23rd Poplar Scouts Group

Who we are

Located in Bow (E3), the 23rd Poplar Scout Group is the oldest Scout group in Tower Hamlets, founded in 1915 in Old Ford. For over a century, we've brought adventure, outdoor fun, life-long friendships, and vital life skills to our community 

Meeting every Friday during term-time at Old Ford Primary School, we lead five age-based sections for local youth aged 4 to 18:

• Squirrels (4–6 yrs) – playful discovery and first friendships
• Beavers (6–8 yrs) – games, crafts, and early camping
• Cubs (8–10½ yrs) – outdoor skills, teamwork, and badge challenges
• Scouts (10½–14 yrs) – adventure, independence, and community spirit
• Explorers (14–18 yrs) – leadership, service, and real-life challenges 

We meet weekly on Fridays:

• Beavers: 6–7 pm

• Cubs: 6:30–8 pm

• Scouts: 6:45–8:15 pm

• Explorers: 7:15pm - 8:45pm

Our culture and values

Our programme is built around learning by doing — from campfire skills to expeditions abroad. Every term includes an overnight or weekend camp, and we’ve travelled to iconic locations like Brownsea Island (2015), Switzerland (2017), Iceland (planned 2020), and Norway (2023).

We are entirely powered by dedicated volunteers, and warmly welcome leaders and helpers of all ages and backgrounds. English Heritage values like confidence, community, and inclusivity guide everything we do — and we promise full support and training for volunteers.

Our values are rooted in Scouting’s “Skills for Life” mission, encouraging young people to Do More, Share More, Be More.