Museum Art Heritage

Derwent Pencil Museum - Best Price Tickets

Book now from £6.25 per adult

Welcome to the Derwent Pencil Museum, home of the world's largest pencil! 

Located in the picturesque Lake District, the Derwent Pencil Museum is a gem of a museum that's well worth a visit. 

The museum is a fascinating insight into the history of pencil-making and the brand that's been crafting these handy little tools for over 180 years. You'll discover the different techniques used to create the perfect pencil, from graphite mining to wood processing, and get to see rare antique pencils from around the world.

Learn and discover in this interactive museum in Cumbria, a perfect day out for families

But it's not all about the history. The museum also boasts the world's largest pencil, standing tall at a whopping 26 feet! You can't help but feel a little dwarfed standing next to it, but it's a great spot for a fun photo op.

For the young (and young at heart), there's an interactive exhibit where you can make your own pencil, and even personalize it with your name. And if that's not enough, there's also a graphite cave replica for you to walk through, as well as a pencil-themed play area for kids to burn off some energy.

But let's not forget the gift shop, where you can stock up on all sorts of pencils, from classic graphite to vibrant coloured ones. They even have pencils made from recycled denim and newspaper, which make for unique souvenirs to take home.

With 80,000 visitors a year, Derwent Pencil Museum makes an excellent destination for rainy days out in Lake District

And if all that exploring works up an appetite, then make the most of the museum café serving up delicious homemade cakes and scones. There's even a pencil-inspired menu, with dishes like "pencil toppers" (mini quiches) and "pencil shavings" (chocolate curls).

The Derwent Pencil Museum is a quirky and fun-filled day out for all ages. So next time you're in the Lake District, be sure to 'pencil' it into your itinerary!

Book your tickets to the Derwent Pencil Museum in the Lake District today!

Cumbria
CA12 5NG

How to find us

By car

Follow signs for A66 Keswick. Ignore first sign for Keswick after approximately 16 miles. Continue on the A66 to the next roundabout and take the first exit. Continue to the T-junction and turn left towards Keswick Town Centre. You will now see the factory on your left. Take the first left and follow the signs to the museum.

By train

The nearest train station is Penrith, which is approximately 17 miles away. It is on the West Coast Main Line and is regularly served by trains from the North and South. A bus service taking approximately 40 minutes connects Penrith Station with Keswick Bus Station. Keswick Taxis will meet trains by prior arrangement.

By bus

The main bus station is located approximately 5 minutes walk away. There are regular bus services to and from Keswick from the surrounding area.

30th October 2023 - 18th March 2024

Winter opening times
Sunday: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm
Monday - Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday - Saturday: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Paid parking
  • Café 
  • Toilets

People also ask: 

When is the Derwent Pencil Museum open?

  • The Derwent Pencil Museum is open 09:30 to 17:00 from the 1st of April 2023 to 31st of October 2023. 

Are dogs allowed in the Derwent Pencil Museum?

  • Yes, dogs are welcome into the museum if they are on a lead. Unfortunately, they can not go inside the café but there is outside seating.

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