Downe, Kent, England
Down House, Darwin’s Residence from 1842 to 1882.
Only 16 miles south of London, Darwin’s house is now maintained by English Heritage. It was reopened to the public in 1998 following extensive renovation. Entrance to Down House is normally by advanced purchase ticket only. Call English Heritage Booking Office at least a day in advance to reserve visiting time.
Front of Down House, Downe, Kent, England
Garden side of Down House
Down House may be reached by rail and bus very conveniently from London's Victoria Station. Purchase a one-day return rail ticket to Bromley South. Trains are frequent. At Bromley South, exit the station directly to the street side bus stop. Catch #146 to Downe (except for Sundays). From the stop in Downe, walk about 5 minutes up Luxted Road to the right. One can always reach Downe by cab from Bromley. By auto, the A21 to Bromley and Orpington will lead to signs to Down House at Farnsborough, and on the A233 near Biggin Hill.
There is an air of magic about this place. To stand in the study where Darwin’s monumental works were composed is a thrilling experience. The grounds also offer a treat to the eye and soul, including Sand Walk, the pathway through the field and woods where much of Darwin’s cognitive effort took shape. The upstairs museum provides considerable information about Darwin’s life and work. Be prepared to spend most of a day in and about Down House.
Gardens at Down House
Sand Walk, site of much of Darwin’s contemplation
Sundial
dedicated to Darwin, Downe.
Church of St. Mary the Virgin,
at main intersection of Downe.
(Photo courtesy of Rae Cousins)
Interior photography is prohibited at Down House. Go to my LINKS page to view additional photos.
Plaque on building in Gower Street, at University College. Darwin lived here from 1838 - 1842.
(Photo courtesy of Rae Cousins)
Westminster Abbey.
Darwin’s stone.
Darwin died in 1882 at Down House, Kent. He was interred in Westminster Abbey, nearby the remains of Newton. Darwin’s stone is set into the floor of the Abbey. If the flow of traffic encountered in 1998 is still enforced, Darwin’s stone can be reached only toward the end of the clockwise circle, shortly before one returns to the roundabout’s starting point. Certainly one is advised to tour the Abbey, preserving Darwin and Newton for the last.
Darwin’s Stone, Westminster Abbey, London
During summer of 1998, photography in the Abbey was forbidden outside the hour of 6 – 7 PM Wednesdays. A large number of people showed up for this hour, so one is advised to arrive early and to be prepared for considerable interference while photographing.
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