Derwent Pencil Museum, Keswick
Explore the fascinating history and artistry of pencil making at Keswick’s unique Derwent Pencil Museum, home to the world’s largest coloured pencil.
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
- +441768773626
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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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
Local tips
- 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.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
Derwent Pencil Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Keswick Museum
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Keswick Methodist Church
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Keswick Alhambra Cinema
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A charming century-old cinema blending vintage charm with modern projection, nestled in Keswick’s vibrant town centre.
Crosthwaite Church, Keswick
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Hope Park
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Friars Crag
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Castlerigg Stone Circle
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Derwentwater
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Brandlehow Park
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Ashness Bridge
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Essential places to dine
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The Inn on the Lake
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Cockermouth Brewers Fayre
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New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
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Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
17.8 km
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The Jumble Room
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Rampsbeck Restaurant
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Horse and Farrier
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Stove Restaurant & Bar
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The Wild Duck Inn
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1863 Restaurant with Rooms
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The Clickham Inn
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The Conservatory Restaurant at The Melbreak Hotel
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Dodds Restaurant
22.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
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Alternative
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Love the Lakes Keswick
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CONQUER Trading Post
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The Barn
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The Unicorn
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Educational
- Unique
- Family Friendly
- Quirky
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
