Keswick Pencil Museum, Keswick

Nestled in the charming town of Keswick within the scenic Lake District National Park, the Keswick Pencil Museum is a unique attraction that offers a deep dive into the history and art of pencil making. This quaint museum, though small in size, holds a special place in the hearts of art enthusiasts, historians, and families looking for an educational and enjoyable day out.

As visitors step into the museum, they are greeted with the story of how Keswick became a hub for pencil production, due to the discovery of graphite in the nearby Borrowdale Valley in the 16th century. The museum's exhibits trace the evolution of pencils from these early beginnings to the modern-day. Among the highlights is the World War II-era "spy pencil" – a secret gadget that concealed a hidden map and compass for soldiers captured behind enemy lines.

The museum not only showcases the history but also the manufacturing process of pencils. Interactive displays and video presentations give visitors an insider's look at how raw materials are transformed into the pencils we use today. For the artistically inclined, the museum offers a delightful experience with opportunities to see a range of pencils used by professional artists and to try their hand at drawing in the dedicated art studio space.

A visit to the Keswick Pencil Museum is not complete without a stop at the gift shop, where you can purchase a variety of pencils, art materials, and souvenirs to remember your visit. The museum also provides educational workshops for school groups and hosts occasional events that celebrate the art of drawing and the craft of pencil making.