A Beginner’s Guide to Map and Compass Skills in Northumberland
Whether you’re hiking the Cheviots, walking the Northumberland Coast Path, or venturing into the national park, knowing how to use a map and compass is an essential skill for safe and enjoyable navigation. While GPS devices are useful, map reading and compass work remain the most reliable way to navigate in the hills—especially when technology fails or batteries run low.
In this guide, we’ll cover the key outdoor navigation skills you need to explore with confidence, from understanding map symbols to taking compass bearings. If you want hands-on training, our Map and Compass Training Course in Northumberland will take your skills to the next level.
Why Learn Map and Compass Skills?
Relying on smartphones or GPS watches alone can be risky. A paper map and compass never lose signal or run out of battery, making them vital tools for any outdoor enthusiast. Learning to use them effectively will:
- Give you confidence to navigate safely in any terrain.
- Help you stay on track even in poor visibility.
- Make your walks more enjoyable by understanding the landscape around you.
- Provide a valuable backup in case of emergency.
1. Understanding Your OS Map
The first step in learning to read a map is understanding its key features. The most widely used maps in the UK are Ordnance Survey (OS) Maps, which provide a detailed view of the landscape.
Key Elements of an OS Map:
✅ Grid References – Every point on the map can be pinpointed using a grid reference, helping you to locate exact positions.
✅ Map Symbols & Legends – OS maps use a variety of symbols to represent footpaths, roads, water sources, and landmarks. The key (legend) explains what they mean.
✅ Contours & Elevation – Contour lines show the shape and height of the land. Closer lines indicate steeper slopes, while wider gaps suggest flatter terrain.
💡 Pro Tip: Before heading out, spend time studying your map and planning your route. Try to visualise the landscape based on contour lines and key features.
2. Using a Compass for Navigation
A compass helps you stay on course when navigating in open country or when visibility is poor. The most important skill is learning how to take a bearing.
How to Take a Compass Bearing:
1️⃣ Place your compass on the map with the edge along your intended route.
2️⃣ Rotate the housing so that the orienting lines match the north-south grid lines on the map.
3️⃣ Hold the compass flat and turn yourself until the magnetic needle aligns with the orienting arrow.
4️⃣ Your direction of travel arrow now points the way you need to go!
💡 Common Mistake: Always ensure your compass is away from metal objects (like zips, phones, or GPS devices) to avoid interference.
3. Estimating Distance and Timing Your Walk
A key navigation skill is knowing how far you’ve travelled. This can be estimated using two main techniques:
📏 Pacing – Counting the number of steps you take over a known distance (usually 100m) to estimate distances in the field.
⌚ Timing – Using Naismith’s Rule to estimate how long a journey will take based on distance and elevation.
These techniques help ensure you stay on track and adjust your route if needed.
4. Practising Your Navigation Skills in Northumberland
The best way to improve your map and compass skills is through hands-on experience. Northumberland provides the perfect landscape to practise, from rolling hills to rugged coastlines.
If you’re serious about learning how to navigate confidently, why not join our Map and Compass Training Course in Northumberland?
What Our Course Covers:
✅ Practical map reading and compass use in real outdoor conditions.
✅ How to find your location using grid references and map symbols.
✅ Taking and following compass bearings accurately.
✅ Understanding contours and how terrain affects navigation.
✅ Pacing and timing to measure distance effectively.
We provide maps and compasses for the session, so all you need to bring is a sense of adventure!
📍 Join our next training course and gain the skills to explore Northumberland with confidence.
🔗 Book your Map and Compass Training Course in Northumberland today!
Final Thoughts
Mastering map and compass navigation is an essential skill for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you're walking in the hills, planning a long-distance trek, or simply exploring your local countryside, these skills will help you navigate safely and independently.
Want to learn map reading and compass skills in Northumberland with expert guidance? Join our practical one-day training course and take your navigation skills to the next level!