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Derwent Pencil Museum



Home of the world's first pencil!


Located in Keswick, the home of the first pencil, visitors enter this museum through a replica graphite mine which would have served as the source of the pencil industry over three centuries ago.

A journey of graphite and pencil discovery from its humble beginnings as a cottage industry to modern day production.

Discover our secret WW2 pencils with hidden maps; one of the largest colour pencils in the world measuring almost 8 metres; The Queen's diamond Jubilee pencil; miniature pencil sculptures; and much more!

A great day-out for the family and we look forward to welcoming you.


Facilities

  • Derwent Gift Shop - can't wait until you get here? Check out our online gift store!
  • Coffee Shop
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Baby changing facilities


Opening times

Summer opening hours

From 1st April to 1st November 2026.

Open 7 days a week from 9:30am to 5:00pm.

Please note last admission will be 4:00pm.


Pricing

Tickets can only be purchased on site.

Admission prices

Adult: £6.65
Child: £5.85
Senior/Concession: £5.55



Family

1 adult + 1 child: £11.00
1 adult + 2 children: £16.15
2 adults + 1 child: £16.85
2 adults + 2 children: £22.00
2 adults + 3 children: £26.95


Membership

Yearly membership: £33.50
(Two adults and up to 3 children)
Includes 10% discount in the coffee shop and gift shop.

Museum Access and exit during Keswick Convention (Saturday 19th July to Sunday 9th August) will only be available via Keswick Convention security, located in the Convention car park. Our usual entrance routes will not be open during this time.

Parking

Please note: the car park is not owned or managed by the Derwent Pencil Museum. ANPR cameras have been installed, and payment is required on arrival. Please see car park notices for Terms and Conditions.

This car park will be closed to all vehicles from Monday 29th June and will reopen week commencing 10th August.

Parking for the Museum during Keswick Convention can be found at Rawnsley Hall car park.

Address and directions

Address:
The Derwent Pencil Museum
Southey Works,
Keswick,
Cumbria,
CA12 5NG
UK

Phone: 01768 773626


See location on map.


How to get here?


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