Our Map Navigation Course


Navigation & Map Reading Courses


Whether you’re looking to improve your map reading skills or gain essential mountain navigation techniques, we offer two courses:

  • One-Day Map Reading and Compass Course – Perfect for beginners, this course teaches fundamental map and compass skills in the stunning Yorkshire Dales.
  • Two-Day Mountain Skills and Navigation Course – A more in-depth course held in the Lake District, covering advanced navigation, route planning, safety, and essential mountain skills.


One-Day Map Reading and Compass Course

Do you want to learn how to navigate using a compass? Learn basic map reading and compass skills on our one-day course.

The course teaches you how to:

  • Navigate using linear features such as walls and rivers
  • Navigate using contours
  • Use an OS map
  • Understand map symbols
  • Use different types of maps
  • Understand and use grid references
  • Use navigation strategies, including what to do if you’re lost and how to estimate distances
  • Use a compass.

The course takes place in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales area.


Two-Day Mountain Skills and Navigation Course


Our two-day mountain skills and navigation course is a practical course which teaches you essential navigation skills.

It covers all of the basics that are included on the one-day map reading and compass course, but also includes further vital mountaineering skills in planning, preparing and keeping yourself safe.

The course teaches you how to:

  • Navigate using linear features such as walls and rivers
  • Navigate using contours
  • Use an OS map
  • Understand map symbols
  • Use types of maps
  • Understand and use grid references
  • Use navigation strategies, including what to do if you’re lost and how to estimate distances
  • Use a compass
  • Identify landmarks and landforms
  • Plan your pace and timing
  • Plan and prepare for routes
  • Interpret contours
  • Understand emergency procedures and plan escape routes
  • Understand mountain weather forecasts
  • Deal with steep inclines
  • Use essential gear
  • Respond in an emergency situation.

The skills you develop will help you tackle any adventure in unfamiliar territory with confidence.

This course takes place in the Lake District.



How to Book One of Our Navigation Courses


Visit our events page to find out when our next navigation courses are taking place, pricing and how to book.


Explore Our Upcoming Events

Reviews from Previous Navigation Course Attendees

“Had a fabulous time in the Yorkshire Dales with Mark, thanks so much for helping me to understand the map and compass for navigation. I feel confident enough now to venture out on my own.”
Sarah Hardcastle, one-day map reading and compass course
“Had a fantastic time on Mark’s navigational course. Mark was really down to earth which helped me get through it. As a result I’m pretty confident leading my own friends around the Dales now. Happy!!”
Ian Summer, one-day map reading and compass course