Birmingham Pen Show 2025
Sadly, I couldn’t make it to the Birmingham Pen Show this year. It’s a UK show that I always enjoy. Fortunately, my good friend and pen buddy, Vijay M, very kindly agreed to write up a blog guest post and provide some photos - which only made me regret not being able to attend even more! Vijay is an accomplished collector and user of pens. Thanks Vijay for your fantastic post - over to you:
“Birmingham Pen Show 2025
Date: Sunday, 22nd June 2025
Location: Birmingham Conference and Events Centre (BCEC)
Another summer, another Birmingham Pen Show and it just keeps getting better.
This year's show felt like a great blend of independent makers, vintage and modern resellers, and above all, a warm and welcoming community of fellow fountain pen enthusiasts. Whether you were hunting for a nib grind, trying out artisan pens, or just catching up with friends, the day had something for everyone.
Arriving Early: Worth the Effort
I got to the venue at around 8:45 AM and parked at the NCP car park right next door which was super convenient. There was already a gentle buzz of excitement as the early bird queue began to form. We waited about 10 minutes for the doors to open, and being among the lucky first 30 or so through the door meant one thing: the coveted CultPens goodie bag It's always a nice touch that makes that early start feel worthwhile.
The Venue: Central, Accessible, and Ideal for the Pen Show
Held once again at the Birmingham Conference and Events Centre, the location couldn't be better. It's just a few minutes' walk from New Street Station, easily accessible by bus, train, or car, and a short walk to cafes and restaurants for a post-show bite or quick break. Inside, the venue offers just the right mix of space and intimacy, big enough to house a great range of vendors, yet personal enough for relaxed conversations in the dedicated space just outside the main hall.
Vendor Highlights: What Caught My Eye
As always, the vendor list was excellent, with a strong presence from both established retailers and smaller independent makers. Here's what stood out for me:
Write Here
A must-stop for me at every show. Write Here never disappoints with their selection of pens, inks, and accessories. I picked up a few things including a new Stipula Etruria Rainbow Orange and was happy to see they're now an official Lochby reseller. A great move, and a sign that they continue to listen to what the pen community wants.
VitStyle
VitStyle showcasing a refined and curated collection of Japanese pens both new and vintage alongside ink and accessories. I treated myself to a beautiful two-pen kimono case, and it's already become a favourite for carrying my daily writers in style.
Aurora & Santini
It's always a joy catching up with Kirit, who brought a strong selection of Aurora and Santini pens. One that particularly stood out was the Aurora Mappe Antiche Tolomeo, a limited edition fountain pen with deep blue hues and rich historical inspiration. As always, Kirit's table combined friendly advice with elegant pens. Always tempted here ....
Celebrating Independent Makers
This year's Birmingham show really shone when it came to highlighting independent and artisan pen makers. These are the creators adding soul and individuality to the pen world and I loved spending time at their tables.
John Sanderson -- SilverBurl Pens
It was a pleasure talking with John Sanderson, whose pens blend traditional craft with striking visual appeal. His use of sterling silver trims and clips all made by hand is something truly special. I especially admired one of his facetted models and another range fitted with a No. 8 nib. John even casts his own blanks, though he also works with standout makers like Jonathan Brooks and Turnt Pen Co. It's clear he's passionate about materials and detail, and I'm definitely planning to add one of his creations to my collection soon.
Vazir Pens
It was great to meet the UK representative for Vazir, who had an exciting table full of rich, unexpected materials. I ended up picking up a Vazir Lizard in blue cellulose acetate a stunner with real depth and a shape that feels great for everyday use. Vazir is a brand to watch, especially as their material choices move beyond the usual scope of Indian pen makers.
Gilbert House Pens
Always great to see Brad and his table of tempting designs. A master of hybrid materials and excellent finishing, he had some outstanding pens on display and of course, many of them fitted with Cypress nibs, which are consistently reliable. I managed to walk away with just one pen (just!), a real eye-catcher in a Black Snake finish.
A New Name with a Deep History: TOM HESSIN
One of the newer brands making a quiet splash was TOM HESSIN a name with surprising roots. Though they're now launching a line of everyday fountain pens, their story actually dates back to 1870 in Birmingham, where they were once a key distributor in the pen trade. It's great to see a brand honouring its legacy while stepping confidently into the modern pen scene. The pens are available online at their website or via CultPens.
Accessories, Paper, and More
Oneministore
A great spot for notebooks and accessories. I picked up a B6 Klein ring-bound notebook, which I'm already finding to be a handy, portable option for daily notes and lists plus fountain pen friendly. Their stall was a treasure trove for stationery lovers. Will be a must visit at the next show.
The Value of Local Shows
One of the highlights of the day was chatting with Vince, one of the show organisers. He shared how important regional pen shows like Birmingham are and not just as alternatives to the bigger London events, but as complementary gatherings that bring together those who may not be able to travel far. These events allow people to connect with vendors, try pens in person, and build friendships within the community.
Final Thoughts
The Birmingham Pen Show 2025 had both traditional and modern vendors which was big enough to excite, but personal enough to feel grounded. Whether you came for a rare vintage find, a handmade pen, or just the chance to chat with fellow enthusiasts, it delivered.
I left with a few treasures, lots of inspiration, and even more appreciation for this community.
If you haven't yet experienced a local pen show defiantly make plans for the next one. You won't regret it.
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Did you attend the show? What were your favourite finds? Let me know in the comments or tag me in your posts!”
