History

Included among its many famous visitors is renowned scientist Charles Darwin, who stayed at Plas Caerdeon in 1869 to work on a revision of his famous publication 'The Origin of Species'.

Investment planned for early 2009, coinciding with the bicentennial of Darwin's birth, will see development of the former stable block, providing further accommodation, including facilities for users with disabilities and en-suite rooms in the main house.

To J. D. Hooker, 22 June [1869]Caerdeon, Barmouth, N. Wales

June 22nd.

My dear Hooker

... We have been here for 10 days: how I wish it was possible for you to pay us a visit here: we have a beautiful House, with a terraced garden, & a really magnificent view of Cader, right opposite. Old Cader is a grand fellow & shows himself off superbly with every changing light. We remain here till end of July, when the H. Wedgwoods have the house.---- I have been as yet in a very poor way: it seems as soon as the stimulus of mental work stops, my whole strength gives way: as yet I have hardly crawled half a mile from the House, & then been fearfully fatigued.---- It is enough to make one wish oneself quiet in a comfortable tomb. ... Give our very kind remembrances to Mrs. Hooker, & I am very glad to hear that she enjoyed your tour, which seems to have been in every way a most successful affair----

Yours most affect.

C. Darwin

(This excerpt relating to Caerdon is published in Francis Darwin, ed. The life and letters of Charles Darwin, vol. III, p. 108. with thanks to the Darwin Correspondence Project University Library, West Road Cambridge.)