Derwent Pencil Museum, Cumbria Travel Guide

4.4 (2630)

Explore the fascinating history and artistry of pencil making at Keswick’s unique Derwent Pencil Museum, home to the world’s largest coloured pencil.

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Derwent Pencil Museum

The Derwent Pencil Museum in Keswick, Cumbria, is a unique museum dedicated to the history and craft of pencil making. Visitors enter through a replica graphite mine and explore the evolution of pencils from early cottage industry origins to modern innovations. Highlights include the world’s largest coloured pencil, secret WWII pencils with hidden maps, and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee pencil. The museum offers engaging exhibits, a retail shop, and a coffee shop, making it a fascinating day out for families and art enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Derwent Pencil Museum

Southey Works, Keswick, Cumbria, UK, CA12 5NG, GB
Click to display
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Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Derwent Pencil Museum.

Visit on weekdays outside Monday and Tuesday when the museum is closed during winter months.
Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the exhibits and enjoy the retail shop and café.
Look out for the secret WWII pencils with hidden maps, a highlight of the museum’s unique collection.
Combine your visit with other Lake District attractions for a full day of cultural and natural exploration.

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Explore Derwent Pencil Museum on the Map

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Getting There

Bus

Take the Stagecoach bus service from Keswick town center to Southey Works, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Services run regularly but check schedules for seasonal variations. The stop is a short walk from the museum entrance.
Car

Driving from Keswick town center takes about 5-10 minutes via the A66. Parking is available nearby but is managed by ANPR cameras requiring payment on arrival, so bring payment method and check signage carefully.
Walking

For active visitors, walking from Keswick town center to the museum takes around 30-40 minutes along mostly flat terrain. The route is accessible but not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers due to some uneven surfaces.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

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Visitor Center

Discover more about Derwent Pencil Museum

Origins of Pencil Crafting in Keswick

The Derwent Pencil Museum is situated in Keswick, the historic home of the first pencil, where graphite was discovered in the nearby Borrowdale Valley in the early 16th century. Originally mistaken for 'black lead,' this mineral became a valuable resource that sparked a cottage industry of pencil making in the Keswick area by the late 1700s. The museum’s entrance is designed as a replica graphite mine, immersing visitors in the environment that fueled over three centuries of pencil production.

From Cottage Industry to Global Innovation

The museum traces the transformation of pencil making from hand-crafted cottage industry beginnings to the establishment of the Cumberland Pencil Company in 1832. This company evolved through various owners and innovations, including the creation of the first coloured pencil in 1932. Today, Derwent continues to blend traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, producing high-quality pencils and art materials in the Lake District.

Remarkable Exhibits and Stories

Among the museum’s standout attractions is the Guinness World Record-holding largest coloured pencil, nearly 8 metres long. Visitors can also discover miniature pencil sculptures and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee pencil, crafted with original Borrowdale graphite and adorned with diamonds and white gold. A fascinating secret exhibit reveals WWII-era pencils containing hidden maps and compasses, created covertly to aid prisoners of war.

The Museum Experience and Amenities

The museum offers a rich, interactive experience with informative displays, videos, and hands-on exhibits. Adjacent to the museum is the Derwent Fine Art retail shop, featuring an extensive range of pencils and art supplies for all ages and skill levels. The on-site coffee shop provides refreshments and free Wi-Fi, creating a welcoming space to relax after exploring the museum.

Resilience and Heritage Preservation

The museum has faced challenges, including severe flooding in 2015 that damaged many exhibits. Despite this, it has preserved much of its collection and continues to celebrate Keswick’s pencil-making heritage. The museum stands as a testament to the region’s industrial history and artistic legacy, inspiring visitors with stories of innovation and craftsmanship.

Engaging for All Visitors

The Derwent Pencil Museum is a captivating destination for families, artists, historians, and anyone intrigued by the evolution of everyday objects. Its blend of history, artistry, and quirky anecdotes offers a memorable cultural experience in the heart of the Lake District.