Keswick and the Derwent Pencil Museum

Keswick and the Derwent Pencil Museum

Keswick lies in the heart of the Lake District National Park, just north of Derwentwater, and is known for its dramatic surrounding landscapes and vibrant town centre. Your journey begins with a scenic drive through the Cumbrian countryside, passing traditional Lakeland villages as you travel toward Keswick.

Upon arrival, visit the Derwent Pencil Museum, located on the site where the first pencil was created more than 300 years ago. Enter through a replica graphite mine that reflects the origins of the local graphite industry before exploring the museum at leisure. Exhibits trace the development of pencil making from early cottage production to modern manufacturing. Highlights include secret WWII pencils, the world’s largest colour pencil, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee pencil, and a collection of intricate miniature pencil sculptures.

A short walk brings you into Keswick’s town center, where free time allows you to explore Market Square, overlooked by the iconic Moot Hall. Built in 1813, Moot Hall has long stood at the centre of town life, reflecting Keswick’s history as a market town serving the surrounding Lakeland communities. The nearby streets are lined with independent shops and galleries, many featuring the work of local artists and craftspeople.

Your visit concludes with a scenic drive back to Workington, passing through the landscapes of the Lake District National Park.

Notes: The total walking distance during this excursion is approximately 1.5 km (0.9 miles), with additional walking at guests’ discretion. In Keswick town, the main street has a slight gradient and includes some cobbled areas. Some streets and walkways in Keswick’s historic town center also feature cobbled surfaces and gentle slopes, which may require extra care when walking. The transfer between Workington and Keswick is approximately 1 hour each way. Comfortable shoes and an appropriate coat for the weather conditions on the day are recommended. The tour is wheelchair accessible with limitations; wheelchair users must be accompanied by a companion responsible for providing assistance throughout the tour. Scenic views of the surrounding fells and Derwentwater depend on weather and visibility conditions, which may change quickly due to cloud cover common in the Lake District region.
This Yachting Land Adventure must be confirmed no later than 48 hours (2 days) prior to arrival in port; bookings may still be accepted after this deadline, up to the time of arrival, if space is available. Please note that cancellations made within 48 hours of arrival in port are non‑refundable. A minimum number of participants is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures, and some may have limited capacity. Please book on the Seadream.com website, or onboard, early to avoid disappointment. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure times will be published on board.

Port: Workington, England

Duration: 4 hours

Current Price: 189 USD

Voyages where this land adventure may be found: