Find some creative inspiration in Kent, one of the major visitor attractions in the South East is the house and inspiring home of Charles Darwin. Darwin, the British scientist who laid the foundation of the theory of evolution and transformed the way we think about the natural world. In his lifetime his findings, theories and book were thought to be extremely controversial as they took a scientific approach to how man evolved from apes, rather than the world being created by God in seven days. I personally find his daringness to think outside of the box and challenge such topics truly inspiring.

 See the world through his eyes and how he worked so closely with nature.  View the study where Darwin wrote ‘On the Origin of Species’, an exact replica as when he worked in it, take a wander through the grounds, extensive gardens and soak up some of the intellectual inspiration and history of his home.   Down house provides the opportunity to peek into the fascinating life of the Darwin family and view the rooms where the most interesting conversations and ideas were discussed.

There is also an interactive multimedia tour, narrated by Sir David Attenborough, explaining how Darwin developed his ideas.

Charles Darwin actually came from a wealthy, well connected and a somewhat revolutionary family. His maternal grandfather was Josiah Wedgwood a potter, yes as in Wedgewood china, who was credited with the industrialisation of the manufacture of pottery and founder of the Wedgewood Company.  He was also an abolitionist and well remembered for his “Am I not a man and a brother?” anti slavery medallion…good man!

Darwin’s paternal grandfather was Erasmus Darwin who was a physician who apparently turned down George III’s generous offer to be physician to the King!  He was one of the leading intellectuals of 18^th century England and was a natural philosopher, physiologist, slave trade abolitionist, inventor and poet.  His poems included much about natural history, his long poem The Botanic Garden (1789), addresses a range of scientific concerns, including the beginnings of his theory of evolution.

With such powerful influences it’s no wonder Charles went on to become a legend himself.  Visit Down House here to get your pass, prices and find out more information