Pencil Works Trail Stapleford

How the trail works:

• Follow the map to each stop.
• Collect your sticker from the 'Pencil Hero' at every location.
• Scan the QR code to learn more and complete quick activities.

Did you know Stapleford once had its very own pencil factory? It made pencils for school kids, artists, designers, and even special pencils for soldiers! From 1915 to 1973, the factory was busy creating all kinds of colourful and clever pencils that travelled across the UK and the world.

The Chambers Family — The Pencil Pioneers!
The Chambers family were the super‑smart inventors who brought pencil making to Stapleford! They helped create new ideas, new tools, and lots of jobs for local families. Their creativity and teamwork made pencil magic happen! Frederik Chambers is pictured here.

 

Trail Highlights

• Pencils from Stapleford were used in schools all over the country!
• They made all sorts — from everyday pencils to special ones for soldiers.
• The factory was a big part of the community and helped lots of families.

Timeline at a Glance

1. 1915 - The pencil adventure begins! 
2. 1930s–1950s - Busy years full of new ideas and lots of pencil making.
3. 1973 -2026 - Factory closed in 1973 but the work continues till today under UK pencils 

Explore the Pencil Trail!
Follow the trail to spot fun facts, old factory locations, and cool stories about how pencils were made. Look out for signs, surprises, and little bits of history waiting to be discovered!

Pencil Works Trail - Celebrating creativity, history, and local pride!