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Compass is offline while we prepare our new tools

Compass is offline while we prepare our new tools

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Scouting Heritage

Remembering the past, embracing the future

Have you ever wondered what Scouts in the past wore, thought or did?

The Scouts Heritage Collection holds over 250,000 photographs, diaries, letters and objects that tell the story of over 100 years of Scouts activities.

Our huge collection illustrates the story of Scouts, dating from Scouts’ earliest days as a concept developed from Robert Baden-Powell’s book, ‘Scouting for Boys’.

The collection shows the changes within the movement, and it demonstrates the ways in which Scouts has built on Robert Baden-Powell’s original idea to stay as relevant and engaging for its young people.

How Scouting grew

Scouts has never stood still. Find out more on how it started and continues to grow.

How Scouting grew >
Our Heritage Collections

The Heritage Collection helps create connections between the past and present.

Our collections >
Online exhibitions

Find out more about our fascinating history in our online exhibitions.

Take a look at our online exhibitions >
Gilwell Park

Gilwell Park is the spiritual home of Scouts, attracting visitors from around the world.

Discover Gilwell Park >
Donate an item to the Collection

We welcome donations of photographs, items and records.

Find out how to donate >
Notable former Scouts

A list of notable people, who at some time have been Scouts.

Discover some former Scouts >