Beginner's guides

A beginners guide to finding grid references

Improve your map reading skills by learning how to read a 4-figure, 6-figure or 8-figure national grid reference with our quick and easy guide. Perfect for beginner's, it includes a short 'how to' video.

A beginners guide to understanding map contour lines

Learn the use and meaning of contour lines on a map and understand how to use them to when you're out and about or planning routes. Understanding contours will improve your map reading skills.

Beginners guide to using a compass

Even with a GPS in your phone, it's important to know how to use a compass just in case technology fails or visibility is poor. Here's a step-by-step beginner's guide to using a compass, so you can learn the basics of how to navigate with a map.

A beginners guide to understanding map scales

Have you ever got confused about what a map scale is, or wondered what is the difference between our OS Landranger and OS Explorer maps? This beginner's guide to understanding map scales will help! Includes a short video for easier learning.

A beginners guide to measuring distance on a map

Measuring distance is a key tool in map reading and is especially useful for hikers and cyclists who want to measure how far they have travelled or how far they wish to go. Learn how to easily measure distance on a map with our quick and simple guide.

A beginners guide to the compass

Improve your map reading skills with this beginner's guide to the compass. We take a look at the different types of compass, such as a baseplate compass, and explain how to orientate a map with one.

A beginner's guide to running

Whether it's around the block, to the shop, or a full scale marathon, there is no doubt that running is good for you. This beginner's guide to running will help you get started.

A beginner's guide to Trail Running

Looking to mix up your time outside? Enjoy one of the many benefits of trail running and discover new paths near you. Our beginner's guide to trail running will help get you started.

A blonde guide to hammock camping

Blonde Two, Fi Darby, answers your questions on the ins and outs of hammock camping.

A beginner's guide to ultra-running

If standard marathons are no longing challenging enough for you, and you're looking for your next big event - why not try ultra-running? Ultra-running is not for the faint hearted, but this beginner's guide from experience runners can help to get you started.