Beginner’s Map Reading & Navigation Course in the Lake District

A one day map reading course for beginners based in the Lake District.

If you have never looked at a map or would be unsure about planning and following a route along paths and tracks then this is the course for you.

This course starts from Bowness-on-Windermere. Once out of town we are quickly onto quiet paths and tracks with great views across to the central fells.

Our courses have no more than six participants so you will not be overlooked in a large group.

You will be amazed how much detail there is on an Ordnance Survey map and we will teach you how to make the most of it all. It’s a friendly, practical course and you will come away inspired and with the confidence to get out walking much, much more.

What You’ll Learn on our Beginner’s Navigation Course

By the end of the day, you’ll feel more confident finding your way using a map and simple navigation skills. We’ll cover:

• Map basics:
  How to understand map symbols, colours, and scale.

• Setting up your map:
  How to turn (orientate) your map so it matches the land around you.

• Reading the landscape:
  How to use your map to spot hills, paths, streams, and other features, and use them to choose the right direction to walk.

• Easy navigation techniques:
  Simple strategies to help you stay on track and plan straightforward routes.

• Measuring distance:
  How to estimate how far you need to walk on the map and what that distance looks like on the ground.

• Understanding contours:
  How to read contour lines so you can picture the shape and steepness of the terrain.

• Grid references:
  How to find a 6-figure grid reference for where you are, and how to locate one on the map.

• Planning a safe walk:
  How to choose a suitable route based on weather, terrain, and access rights.

• Finding your position:
  Simple ways to relocate if you’re unsure where you are.

• Outdoor responsibility:
  How to follow the Countryside Code and look after the places you visit.

• What to do in an emergency:
  How to call Mountain Rescue if help is needed.

What to expect on the day

We’ll be outdoors for the entire course. The pace will be slow, with plenty of breaks, and the amount of uphill walking is minimal. You just need to be comfortable being outside and on your feet for most of the day.

Course Dates

• 3rd April 2027
• 1st May 2027
• 5th June 2027
• 10th July 2027
• 7th August 2027
• 4th September 2027
• 2nd October 2027