Our Story

Scouting in Portmarnock began in 1976, but it wasn’t until the current Den was built that scouts had a dedicated space. They started in a shipping container, moved to a portacabin, then a garden shed, and finally an old prefab from St. Helen’s School.

In 2006, the plan to build a new Den took shape through Fingal County Council’s Local Area Plan. Sherman Homes were initially to build the Den but contributed funds instead due to site limitations. These funds, held in trust by Fingal County Council, helped secure our current site, with a 77-year lease.

In 2015, Portmarnock Guide and Scout Den Trust Company Ltd. was set up to own the building. The bank loan is now paid, and the Den Trust owns the Den, which the Scouts and Guides share.

Our Den, nestled at the edge of Blackwood forest in Portmarnock Sports and Leisure Centre grounds, spans 6,000 square feet and includes two large halls, a fully equipped kitchen, offices, accessible facilities with showers, and a secure storeroom. Thanks to local businesses, community funding and a bank loan, this facility now serves over 140 Scouts and the Guides, and is available for community use.

This Den is a lasting resource for Portmarnock, thanks to years of dedication from local volunteers.