Gilwell Oak

The Gilwell Oak is an English oak standing at the edge of the training ground at Gilwell Park with a massive, spreading form and strong branches. Wood from fallen branches was traditionally carved into badges for Scout leaders who completed their training courses.

The oak became central to Gilwell Park after the Scout Association acquired the grounds in 1919 through a generous donation. It thus represents the founding of the movement's most important training center and is tied to the earliest days of organized Scout instruction.

Scouts view this oak as a symbol of their movement, since Baden-Powell used its strength and growth as an example for how Scouting develops. Visitors see in it a living part of their shared history, connecting generations of leaders.

The tree is located in a publicly accessible park and is easy to spot because of its size and position at the edge of the grounds. Visitors should take time to view the tree's structure and spread from different angles, especially from the nearby training area.

In 2017, this tree was named Tree of the Year in England and placed fifth in a Europe-wide competition. The recognition showed how significant this single tree became to people far beyond the Scout movement itself.