Map Reading

The Gaelic origins of place names in Britain

If you have ever wondered how many of the places in Scotland got their names, this extensive list of terms, along with pronunciation, is here to help.

Reality versus Instagram

Been inspired to visit somewhere by a snap on Instagram lately? Well, be warned, you may not know the full picture or what's involved to get there safely. Scott Mcalister took a bunch of social media bods out to experience the real deal themselves.

Map reading skills for children

Instil a love of the outdoors that will last a lifetime.

Map reading skills - advanced guides

Learn some of the more advanced map reading skills for more extreme adventures or just to challenge yourself.

Map reading skills - beginner's guides

Map reading made easy! For beginners to advanced, adults or teenagers, find all you need to make map reading easy

National Map Reading Week

National Map Reading Week aims to inspire people of all ages and interests to GetOutside, explore, find adventure and make memories. The simple art of reading a map can open up the landscape, take us off well worn paths and keep us safe – and we’re here to help you learn how!

Map reading week 2019 quiz

Give your kids more time

Our lifestyle today means that for the first time ever, our children could have a lower life expectancy than us. Their physical and mental wellbeing is directly related to the amount of time they spend outside.

A Tale of three Norths

When you first start to map read or work with a compass, the one element that always causes most confusion is that of North! We should all know that the top of the map is North - but which one?

OS GetOutside Champions tell us why map reading is so important to them...