Youlbury Scout Activity Centre

“Lost in the woods?” a voice chuckled. “Just follow the sound of excited chatter and the smell of campfire smoke, and you’ll find Youlbury Scout Activity Centre.” Youlbury Scout Activity Centre isn’t just any campsite. It’s the oldest permanent Scout campsite in the world. Established in 1913, it predates even the famed Gilwell Park. Originally, a kind landowner, Sir Arthur Evans, allowed a local Scout patrol to camp on his Boars Hill property near Oxford. He even built them a cabin. This simple act of generosity sparked a century of scouting adventures. Youlbury has grown significantly since its humble beginnings. It now boasts a variety of campsites, cozy indoor lodges like Bear’s Den and the Centenary Lodge, and even tented villages for a touch of glamping. The activities here are as diverse as the Scouts who visit. From the classic skills of pioneering and orienteering to the thrill of climbing, abseiling, and the 3G swing, there’s something for everyone. Youlbury Scout Activity Centre has played a crucial role in Scouting history. During World War II, when Gilwell Park was commandeered by the army, Youlbury became the headquarters of the Scout Movement. Even Robert Baden-Powell himself had envisioned Youlbury as a training center. This rich history is intertwined with the very trees and trails surrounding you. So next time you’re near Oxford, and you hear the distant echo of laughter and the crackle of a campfire, follow your senses. You’ll find yourself at Youlbury Scout Activity Centre, where the spirit of Scouting has thrived for over a century. It’s a place where memories are made, skills are honed, and friendships are forged, all under the watchful eye of the ancient woodland.