Derwent Pencil Museum

Museum Overview

The Derwent Pencil Museum is located near Keswick in Cumbria. Keswick is actually the home of the first pencil and visitors enter this museum through a replica graphite mine.

With a proud heritage dating back to 1832 Derwent has been manufacturing pencils in the Lake District ever since. The museum opened in 1981 and it is home to one of the biggest colouring pencils in the world.

Through words, pictures and carefully restored machinery you can trace the history of pencil making and see how Derwent fine art pencils are made today. There are seasonal, children’s activities, product demonstrations and lots of colouring in. Plus some miniature pencil sculptures, secret WWII pencils with hidden maps and more.

Further Information Derwent Pencil Museum

Is there food and drink available?

There is a cafe serving food and drinks.

What are the main things to do?

The museum opened in 1981 and it is home to one of the biggest colouring pencils in the world. There are toilets and a cafe.

What are the ticket prices?

Adults are £4.95, children £3.95, under 5 are free and family tickets are available.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.

Is there parking?

There is parking nearby, but charges apply.

When are they open?

The museum is open for most of the year with some mid-week closure over winter. For up-to-date opening times and dates please visit their website.

Dog friendly?

Dogs are welcome in the museum on leads and in the outside seating area of the cafe.

Are they accessible?

Please contact the venue