OS Team • Map Reading • Jul 20, 2023 • 10 minutes
Learn to map read for free with these guides from National Map Reading Week, which aims to inspire people of all ages and interests to get outside, find adventure and make memories. Reading a map can take you off the main paths and discover new places - we’re here to help you learn how!
Take the map reading quiz!
Download our free map reading leaflets: Map reading made easy for children and Map reading - beginners to advanced for adults or teenagers. You can even print or save them to your phone!
Beginner's map reading skills
Do you know what contour lines are? Can you use a basic compass? Would you like to know how you can measure distance on a map? Our collection of beginner's map reading guides will help get you started in no time.
Advanced map reading skills
Already got the basics but want to improve your navigation in difficult situations? Learn how to pinpoint your location when lost and read contours to identify the terrain. Check out our advanced map reading guides.
It's recommended you carry a paper map as a back up to any digital mapping on your device. Buy any OS Explorer or Landranger paper map and save 15% on a waterproof map case or an OS Compass including the all new OS Mirror Compass.
Instil a love of the outdoors that will last a lifetime. From toddlers to teenagers, teaching children about maps at any age will set them up for future adventures and keep them safe. Our extensive range of map reading guides especially for kids will help.
Map reading skills for children
Understand map symbols
Do you know what every symbol, line and colour means on an OS Map? This guide to map symbols will help you better understand a map, do you know where you can go and what you can do there.
Map reading educational resources
Whether you're a teacher or a parent, take a look at our Education Resources for project ideas and teaching aids, plus find games to play in our fun MapZone area.
With the help of Shaun the Sheep, find out more about how you can enjoy the outdoors responsibly.
Check out our 10-part how-to video guides for everything you need to know about using OS Maps.
Get on and offline access to all 607 leisure maps in the palm of your hand and choose from hundreds of thousands of routes or create your own.
Help kids learn more about the outdoors and become a map reading expert the OS Kids Adventure Book.
Packed full of fun puzzles and challenges to keep them entertained for hours. This book is perfect for kids aged eight and older and helps take map reading offline.
From planning & creating your own routes, or discovering ready-made ones; to following & recording your progress and staying on track; OS Maps puts mapping & navigation tools at your fingertips to make it easy for anyone to get outside safely and discover the outdoors.
Be inspired to do more and go further by equipping yourself with the best tools for the job. Our maps are built on 220 years of experience - we keep walkers, runners, cyclists and more safe in the great outdoors all year round.
Available from local outdoors retailers, bookshops and our online OS shop.
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