Pen Museum

About

Nestled in Birmingham’s bustling Jewellery Quarter, the Pen Museum chronicles the city’s rich legacy of steel pen manufacturing. Open since 2001, the museum showcases a comprehensive collection of nibs, inks, and related artifacts that tell the story of how Birmingham once produced three‑quarters of the world’s pens in the 19th century. Visitors walk through interactive galleries, watch live fly‑press demonstrations, and even create their own nibs using authentic historic machinery. The museum offers a range of age‑appropriate activities, from call‑igraphy workshops to interactive kiosks featuring 3‑D imagery, ensuring a fun learning experience for families, history enthusiasts, and art lovers alike. Admission to the museum is inexpensive, with adult tickets priced at £8.50 and discounted rates for students, concessions, and children. There are also free entry options for children under five, making it an affordable outing for families. A quick online purchase is possible via the museum’s ticketing page, and the occasionally sold‑out lunchtime demonstration runs are available for reservation. The museum occupies the historic Argent Centre, a former pen factory built in 1863, giving visitors a genuine feel of the industrial heritage housed within its walls. The ground‑floor layout and accessible toilets make it easy for all visitors to explore the exhibits.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes

Tickets & pricing