10 Best Fountain Pens UK 2024 | Parker, Pilot and More

The Swiss know a thing or two about making things to a very high standard – just look at their work with chocolate, cheese and army knives. So, when Carran d'Ache opted to produce a fountain pen, we're pretty sure they were thinking about taking that up a notch too. And we're glad they did. 

Firstly, the whole pen is covered in palladium which, if you don't know, is a rare and lustrous metal. This is decorated with a braided design, which, combined with the material, gives a really lavish look. With a light weight and smaller length for comfort, if you're willing to splash the cash, you won't be disappointed. 

Using a quirky cocktail of offbeat materials, this pen from Faber-Castell is another fantastic option if you're looking for something more contemporary. The walnut used for the body has a unique feel to it, and while it might be unusual initially, you'll find yourself becoming more comfortable the more you use it. 

This wood is then adorned with chrome-plated metal at either end, giving the product a welcome bit of weight. When it comes to replenishing the ink stock, you can use either a cartridge or a converter, so this is a practical as well as a pretty choice. 

Rejoice, left-handers, because the folk at Lamy kept you in mind when whipping up some of their pens. This led to the utilisation of a left-handed nib. While in essence the same, the company designed it to work at a slightly steeper angle and with a little more of a push motion, therefore giving you a little more control.

Although the nib is designed differently, that doesn't stop it from coming in a wide range of different sizes, so you have access to whatever suits your handwriting style best. Other pluses include the stylish design and appealing price. 

The highlight of this pen is its innovative retractable nib which is operated with a click, meaning you'll never have to worry about losing the lid again! This mechanism is the first of its kind, and while it might seem more likely to leak, it is extremely secure. 

The pen works with either a cartridge or a converter, both of which are included in the purchase. With its 18 karat gold nib, this option from Pilot's Luxury Capless collection is a great buy if you're looking to invest in something that will last. Due to the additional components, it is on the heavier side, although this will be beneficial for some users. 

Another wallet-friendly option from Parker here, only this time it's cleverly named the Jotter. It has a stainless steel cap and body and a black grip, though it does come in many other colourways if you would prefer. Moreover, it combines a classy silhouette with a traditional feather-shaped steel nib, which we think is a particularly nice touch. 

Additionally, the company provide two additional blue ink cartridges, and it's all packaged in a lovely gift box. It might not be the fanciest pen out there, but if you're looking to get started, this could be the perfect place to begin without committing too much financially.

If you're looking for something a little different, you're going to love the Borneo from Cross's Wanderlust range. Its rich, swirling design is reminiscent of luscious rainforests, snowy mountain caps and firey canyons all in one. It's sure to make an impression on those who use it as we doubt they'll have written with one like it!

In addition to the unique design, the pen has a lot of well-revered practical features too. The gold nib is smooth and comes in a smaller 'fine' size, making it ideal for those with smaller handwriting or even left-handed folk who want less ink on the page. This special pen would make the perfect gift, we think. 

With this aptly named 'Expert' fountain pen from Waterman, it's going to feel like your writing is gliding or drifting across the page. Not only is the 23 karat gold-plated nib a joy to work with, but its perfect size and weight will be delightful for most too.

Furthermore, the pen has the option of re-filling either by cartridge or converter, adding another string to its sophisticated bow. However, while the reservoir can work with either replenish options, it is known to be a little intermittent, which could be frustrating. 

Since their inception in the late 1800s, Parker has become a household name in the world of fountain pens. While they do have pens in their arsenal that are worth hundreds of pounds, thankfully, they also cater for the more budget-conscious. 

That's where the Urban Fountain pen steps in. It maintains a simple and elegant design and has reliable, long-lasting parts that also provide a positive writing experience. It is a cartridge only affair, but it's hard to begrudge that at such a reasonable price. 

With a striking jet-black casing that's almost futuristic in design, this fountain pen really is like no other we've ever seen. Aside from the aesthetics, it has an all-over grip design which should see that it's extra-comfortable whether you're sketching or penning your latest masterpiece. 

It's worth mentioning that this is a pretty chunky option as far as fountain pens go, in fact, it's by far the largest in our ranking, so you'll want to make sure that you're comfortable with something this weighty before hitting the purchase button. 

Our first fountain pen recommendation is this mid-priced, mid-sized offering from Shaeffer. The Intensity pen is part of the company's Heritage range and it comes with a contemporary deep-edged, ridge-patterned finish while still maintaining a classic silhouette. 

The fact that the nib is steel but finished with a gold paint may attract some people, as you get the looks without the higher price tag. Similarly, it may put some people off due to its lack of authenticity. This is a pen from a very reliable brand though, who even provide a lifetime guarantee.