Derwent Pencil Museum

Home of the World's First Pencil

Home of the world’s first pencil, the Derwent Pencil Museum in Keswick tells the story of graphite mining and pencil-making in the Lake District. Quirky, educational and fun for families and art enthusiasts.

What to Expect

Interactive displays chart the history of pencil-making from the discovery of graphite in Borrowdale to modern manufacturing. There are drawing activities, a replica graphite mine and the world’s largest pencil.

The Experience

The museum is more engaging than you might expect, the replica mine is atmospheric, the world’s largest pencil is genuinely impressive, and the drawing activities give kids and adults a hands on creative outlet. The shop is a paradise for artists and stationery lovers.

Getting There & Essential Info

Derwent Pencil Museum is at Southey Works, Keswick (CA12 5NG). Open daily 9:30 am–5 pm. Tickets on entry.