Map Reading

Beginner’s guides

A Beginner’s Guide to OS Map Symbols

By OS Team

Published on June 28, 2022

2 min read

Map Symbols on OS Explorer Maps

Have you ever studied a map and tried to work out what an OS map symbol meant? Debated with friends and family over what it could represent? We’ve all been there!

This simple guide explains every symbol on an OS Explorer map (1: 25 000 scale), our most popular choice for walking and cycling. Discover the meaning of different symbols, and learn how they can help you find points of interest, access land, and public rights of way, ensuring you make the most of your time outside.

Test Your Knowledge in Our Advanced Map Reading Quiz

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What are Map Symbols?

Map symbols do more than help you navigate. They help you find new and exciting places like castles, nature reserves and even pubs. Learning about symbols teaches you about the history of the area and allows you to plot the best routes with ease. And last but not least, OS map symbols show you where you can and can’t go, protecting both ourselves and nature. These symbols can be seen on OS Explorer maps, and in our very own OS Maps app, and their meaning can be found in map legend.

Map symbols on OS Explorer mapping

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Public Rights of Way Symbols

Map symbols for public rights of way

Public Access Symbols

Map symbols for public access

Access Land (England and Wales)

Map symbols for access land (England and Wales)

Access Land (Scotland)

Map symbols for access land (Scotland)

Roads

Map symbols for roads

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Custom Made Maps

Railways

Map symbols for railways

General Features

Map symbols for general features

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Abbreviations

Map symbols for abbreviations

Full List of OS Abbreviations

Archaeological and Historical Information

Map symbols for archaeological and historical information

Boundaries

Map symbols for boundaries

Heights and Natural Features

Map symbols for heights and natural features

Vegetation

Map symbols for vegetation

Tourist and Leisure Symbols

Map symbols for tourist and leisure information

Unique Map Symbols

Map symbols for unique features

Access Land (Scotland Only)

Map symbols for access land in Scotland

Now you know what every symbol on an OS Explorer map means you can make the most of your next adventure, while impressing your family and friends! Please note, OS Landranger 1: 50 000 maps include some different symbols.

Take a look at our free Map Reading Guides to learn more about map reading:

Fee Map Reading Guide

EXPLORE THE

OS Shop

We are with you every step of the way. Shop our trusted walking and hiking maps and guidebooks so you can explore the outdoors with confidence.

Go to the shop

Go to the shop

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By OS Team