Unlock the freedom of the hills and master the essential skills of navigation with the Cicerone guide to Map and Compass. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your technique, this comprehensive, confidence-building handbook is your go-to resource for exploring the outdoors with independence and assurance.

Designed for both beginners and seasoned navigators, this practical guide takes you step-by-step through every aspect of map and compass work. Clear explanations and hands-on exercises build your confidence as you learn to navigate independently.

• The Cicerone Map and Compass guidebook teaches all the essentials, including map reading, compass use, bearings, timing, pacing, and route planning.
• Build your practical skills with step-by-step explanations of map symbols, grid references, contours, and compass bearings, all clearly illustrated in the guidebook.
• Advanced navigation techniques are covered in detail, with dedicated chapters on navigating in rain, mist, darkness, and challenging conditions, plus expert advice for what to do if you get lost.
• Learn how to adapt your navigation skills for adventures abroad, with international guidance also included in the Cicerone guide.
• Benefit from the guidebook's compact, thoughtfully designed format, perfect for your jacket pocket or rucksack.
• Discover how to use GPS and digital mapping tools alongside traditional methods, with clear advice and comparisons throughout the book.
• Written by expert instructor Pete Hawkins, every section of the guidebook delivers clear, jargon-free explanations designed to build your confidence outdoors.

As you progress, your confidence will grow, symbols and features that once seemed obscure will become familiar, and your ability to plan and execute your own routes will blossom. Map and Compass is an indispensable Cicerone guide for anyone seeking the freedom, safety, and satisfaction of exploring the outdoors, whatever the weather, wherever you roam.

Navigation - Quick Facts

Format: Handy paperback, larger than pocket-sized, designed for use at home and on the go
Coverage: Comprehensive navigation skills for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts of all levels
Content includes: Understanding maps, grid references, contours, compass use, bearings, route planning, timing and pacing, night and poor weather navigation, GPS and digital mapping, navigating abroad, and what to do when lost
Visual aids: Packed with illustrative map extracts, clear diagrams, graphics, and step-by-step practical exercises
Reference tools: Includes timing and pacing charts, map scales, and other handy navigation aids
Skill level: Ideal for total beginners and experienced navigators looking to sharpen their skills
Practical focus: Confidence-building exercises, jargon-free explanations, and real-world tips
Best use: Perfect for walking, hiking, hillwalking, and exploring landscapes in any conditions
Technology: Guidance on using GPS devices and integrating digital mapping tools
Author expertise: Written by Pete Hawkins, expert navigation coach and instructor
Purpose: Empower readers to explore independently, safely, and with confidence
 

Author Highlight

"There are many reasons why good map and compass skills are important. Whether you spend your days on the high moors and mountains or on the lowland fields of Britain, there will be frequent occasions when these skills can make your day’s walk far easier. By following your map accurately throughout the day, you can avoid getting lost – even if the weather turns bad and the mist or darkness rolls in. If you know where you are, you can stay one step ahead of trouble. A thorough knowledge of map and compass skills also gives you the freedom of the hills and the confidence to explore the UK‘s large areas of access land.” 

- Pete Hawkins, author of Map and Compass

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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