Map reading for dummies

How to read maps and orientate them, too

MAPSOLUTE BASICS*

•  The top of the map always points north.
• Public rights of way, such as footpaths, bridleways and by-ways, are indicated by different green lines  but you can walk any of them.
• The red-brown squiggly lines represent contours of the landscape. The closer together they are, the steeper the land.
• The numbers on the contour lines represent the height of the land. If the numbers are increasing, you’ll be going uphill. If they are decreasing, you’re heading downhill.

* Based on an Ordnance Survey Explorer 1:25,000)

GET ORIENTATED

• Line up the edge of the compass with your location and your intended destination.
• Rotate the bezel until the grid lines align up with the map
• Remove the compass from the map and travel in your required direction, keeping the needle on north and following the arrow on the front of the compass housing. Use a landmark as a reference point.