The Langdon Down Museum of Learning Disability at Normansfield in Teddington, was the home and institution developed by the Victorian physician Dr John Langdon Down and his family where a revolutionary and enlightened approach was developed for the care of people with learning disabilities.
The museum includes displays about the work of Dr John Langdon Down and the history of Normansfield from 1868 to 1997.
Also on display are objects from the Royal Earlswood Asylum and artifacts made by James Henry Pullen (1835–1916), a savant known as the Genius of Earlswood Asylum. This includes his ships, a model of Brunel’s Great Eastern, paintings and other objects.
The building contains a Grade II* listed Victorian theatre. This rare example of a private theatre contains original painted scenery and other ornate fixtures and fittings.
The Langdon Down Museum of Learning Disability is owned and managed by the Down’s Syndrome Association.
The museum contributes to the social history of learning disability.
The archive acquires artifacts, documents, photographs and other materials of historical importance.
Website and social media:
Museum website and blog: www.langdondownmuseum.org.uk
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LangdonDown
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LangdonDownMuseum
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/down's-syndrome-association
Visitors information
Opening Hours:
The museum & theatre are open on Saturdays from 10am - 1pm February to November.
We are closed over Easter and for special events.
Please check the website for details.
Free admission
Full disabled access
Regular scheduled talks and tours
Visits by arrangement:
- Groups
- Individuals
- Researchers
- Schools, primary to secondary. Including activities.
- Colleges and universities
Train: Hampton Wick Rail Station is about 35 minutes from Waterloo. The museum is a 7 minute walk away.
Bus: 281, 285 buses stop outside