Navigation and map reading course

Learn to map read with GO London
This course will introduce you to the basic navigation skills for you to head into the British countryside with confidence.

Cost : £45pp 1:6 instructor ratio

We will meet up at Tring Station the course takes place in the Chiltern Hills learning the basics of map reading.

There is a train at 08:55 from Euston which arrives in Tring for 09:29.

The return train will be at 17:15

We will cover the following skills:-

Understand the nature of a map as a two-dimensional plan.

Understand how to use map symbols and scales, on a variety of maps.

Orientate the map with and without a compass.

Use the orientated map to identify land features and indicate the direction of travel.

Choose simple navigation strategies and routes.

Use linear features (e.g. paths and tracks) as handrails in simple navigation exercises.

Estimate distance on both map and ground.

Using a basic understanding of contours, match major landforms like hills and valleys to their map representation.

Plan a safe, suitable walk.

Relocate using simple techniques on paths and other handrails.

If you wish to do some pre-study you can find some useful information by following the link:-

https://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/resources/map-reading/

Recommended books:-

https://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/docs/leaflets/map-reading.pdf Free PDF worth bringing along.

The ultimate navigation manual by Lyle Brotherton ISBN 978-0-00-742460-3

Navigation for walkers ISBN 9781871890549

Navigation in the mountains ISBN 978-0-9541511-5-7

Maps are provided but we recommend you bring your own you will need:-

OS Explorer Map 1:25 000 Chiltern Hills North sheet 181

You will also need to bring:-

base plate compass, recommended makes Silva, Recta, Suunto,

http://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/silva-ranger-compass-p194176 (recommended)

Cheap options are available

http://www.sportsdirect.com/karrimor-compass-785005?colcode=78500590

if you go for this option please make sure that the needle remains stable in the compass.

A pencil and paper

pack lunch and snacks

Water

Suitable warm and waterproof outdoor clothes

Walking boots or other suitable walking shoes