The Pen Museum, Birmingham's Legacy of Steel Pen Manufacturing
Discover Birmingham’s unique pen-making heritage in a historic factory setting with hands-on exhibits and rich industrial stories.
Located in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, the Pen Museum preserves the rich heritage of the city's 19th-century steel pen trade. Housed in the Grade II* listed Argent Centre, a former pen factory built in 1863, the museum showcases an extensive collection of pen nibs, machinery, and artifacts. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, learn about the industry's global impact, and even try making their own pen nib using original factory presses.
A brief summary to Pen Museum
- The Argent Centre, 60 Frederick St, Birmingham, B1 3HS, GB
- +441212369834
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Try making your own steel pen nib using original factory presses for a memorable hands-on experience.
- Visit on weekends or Thursdays to enjoy full access to interactive demonstrations and workshops.
- Explore the museum’s small events space available for hire, perfect for historical team outings or workshops.
- Take time to learn about the significant role women played in Birmingham’s pen manufacturing industry.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From Birmingham New Street Station, take a 15-20 minute walk through the Jewellery Quarter to the Argent Centre. The route is mostly flat and accessible, with frequent train services from across the UK. No parking is available at the museum.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the Jewellery Quarter area, including numbers 8, 10, and 63. From Birmingham city center, buses take approximately 10-15 minutes to reach stops near Frederick Street. Tickets cost around £2-£3 GBP one way.
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Car
Driving to the Argent Centre is possible, but parking is limited and mainly metered on nearby streets. Expect to pay £5-£10 GBP for parking in local car parks within a 5-10 minute walk. The area can be busy during weekdays.
Pen 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 Pen Museum
A Glimpse into Birmingham's Industrial Past
The Pen Museum is situated within the Argent Centre, a striking Lombardic Renaissance Italian style building constructed in 1863 originally as the Albert Works pen factory. This historic site stands as a testament to Birmingham's pivotal role in the global pen trade during the Victorian era. At its peak, Birmingham was home to around 129 pen manufacturing companies employing approximately 8,000 workers, predominantly women, producing up to 75% of the world's steel pen nibs. The museum preserves this industrial legacy through its rich collection and evocative displays.Exploring the Museum's Unique Collections and Exhibits
The museum houses over 5,000 items related to the steel pen trade, including a vast array of pen nibs, ink pots, sales displays, and original machinery. Exhibits detail the manufacturing processes, the lives of the workers, and the evolution of writing instruments. Visitors can engage with interactive kiosks featuring 3D images, watch videos, and participate in hands-on activities such as writing with quills, early typewriters, and Braille machines. A highlight is the opportunity to make your own steel pen nib using the same presses once operated by factory workers.Celebrating the People Behind the Pens
The museum tells the stories of entrepreneurs like Josiah Mason, who helped found the University of Birmingham, and the thousands of workers, many of them women and children, who powered the pen industry. It highlights how the mass production of affordable steel pens contributed significantly to global literacy and education. The museum also honors the dedication of volunteers and historians who have preserved this heritage since the museum’s founding in 2001.Interactive Learning and Community Engagement
Designed to appeal to visitors of all ages, the Pen Museum offers educational workshops, school visits, and volunteer opportunities. Its events space can be hired for meetings and talks, making it a hub for cultural and historical engagement in the Jewellery Quarter. The museum’s team strives to provide an immersive experience that brings to life Birmingham’s industrial past and its worldwide influence on writing and literacy.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The Argent Centre itself is a Grade II* listed building, embodying the architectural grandeur of the mid-19th century industrial era. Its preservation alongside the museum’s collections offers a tangible link to Birmingham’s manufacturing heritage. The Pen Museum stands as the only museum in the UK dedicated solely to the history of the pen making industry, emphasizing Birmingham's unique contribution to this global trade.A Lasting Legacy in the Heart of Birmingham
Though the rise of fountain pens and ballpoint pens eventually ended the steel nib trade, the Pen Museum ensures that this vital chapter of Birmingham’s industrial and social history is not forgotten. It celebrates the craftsmanship, innovation, and social impact of the pen trade, inviting visitors to reflect on how this humble tool shaped communication worldwide.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chamberlain Clock
0.3 km
An elegant Edwardian clock tower at the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, built in 1903 as a memorial to Joseph Chamberlain and recently restored to its former glory.
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
0.3 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
The Best of Birmingham Trail
0.7 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Chamberlain Memorial
0.7 km
A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
The River
0.8 km
Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
Gem Buildings
0.9 km
Historic Gem Buildings on Key Hill showcase Birmingham's rich jewelry industry heritage and early 20th-century industrial architecture.
Workers Memorial
1.0 km
A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
Historic England
1.0 km
Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
Bullring & Grand Central
1.4 km
Explore Birmingham's Bullring & Grand Central: a shopping and dining paradise that blends modern architecture with an unforgettable experience.
National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs
1.5 km
Experience Birmingham's rich history at the iconic Back to Backs, a unique museum showcasing 19th-century urban life through preserved homes.
St. Martin's
1.5 km
Explore St. Martin's Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Birmingham, where architectural beauty and rich history await every visitor.
The Selfridges Building
1.5 km
A shimmering silver landmark in Birmingham’s Bullring, where shopping meets futuristic architecture and luxury retail in a sculptural masterpiece.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
1.7 km
Unleash your curiosity at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, where science comes to life through interactive exhibits and engaging experiences for all ages.
Millennium Point
1.7 km
Explore Millennium Point, Birmingham's architectural marvel and vibrant venue for conferences, exhibitions, and community events.
Kids' Park
1.7 km
Discover Kids' Park in Birmingham, where adventure meets learning in a family-friendly environment filled with fun activities and lush greenery.
Unmissable attractions to see
J. W. Evans Silver Factory
0.1 km
Step into Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter to explore the remarkably preserved J. W. Evans Silver Factory, a century-old industrial treasure of silversmithing heritage.
Newhall Hill
0.1 km
Discover Newhall Hill’s scenic views and historic charm in Birmingham’s vibrant Soho & Jewellery Quarter district.
Jewellery Quarter
0.1 km
Discover Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, a historic and creative hub where centuries-old craftsmanship meets vibrant culture and modern design.
New hall Hill - Historical Signature!
0.2 km
Explore the historical charm of New Hall Hill in Birmingham, a captivating tourist attraction rich in heritage and local culture.
St Paul's Square
0.4 km
Birmingham’s last Georgian square, blending historic elegance with vibrant modern culture in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter.
Lock 3, Farmers Bridge Locks
0.4 km
Discover the historic Lock 3 within Birmingham’s iconic Farmers Bridge Locks, a captivating canal engineering marvel in the city centre.
St. Paul's Church
0.4 km
Explore St. Paul's Church, a Georgian architectural gem and historic spiritual heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
The Coffin Works
0.4 km
A Victorian coffin factory preserved as a time-capsule museum, revealing the craftsmanship behind royal funerals and industrial Birmingham.
Lock 1, Farmers Bridge Locks
0.4 km
Historic flight of 13 canal locks showcasing Birmingham’s industrial heritage and vibrant urban waterways.
The Jewellery Quarter
0.5 km
Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter: a vibrant hub of craftsmanship, culture, and creativity since the 18th century.
The Secret Garden
0.6 km
Discover a peaceful rooftop oasis with stunning city views atop Birmingham’s iconic Library of Birmingham.
Library of Birmingham
0.6 km
Discover the Library of Birmingham: a modern architectural gem with vast collections, rooftop gardens, and vibrant cultural spaces in the city’s heart.
Birmingham & Midland Institute
0.6 km
Historic cultural landmark fostering education, arts, and science in Birmingham since 1854, with a renowned library and vibrant programs.
Hall of Memory
0.6 km
Discover the Hall of Memory in Birmingham, a significant memorial dedicated to the bravery of those who served in the World Wars amidst serene gardens.
Centenary Winter Carousels
0.7 km
Experience festive joy and colorful carousels in Birmingham’s vibrant Centenary Square during the magical winter season.
Essential places to dine
The Button Factory
0.1 km
A stylish blend of industrial heritage and modern dining, The Button Factory offers vibrant food, drinks, and rooftop vibes in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Cappadocia Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality await you in Birmingham’s Cappadocia Restaurant on Frederick Street.
Lasan Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
Experience Birmingham’s premier fine dining Indian restaurant blending authentic flavors with modern culinary artistry in the stylish Jewellery Quarter.
Pasta Di Piazza
0.3 km
Authentic Italian dining with generous portions and warm service in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
24 Carat Bistro
0.3 km
Hidden gem serving slow-cooked goat curry and Punjabi fusion in Birmingham's historic Jewelry Quarter.
The Wilderness
0.3 km
Experience bold British fine dining with innovative tasting menus in a moody, industrial-chic setting at Birmingham’s Wilderness.
Restaurant Folium
0.3 km
Intimate modern British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Opheem
0.4 km
Experience Michelin-starred Indian cuisine reimagined with British seasonal flair in Birmingham’s elegant Opheem.
Kopitiam
0.4 km
Discover authentic Malaysian street food and warm family hospitality in Birmingham’s vibrant Jewellery Quarter at Kopitiam.
The Rolling Mill
0.4 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending traditional British charm with modern culinary delights and lively atmosphere.
Locanta italian restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Italian dining in a historic Victorian setting with fresh seafood, handmade pasta, fine wines, and live music in Birmingham’s city centre.
Decorum Restaurant Birmingham
0.5 km
Elegant steakhouse in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending refined dining with stylish ambiance and cultural charm.
Cucina Rustica
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors crafted with passion in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter at Cucina Rustica.
Somewhere in Brum
0.5 km
A vibrant bar and brunch spot in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, blending diverse cuisine with a lively social atmosphere.
Dishoom Birmingham
0.7 km
A vibrant 1960s Bombay café in central Birmingham, serving bold Indian street food and classics in a theatrical, nostalgic setting with a large outdoor terrace.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fine Jewellery Collections & Bespoke Design Service
0.0 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where custom gems and fine collections craft heirlooms with personal stories etched in gold.
SACET
0.3 km
Ethical elegance awaits at SACET, Birmingham's sustainable jewellery gem in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter—where timeless craft meets modern conscience.
Artfull Expression
0.3 km
Discover independent jewelry artistry in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Artfull Expression, where unique handcrafted designs blend historic craft with modern flair.
Top Jewellery UK
0.3 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Top Jewellery, where family expertise crafts diamonds, gold, and silver into timeless treasures.
Quarter Jewellery
0.3 km
Independent jeweller on Warstone Lane offering commissions, valuations and attentive, workshop‑minded service in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Buff Jewellery
0.3 km
Timeless minimalist jewellery handcrafted in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—personalised birthstone designs blending sentiment, subtlety, and modern British elegance for everyday sparkle.
Adamas Antique Jewellery
0.4 km
A boutique Jewellery Quarter shop offering curated antique and estate jewels with specialist appraisal and bespoke care.
Ivy and Rose Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover handmade UK treasures at Ivy and Rose, Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter boutique for unique jewelry, candles, and artisanal gifts from local makers. (162 characters)
Arnett Creations - Unique Quality Jewellery
0.4 km
Discover bespoke Sterling Silver and hallmarked gold jewellery in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where expert craftsmanship meets personalized service at Arnett Creations.
A&N Jewellery
0.4 km
Discover family-crafted silver treasures and bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's legendary Jewellery Quarter, where 50 years of expertise meets timeless elegance.
Design Centre
0.4 km
Family-crafted diamonds and luxury watches in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter since 1977—timeless elegance for life's milestones.
Gingermegs Vintage
0.7 km
Discover timeless style and impeccable vintage finds at Gingermegs Vintage, Birmingham’s boutique for authentic retro fashion and antiques.
Designer Exchange
1.0 km
Discover authenticated preloved luxury fashion in Birmingham’s elegant Victorian Great Western Arcade.
Community Gift Shop
1.0 km
Discover unique products and support diverse entrepreneurs at Birmingham’s Black Pounds Project Community Gift Shop in the historic Great Western Arcade.
The Alice Boutique
1.0 km
Discover timeless vintage-inspired fashion in a charming boutique nestled within Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
1000 Trades
0.1 km
A vibrant neighbourhood bar celebrating Birmingham’s industrial heritage with craft beers, local food, and a quirky artistic vibe.
Lucky7
0.1 km
Precision mixology meets playful vibes in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—a relaxed haven for cocktail lovers seeking crafted perfection.
The Pig & Tail
0.2 km
Victorian charm with a punchy, colourful gastropub vibe — British small plates, rotating craft beer and lively evenings in the Jewellery Quarter.
The Rose Villa Tavern
0.3 km
Classic British pub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, serving hearty meals, diverse drinks, and warm hospitality amid historic streets.
Queen's Arms birmingham
0.3 km
Traditional Jewellery Quarter pub pouring fine ales in a quirky, welcoming space with games, books, and hearty grub amid Birmingham's historic heart. (162 characters)
The Red Lion
0.4 km
Traditional Hockley pub fusing heritage, modern art, and hearty British fare in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem on lively Warstone Lane.
40 St Paul's
0.4 km
Discover Birmingham's hidden gin speakeasy: 100+ global varieties, intimate vibes, and masterful cocktails in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter.
Actress & Bishop
0.5 km
Two floors, live music every night and a split personality — cosy downstairs, sweaty upstairs — in the Jewellery Quarter.
The Jewellers Arms
0.6 km
Traditional Birmingham boozer in the Jewellery Quarter: exceptional real ales, hearty pies, and cosy fireside chats since the 1830s.
Malt House
0.6 km
A vibrant British pub in Birmingham city centre offering classic dishes, lively atmosphere, and a great spot for social gatherings near the arena.
All Bar One Brindleyplace
0.7 km
Stylish canal-side wine bar and cocktail lounge in Birmingham’s vibrant Westside, perfect for bottomless brunches and lively evenings.
The Alchemist Brindleyplace
0.7 km
Experience Birmingham’s theatrical cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindleyplace, where molecular mixology meets creative cuisine above the canal.
Pitcher & Piano Birmingham
0.7 km
A stylish canal-side bar in Brindley Place, Birmingham, perfect for all-day dining, cocktails, and vibrant social experiences.
Slug & Lettuce - Birmingham
0.7 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindley Place offering vibrant drinks, tasty bites, and late-night fun in Birmingham’s city centre.
Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham
0.7 km
Lively cocktail bar in Birmingham’s Brindley Place offering extensive drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and expert bartenders for unforgettable nights.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
PAVO Birmingham
0.2 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
0.6 km
Dive under Birmingham's arches into Tunnel Club's seven-room warehouse wonderland, where house, techno, and hip-hop fuel all-night dances amid pounding bass and vivid lights.
Dreams Night club and Shisha
0.7 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
Reflex - Birmingham
0.7 km
Spin into 80s-00s nostalgia at Reflex Birmingham: revolving dance floor, karaoke booths, neon vibes, and epic sing-alongs on Broad Street's party strip.
Rosies - Birmingham
0.8 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
Popworld - Birmingham
0.8 km
Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
What do you mean
0.9 km
Dive into Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at What Do You Mean, a premier nightclub known for electrifying music, creative cocktails, and an unforgettable party vibe.
DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
0.9 km
Ignite your night in Birmingham's diamond district at this glittering nightclub, where top DJs, stunning lights, and electric crowds create pure nightlife magic.
Snobs
1.1 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad Street.
King of clubs
1.1 km
Compact late‑night Birmingham club for high‑energy R&B, hip‑hop and DJ nights, pulsing into the small hours with neon, bass and bar-driven parties.
Bambu Nightclub
1.4 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
101 Night Club
1.5 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Sobar
1.5 km
Dive into Birmingham's electric nightlife at Sobar, where R&B beats, masterful cocktails, and inclusive vibes fuel unforgettable weekend revelry in the heart of the Arcadian.
Mango Night Club
1.6 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
Nightingale Club
1.7 km
Birmingham's legendary LGBTQIA+ superclub: three floors of pulsating beats, go-go glamour, and five decades of unapologetic queer joy in the Gay Village.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Educational
- Interactive
- Historic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- 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
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Educational
- 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
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
