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Cumberland Pencil Museum // Keswick

Pencil Museum, Keswick

Discover the history of pencil making and let children bring out their creative side.

Located in Keswick in the heart of the Lake District is the Cumberland Pencil Museum, a fun and interactive day out for all the family.

Enter through a replica graphite mine which lay the foundations for the start of the pencil industry over 350 years ago, following the history of pencil making from the Elizabeth I era through to present day with the use of words, photos and restored machine telling the story of pencil making through history. You can also discover the world's longest colouring pencil here.

There is lots for children to enjoy including a fun art studio that allows them use their imaginations as a crew of a pirate ship or member of a circus. Various displays include the different uses of pencils, different techniques and machinery used. And of course lots of opportunities to draw in the Kids Art Studio!

The first pencil factory opened in Keswick in 1832, followed by a second in the 1920s, and the region became known for its importance in the production of pencils. The Cumberland Pencil Museum opened in 1981 and over 80,000 people visit every year, and is also home to flagship store selling the most comprehensive range of Derwent and Lakeland products in the UK.

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