Master the art of navigation and unlock new adventures with Navigation by Pete Hawkins, the definitive Cicerone guide to using a map and compass with confidence. Whether you’re a complete beginner keen to take your first steps off the beaten track, or an experienced walker looking to hone your skills for challenging conditions, this compact, practical handbook provides everything you need to navigate safely and independently, on any walk, in any weather.

Navigation is packed with clear explanations, step-by-step guidance, and hands-on exercises designed to build your confidence on the hill and beyond. The book guides you through every element of map and compass navigation, from understanding scales, grids, symbols, and contours, to taking bearings, planning routes, and navigating in the mountains, at night, or in poor weather. You’ll find practical advice on choosing and using a compass, reading map features in detail, and integrating technology such as GPS to complement your traditional skills.

• Learn the essentials: chapters span scales and grids, map symbols and contours, map reading, compass use, bearings, route planning, and advanced techniques for night and bad weather navigation.
• Packed with visual aids: illustrative map extracts, diagrams, and graphics help demystify navigation, while practical exercises encourage you to put theory into practice and develop your skills.
• Embrace technology: advice on using GPS devices and computer mapping is included, offering a balanced view of how digital tools can enhance (but never replace!) your understanding of map and compass.
• Thoughtfully designed: the compact format slips easily into a jacket pocket or rucksack, making it the perfect companion on any walk.
• Comprehensive reference: includes a romer, map scales, timing and pacing charts for quick access in the field, with all topics clearly referenced and easy to find.
• Written by an expert: Pete Hawkins draws on a wealth of experience teaching navigation, delivering clear, jargon-free explanations that make even advanced techniques accessible.

As you progress, your confidence will grow—symbols and features that once seemed obscure become familiar, and your ability to plan and execute your own routes will blossom. This comprehensive guide is an indispensable companion for anyone seeking the freedom, safety, and satisfaction of exploring the outdoors.

Master the skills that keep you safe, enrich your adventures, and open up new horizons with this essential Cicerone guide.

Navigation - Quick Facts

Format: Compact paperback, pocket-sized for easy reference
Coverage: Essential navigation techniques for walkers of all abilities
Content includes: Map scales and grids, map symbols and contours, map reading, compass use, bearings, route planning, navigation in hills and mountains, night and bad weather navigation, GPS and digital mapping
Visual aids: Illustrative map extracts, diagrams, graphics, and practical exercises
Reference tools: Romer, map scales, timing and pacing charts
Skill level: Suitable for complete beginners and those refreshing or advancing their navigation skills
Practical focus: Hands-on exercises, clear explanations, step-by-step guidance
Best use: Walking, hiking, hillwalking, and outdoor adventures in any location or conditions
Technology: Advice on using GPS devices and integrating digital tools
Author expertise: Written by an experienced navigation instructor
Purpose: Build confidence, independence, and safety on every walk  
 

Author Highlight

"I started using the humble map and compass in earnest over 35 years ago, and for all those years I have been their greatest advocate. Over the three and a half decades both have given me immense pleasure, and hundreds of lucky souls have learnt that pleasure from me too! Looking back over my 35 years of teaching navigation, I find myself thinking about what has and hasn’t changed. The ability to use a map and compass is as important now as it ever was.” 

- Pete Hawkins, author of Navigation

Preface by Alan Hinkes OBE
Foreword

Chapter 1    Why use a map and compass?
Chapter 2    Map essentials – scales and grids
Chapter 3    Map symbols and contours
Chapter 4    Walking with the map
Chapter 5    Introducing the compass
Chapter 6    Choosing your compass
Chapter 7    Taking a bearing from the map
Chapter 8    Taking a bearing from the ground
Chapter 9    Walking with map and compass
Chapter 10    Route planning
Chapter 11    Night and bad weather navigation
Chapter 12    Technology – GPS and computer mapping
Chapter 13    Where now?

Appendix A    Answers to questions
Appendix B    Useful contacts and addresses
Appendix C    Further reading
Appendix D    Navigational aid

January 2021

Figure 2.17 correction

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