The UK Scout Association has announced that the 44th World Scout Conference will take place at Olympia in November 2027. The conference is making its return to London, and to the venue where the very first World Scout Conference was held over a century ago. Delegates and observers from 176 National Scout Organisations are expected to attend from around the globe.
Opening in March 2026, Olympia’s new International Convention Centre (ICC), operated and managed by Olympia Events and Legends Global, will host the 44th World Scout Conference from 29 November to 3 December 2027, with additional space provided by the venue’s National, Central and West Halls. The event is anticipated to welcome around 1,500 international attendees.
Held every three years, the Conference brings together Scouts from across the world to shape the standards, policies and shared goals of the Scout Movement. The 2027 event is especially significant, marking 120 years since Scouting was founded, and it’s return to Olympia - the site of the very first World Scout Conference and Jamboree in 1920.
“Olympia holds a special place in Scouting history, and this shared heritage makes it the perfect setting for such a significant moment. We look forward to celebrating our history together and creating new memories that inspire the future of Scouting.”
Carl Hankinson, UK Chief Volunteer and Chief Commissioner of The Scout Association
Olympia’s £1.3bn transformation includes the creation of additional, new state-of-the-art conference and event facilities in the heart of London, designed to meet the needs of modern international gatherings. Its scale, accessibility and historic ties to the movement were key factors in the decision to bring the Conference back to the venue.
“The World Scout Conference is a pivotal moment when our global movement comes together to reflect, make decisions and shape the future of Scouting. Hosting the 44th edition of the Conference in London is both meaningful and exciting. Olympia holds a unique place in our history as the site of the first World Scout Conference and the first World Scout Jamboree more than a century ago and returning here during such a milestone year for Scouting feels significant for our members.”
Raül Molina, Global Director, WOSM Events with World Scouting
As a truly global gathering of Scouting’s leadership, accessibility was an essential criteria for the venue. Olympia’s central location in one of London’s most vibrant cultural districts offers extensive opportunities for cultural exchange, shared experiences and learning beyond the Conference sessions. London’s diversity paired with Olympia’s world-class facilities creates the ideal setting for the global Scouting community to connect, collaborate and celebrate its shared spirit of friendship.
“Hosting the 44th World Scout Conference is a hugely meaningful moment for Olympia. Scouting is closely linked to our venue’s history and welcoming this event back is a proud reminder of the global connections and lasting impact created here. Our £1.3bn redevelopment is transforming Olympia into a world class destination for major international conferences and events. We are honoured that the World Scout Conference will be part of this next chapter, reinforcing our role as a global meeting place and our continued influence on the world stage.”
Andy O’Sullivan, CEO of Olympia Events
“We're delighted to welcome the World Scout Conference home to London. Our capital celebrates diversity, discovery and collaboration, values that sit at the very heart of the Scout Movement. It feels fitting that Scout leaders from around the world will gather in London to shape the future of a movement that continues to inspire young people everywhere. We look forward to showcasing a new chapter for Olympia, and for London as a world-leading destination for meaningful global connections.”
Suzanne Singleton, Head of Associations at the London Convention Bureau
The Olympia Events team will join London & Partners at IBTM World in Barcelona on 18 - 20 November. Visit Stand G30 to discover how Olympia is evolving into London’s newest home for major international events, supported by the launch of its world-class ICC and private members club in 2026.