Access to house: Disabled access via shop. All ground floor rooms are level with seats in every room. First-floor reached by lift and ramp to mount two steps.
Access to grounds: Most areas can be reached via gravel paths, including Darwin’s ‘thinking path’ and greenhouses. The gravel can be slippery when wet. The rest of the area is lawn which cannot be used by wheelchairs.
Parking: 50m from house with separate disabled bays. Disabled visitors may be set down outside the house by prior arrangement. Level path to house.
Visually Impaired Visitors: Interactive exhibition on first floor allowing visitors to touch and participate. Audio guides included in admission price. Braille guide available.
Hearing Impaired Visitors: Audio tour with hearing loop included in admission price.
Facilities Toilets: Accessible WC on ground floor.
Open
April-September: Wed-Sun 1000-1800
October: Wed-Sun 1000-1700
November-March: Wed-Sun 1000-1600
Description
An intimate window into the life of Englands best known scientist. It was from his study at Down House that Charles Darwin worked on the scientific theories that culminated in a book “On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection“ that both scandalised and revolutionised Victorian Britain.
Collections description
Down House, built during the late eighteenth century, remains much as it was when Darwin lived there. On the ground floor, the rooms have been furnished to reflect the domestic life of the family. The study holds his writing desk, chair and numerous objects connected with his work.
The first floor houses an interactive exhibition on his life, research and discoveries.
Disability Access
Audio guides specifically for blind and partially sighted people
Toilets for disabled
Touch exhibits and/or handling sessions
Wheelchair access to some public areas
