Learn to Navigate
Learning to navigate using a map and compass allows you to not only keep safe and avoid getting lost it also enables you to explore new areas independently. No longer will you need to keep to marked paths, use guidebooks to find new areas to explore or spend the day trying to avoid the crowds. Once you can navigate you will be able to find interesting things on the map and create your own route to visit them. You'll be able to get away from the crowds and be confident that you will be able to explore and make it home at the end of the day.
Come and learn everything from the basics through to more advanced skills. I used my extensive experience to alter my approach to best meet your individual learning needs and goals. I will build up skills gradually and give you plenty of opportunity to practice and ask the questions you need to know the answers to.
Learn skills such as orientating the map, using the key to work out what the symbols and lines on the map actually mean and how you might expect that to look in the real world.
Interpretation of contour lines, navigation using features on the ground, basic compass skills, taking bearings and using these to maximum effect. What skills you might use in which situations and how to measure distance and estimate how long it will take you walk from one place to another.
Leave having learnt skills you will be able to put into practice and feeling confident that you will know how to continue to progress, allowing you to gain experience and keep improving your navigation.
Who is this suitable for? No previous experience of map reading or navigation is required although for those that have some experience and would like to improve or gain confidence this would also benefit you. Each person will be given individual feedback and taught at their own pace. As we will be focusing on navigation we will not be covering long distances and will be fairly slow moving. We will be on uneven ground so a reasonable level of fitness is required but know it is probably less than you expect!
One day Introduction to Basic Navigation
Join me for a highly practical and enjoyable day designed for complete beginners or those with a little prior knowledge who want to build confidence in navigation skills. You'll learn in a small group (maximum of four participants) with an experienced Mountain Leader, ensuring plenty of personal attention and a relaxed, supportive learning environment. By the end of the day, you'll have developed the essential map and compass skills needed to navigate safely and confidently - so you can enjoy your adventures knowing you can always find your way home. The course also includes top tips on equipment, staying safe and what to do in an emergency. The content will be tailored to the group's experience and individual goals. If there's a specific skill or topic you'd like to focus on, please mention it when booking. Your skills will be built gradually throughout the day, with lots of opportunity to practice and ask questions. Maps and compasses will be provided but you're welcome to bring your own if you'd prefer.
Price £85 per person
Times 10am - 4pm
Dates* Dates on request
Two day Navigation Skills Course
This two day navigation course will give you a comprehensive look at a range of navigation skills, taking you from basic skills and building this up gradually towards more advanced skills. The course is suitable for complete beginners, those with previous experience or those who have previously attended my one-day Introduction to Navigation course. You’ll learn in small groups (maximum of four participants) and individual attention will be given to each learner to ensure you learn at your own pace and build on any previous skills. Day 1 will cover basic navigation and ensure the fundamental map and compass skills are well understood and can be applied practically. Day 2 will cover more advanced skills in more complicated terrain, including using bearings, how to relocate when lost and micro-navigation. The course will also include discussions and examples of equipment you might want to carry, weather forecasts, use of technology, emergency procedures and staying safe in remote areas. The content will be tailored to the group’s experience and individual goals. If there’s a specific skill or topic you’d like to focus on, please mention it when booking. Your skills will be built gradually, with lots of opportunity to practice, ask questions and build confidence. Map and compass will be provided but you’re welcome to bring your own if you’d prefer. You will leave the course with lots of knowledge and understanding as well as a variety of skills which you will be able to apply on future adventures!
Price £150 per person
Times 10am - 4pm daily
Dates* Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd February, Tuesday 7th & Wednesday 8th April, Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th June 2026
