Our Introduction to Navigation Days are a great introduction to map reading and the navigation skills you need to safely enjoy a great walk in the countryside without reliance on a guide book or phone app.

This one day course is for those of you wanting to gain more confidence to explore our wonderful network of public rights of way. You might be looking at getting started in the outdoors, or just wanting to refresh and improve on some rusty skills you learnt a while ago. You will be amazed how much information there is on an Ordnance Survey map and our Navigation day will help you make sense of it all! A great introduction to the navigation skills you need to get out and about.

“Thoroughly enjoyed today. I have just been looking at a recent walk on the OS map, seeing the terrain and where other paths go. Interestingly, I worked out where I went wrong and got lost as well!”

— C A (Berkshire)

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Outline of the Day

Our Navigation days usually take place in the south Chilterns near Henley-on-Thames or Goring.

We meet in the morning and spend some time over a coffee getting to know our maps.

We then set off on a walk to steadily develop and practice our skills. You will be given plenty of guidance and tips as we go.

We will be walking along tracks and paths and will usually cover about 5 miles, taking frequent stops along the way to read the map, practice our skills and discuss our navigation options. The day will finish at about 4 pm.

This is a friendly and relaxed day and participants’ input and questions throughout the day are encouraged and welcome.

What will be Covered

Practical use of Ordnance Survey 1:25,000 maps
Get to know the map scales, legend and symbols and interpret map detail, relief and contour lines
Understanding grid references
Introduction to using a magnetic compass
Orientating the map to the ground
Using the orientated map to identify land features, location and indicate direction of travel
Estimating distance and how long a walk will take using the map
Choosing simple navigation strategies and routes
Planning a safe, suitable walk
Introduction to the Countryside Code, access rights and responsibilities

What do I Need

No previous map and compass experience is required. Training will be given on the day.

If you already have a little knowledge, we can help you develop it.

We will provide Map and Compass for use on the day. You are welcome to bring your own if you have them, but no need to buy specially for the course as advice on which map and compass is best for your needs will also be provided.

Although we start the day indoor, for much of the day we will be outside. You need to bring a packed lunch, drink and snacks for the day. An information and advice sheet about the day, including what to wear and what to bring with you is provided on booking.

Course Dates and Booking

Our programmed Navigation Essentials days usually take place around Goring or Henley. For further information, course dates and booking, see here >>>>.

Or get in touch to book your own Navigation Day on a day to suit you.

Group size and Age limits

Maximum group size 6 - to ensure that you get the most out of the day
Minimum age 14 - U18s must accompanied by parent/guardian who shall be responsible for them at all times during the activity

Navigation Day Fee

£65 per person

What's included

Tea/coffee when we meet in the morning
Full day's navigation, map and compass skills training
Expert tuition and guidance
Use of OS map and compass for the day

Any questions?

We would be delighted to answer any queries you may have to help you choose your Navigation experience - simply get in touch.

“Thanks for a great day on Sunday, I thoroughly enjoyed it! I have gone out and bought myself an OS of my local area and am planning a walk with my husband and dog for the weekend! Thank you also for all the expert knowledge you shared - I found the day very informative and it’s certainly given me more confidence to read maps and explore!”

— A S (Buckinghamshire)