Charles Darwin lived at Down House in the village of Downe for 40 years.

Here the father of evolutionary biology produced his theories On the Origin of the Species by Means of Natural Selection in 1859, which has had an enormous effect on scientific thought.

The secluded house, set in 18 acres, was a place Darwin could work undisturbed, surrounded by his wife Emma - a member of the famous Wedgwood family - and his 10 children, plus a menagerie of cats, dogs, squirrels, horses and pigeons.

The house, built in the late 18th century, remains much as it was when Darwin lived here. The rooms on the ground floor have been furnished to reflect the domestic life of the family, while the study holds his writing desk, chair and numerous objects connected with his work. The first floor offers an interactive exhibition on his life, his research and his discoveries.

Opening details: Feb 3 to Dec 18, Wed-Sun; adults £6.30, children £3.20; English Heritage members go free

Tel: 01689 859119

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