Did you know Britain has 82 islands over five square kilometres?
Ordnance Survey has identified these beautiful islands and brought them to life on our Great Britain’s Islands Relief Map. However, this map has done more than simply showcase the islands, it has sparked an epic adventure and the beginning of a challenge with real purpose.
Island82 – A Challenge with Purpose
We’re proud to support OS Champion Lisa Drewe on her bold challenge to visit all 82 islands and uncover an adventure on each. From cycling around Mull on the Hebridean Whale Trail to snorkelling above the seagrass beds of Eigg, Lisa’s journey is a celebration of wild beauty, rich culture, and the resilience of Britain’s islands.
Lisa Drewe – Founder of Islandeering
Lisa Drewe is an author, explorer, and the founder of the website Islandeering, a personal project dedicated to helping people discover UK island adventures with purpose. She has already explored over 500 British islands, written award-winning guidebooks, and champions regenerative travel and conservation.
Lisa is now on a mission to visit (and in some cases revisit) all 82 islands featured on our print. Along the way, she’ll uncover their unique landscapes, wildlife, and communities, while sharing how visitors can explore responsibly and support island ecosystems. Follow her journey as she writes up each adventure, including a dedicated series of posts for Ordnance Survey appearing here soon.
Why do Britiain’s Islands Matter?
Our British Islands are unique. They hold rare habitats, globally important seabird colonies, and rich cultural traditions. But they’re also on the frontline of change, facing rising seas, biodiversity loss, and social challenges. Lisa’s Island82 Challenge shines a light on these issues and will raise awareness of how visitors can tread lightly and give back.
Follow Lisa’s Journey – 82 islands. 82 adventures. 82 reasons for hope.
Lisa’s stories and adventures can be found on her dedicated Island82 project page. Explore the islands, discover adventures, and learn how you can make a positive impact.
Get Your Copy of the British Isles over 5km Relief Map
Ordnance Survey created the British Islands map which inspired Lisa’s challenge, a stunning relief map featuring all 82 islands over 5km. It’s the perfect companion for anyone inspired to start their own island adventure.
By Hilary Pullen
Meet Hilary, Editor of Get Outside – the Ordnance Survey Blog. Hilary is based in North Wales and loves hiking with her dogs in the mountains of Eryri and Bryniau Clwyd, you can find her on Instagram @nearlyuphill and read her guides to walking in North Wales on her blog. Drop her an email hilary.pullen@os.uk if you are interested in posting an article on Get Outside.
