The Pen Museum

Museum Unit 3 The Argent Centre 60 Frederick Street Hockley Birmingham B1 3HS

During the 19th Century, 75% of everything written in the world was with a ‘Birmingham’ pen. Birmingham was at the forefront of this trade until it declined in the 1950’s with the invention of the biro and fountain pen. At one time there were about 100 factories in the Jewellery Quarter area. The development of the steel pen reduced the cost of writing and enabled the spread of literacy throughout the world.

Set in the atmosphere of a former Victorian pen factory, The Pen Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of this trade. There is ongoing research into the social, historical and technical aspects of the trade and also the Jewellery Quarter itself.  The museum has assisted people in tracing their genealogy and is keen to hear from anybody who has had connections with the trade.

The Pen Museum is more than just a passive museum with objects on display. It is a hands-on collection! Visitors can try writing with a variety of different implements including quills and typewriters; you can also try writing in Braille or make your own pen nib using original machinery.

The Pen Museum has a range of educational activities that covers both formal and informal learning. The collection can be used to support a variety of curricular subjects including literacy, local history, and citizenship. Calligraphy Classes are held regularly at the Museum see website for details.

The Museum is keen to form partnerships with community groups to encourage participation in various cultural activities.

A meeting room is available for hire with free WI-FI access and refreshments (available on request). More information can be found here.

Admission Fee:

Adult £7.95
Concession (Adults 65+) £6.95
Student £5.95
Child £3.95
Child (under 5) £0.00
Essential Carer £0.00

Family Tickets

1 Adult 3 Children £17.80
2 Adults 2 Children £21.80

Tickets can be pre-booked online via ArtFund