Erasmus Darwin House

Erasmus Darwin House is a historic house and previous home of Dr Erasmus Darwin – scientist, doctor, inventor, poet, botanist and Grandfather of Evolution (as well as Charles Darwin!).

Among Darwin’s many talents was his extraordinary scientific insight in physics, chemistry, geology, meteorology and all aspects of biology. His theories of biological evolution by means of natural selection, although criticised by the church, were handed down from father to son and to grandson; but it was left to his grandson, Charles, to prove biological evolution. Towards the end of his life he gained recognition as the leading English poet of his day.

Darwin was the youngest of four sons who became one of the foremost physicians of his time; indeed King George III asked him to be his personal physician but Erasmus declined, preferring to stay where he had settled in Lichfield, Staffordshire. He is responsible for the enlargement of the original house and its noble Palladian frontage on Beacon Street. With his ability to make friends Erasmus soon built up a vast network of associates, men and women like himself who independently became known as the leading social and philosophical lights of their time. With contacts like Matthew Boulton, Josiah Wedgwood, and James Watt he set up the Lunar Society which became the main intellectual powerhouse of the Industrial Revolution in England.

The museum charges a small admission which goes towards the upkeep of the House and garden. However, to provide additional access we have a policy of free entry during all school holidays, including Christmas, summer and all half terms. See the Your Visit page for information on opening times and admission charges. We rely heavily on donations and Gift Aid is appreciated.

Groups can visit the museum at any time, including evenings and weekend, by appointment. The pre booked admission rate is £2 pp. Refreshments and tours can be provided. Please call the office to arrange discuss your requirements.

The museum is fully accessible to wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. We have a lift to all floors and there is blue badge parking in The Close opposite the Cathedral bookshop. Access without steps is via the back, from the Close through the Herb Garden. If you require assistance accessing the museum please call the office or ask at reception.

Education

Here at Erasmus Darwin House we have plenty to keep kids of all ages entertained, and are committed to providing learning opportunities in a fun and informal environment. We have signed up to the Kids in Museums manifesto which means we pledge to support putting the 20 points into practice.

It is a special experience to learn in the eighteenth century home of Erasmus Darwin, a creative thinker and a man of many interests, who – along with his Lunar Society friends – was at the forefront of learning in the eighteenth century.

We have an exciting education programme at Erasmus Darwin House, covering a variety of curriculum areas and Key Stages.  We aim to make learning relevant, stimulating and enjoyable.

Your students can learn outside the classroom through participating in our school activities programme, led by Erasmus Darwin House facilitators.

You can bring your pupils on a self-guided tour, supported, if you wish, by resources from our artefact handling boxes.

We are continually developing our education programme and we also have a programme of one-off activities, which are publicised on our website and available via email.

All activities link in with the National Curriculum.