Explorer Scouts

Explorers are a go-getting group of young people aged 14 to 18. Together, they make up the fifth section of the Scouts.

Explorer Scouts (14-17)

Week in and week out, they gather in groups called Units to try new things, make new friends and conquer the small task of changing the world.

Being an Explorer is all about discovering the world on your own terms and making the most of what you have, wherever and whoever you are.

They stand up for what they believe and make a difference on their own doorstops, confident in the knowledge that their daily actions add up.

Most importantly, they say yes more often than they say no – whether they’re signing up for their first major hike across Europe, or writing their first line of code, or accepting the last of the toasted marshmallows.
Sound like fun? That’s because it is. All that’s missing is you.

Interested in joining? Get in touch with your local leader using our finder tool. They’ll tell you more about where and when the group meets.

Not sure if you have time to fit Explorers into your week? Being a person is busy work, and being a teenage person is even busier. We get it. That’s why Explorer Units are generally more flexible than the other Scout sections, especially when important landmarks like exams roll around. Although most groups meet weekly, this isn’t always the case – some meet less frequently, or run their activities on the weekend so that you can keep your weeknights free for other things.

Explorers is for everyone. If you have any questions about accessibility, have a chat with your local leader. By being upfront about additional needs from the start, we can work together to make sure everyone can join in the fun on their own terms.

HM King Charles III has been confirmed as our new Patron, a great honour for UK Scouts.

The King continues a long tradition of the monarch giving their Patronage, dating back to 1912. This was when Scouts was granted its Royal Charter and HM George V became our first Patron.

Find out more
King Charles III

Our Patron, HM King Charles III