Charles Darwin's former holiday home on the Kent coast could soon become an "animal empathy" museum.

Animal rights charity PETA is hoping to take over the Ramsgate house in which the famous naturalist once stayed.

Charles Darwin, renowned for his contributions to the science of evolution, studied barnacles at the seafront property in the 1800s.

The historic house is now up for sale, and PETA has written to estate agency Miles & Barr, inquiring about the possibility of converting it into a museum highlighting empathy for animals.

PETA founder, Ingrid Newkirk, said: "Charles Darwin’s ground-breaking theory of evolution established humans as just one animal among many, which is the very foundation of the modern animal rights movement.

"PETA’s empathy museum would celebrate Darwin’s legacy by reminding visitors that we’re all part of the great orchestra of life on Earth.”

Darwin is said to have argued in favour of the regulation of animal experiments in England, in a bid to prevent creatures from suffering unnecessarily.

He also campaigned against steel-jaw traps used by game wardens and fur trappers, once writing: “I have all my life been a strong advocate for humanity to animals.”

The Grade II-listed period home PETA is hoping to take over covers six floors, and has six bedrooms.

Sitting right on the seafront, it boasts views across Ramsgate harbour and marina, and is on the market with a guide price of £925,000.

It also features a blue plaque, recognising the fact that Darwin stayed there in 1850.

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