This comprehensive guidebook is perfect for beginners who want to learn how to read a map and compass for the first time, as well as for advanced map readers looking to improve their skills. Packed full of first-hand experience and practical tips to offer all readers the inspiration and information they need to get ‘out there’ and explore the landscapes for themselves.

Chapters cover understanding a map, grid references, contours, planning your walks, taking bearings, walking with a compass, timing and pacing, navigating in rain, mist and darkness, what to do when you get lost and navigating abroad.

• Plenty of illustrative map extracts, graphics and diagrams
• Advanced techniques for night and poor visibility navigation
• Advice on GPS and digital mapping technologies
• Advice on what to do when you get lost!

Preface to the second edition     

Chapter 1: Why Learn to Navigate?      
Chapter 2: Introducing the Map      
Chapter 3: Map Detail      
Chapter 4: Grid Lines and References      
Chapter 5: Understanding Contours      
Chapter 6: Planning Your Walks      
Chapter 7: Introducing the Compass      
Chapter 8: What do we Mean by a Bearing?      
Chapter 9: Walking with Your Compass      
Chapter 10: Timing, Pacing and Other Techniques      
Chapter 11: On Getting Lost!      
Chapter 12: Rain, Mist and Darkness      
Chapter 13: Navigating Abroad      
Chapter 14: GPSs and Other Technology      
Chapter 15: Further Practice     

Appendix A: Useful Addresses      

Index

Seasons

Navigation skills will help with adventures all year round, especially with night navigation, navigating in winter conditions or navigating in poor visibility

Centres

Chapters cover understanding a map, features, grid refs, contours; planning walks carefully; taking bearings, walking with a compass; timing, pacing and other techniques; what to do when you get lost and in poor visibility or darkness; navigating abroad and GPS and other digital technology.

Difficulty

Covers everything from how to read a map and understanding grid references to advanced techniques for navigating in bad visibility on tricky terrain

Must See

Learn how to use a map and compass to navigate more confidently; training on how to read a map and how to use a compass as well as advice on digital mapping

February 2025

Route card

September 2020

Figure 10.6: distance/pace chart for deep heather and rough grassland

August 2013

Appendix A

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