraordinary, incomparable destination.