An opportunity for the public to visit the Heritage Centre on this otherwise private site and gain an insight into the origins and activities of the Scout movement in Hampshire (and beyond) through the years.

The Hampshire Scout Heritage Team are tasked with preserving the history of Scouting as it relates to the county of Hampshire (including Bournemouth and Christchurch prior to 1974). In addition to running the Heritage Centre at Ferny Crofts in the New Forest, we also offer an outreach service to Sections/Groups/Districts of displays or historic programme evenings and at larger events a “Grandad’s Camp” to demonstrate older camping styles. Visit us to view our large collection of artefacts, uniforms, badges, campfire blankets and so much more. It’s a platform for passing on the achievements that have made Scouting such a wonderful and exciting experience.

Timings & Tours 

Sunday 14 September: 10am - 4pm

Wednesday 17 September: 10am - 4pm

Saturday 20 September: 10am - 4pm

Location & directions 

Directions: Entrance off Yew Tree Heath Road (OS Grid Reference SU36502 06197) Follow gravel track to car park on left after entrance gate

Booking information 

Pre-booking requirement: Pre-booking required

Booking conditions: Pre-booking required in order to comply with child safeguarding requirements in respect of other users of the site

Booking opens: 08 Aug 2025 12:00 AM 

Booking closes: 10 Sep 2025 12:00 AM 

Max no of people per tour: 10

Est. tour duration: 1 hour

Accessibility Details

Access from the car park to the centre is via an unmade (gravel) pathway

Additional information

Access to other areas on site may be possible dependent upon the level of use