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Gower and Swansea Circular Coast Path Walks
A collection of Gower Peninsula circular walks on the Wales Coast Path - stunning views, gorgeous beaches and fascinating historical ruins.
Blà Bheinn – A stand alone Munro on the Isle of Skye
Blà Bheinn - the only stand alone Munro on the Isle of Skye. Read more about and Kris's adventures on the Isle of Skye.
Beyond the Barracks: Empowering Military Spouses Through Adventure
Find out more about Forces Wives Challenge a rapidly-growing, vibrant community of over 2000 women, united by a passion for the outdoors.
Route Review: Stanton Moor Circular Walk
Stanton Moor Circular: OS Champion Emily Thompson reviews a fascinating route form The OS Peak District Walking Guide - complete with a stone circle!
Route Review: Nethy Bridge Walk
Nethy Bridge Circular Walk: OS Champion Gee Jackson is reviewing a leisurely river walk from our Aviemore & Cairngorms guide book.
River Wye Loop – Cleddon Falls, Bargain Woods, Bigs Weir and BrockWeir
Inspired by 'The Salt Path,' OS Staff member Laura shares how a walk in the Wye Valley became a powerful remedy for overcoming loss.
Moel Siabod from Plas y Brenin – Out and Back
Inspired by 'The Salt Path' OS Champion Liz Asad share the reason she loves this route up Moel Siabod from Plas y Brenin
Cycling The Hebridean Way
Inspired by the life-changing walk in The Salt Path, OS Champion Meg Collington shares her own empowering adventure cycling the Hebridean Way
8 Great Walks at The Salt Path Filming Locations
The Salt Path Film Locations - Explore 8 exciting circular walks on the South West Coast Path with OS Maps
Vatersay Circular – Outer Hebrides
OS Champion Lisa Drewe talks about her profound connection to this Vatersay Circular Walk in the Outer Hebrides.
Raynor Winn on the healing power of walking (and how it feels to be played by Gillian Anderson!)
Raynor Winn discusses the healing power of walking and how she felt about Gillian Anderson playing her in the film of her book The Salt Path
Unearthing The Transformative Power of Hiking – Chrissy Raider
Chrissy Raider is a living and breathing advert for getting outside! Her story shows the transformative power of 'unprocessed exercise' beyond the confines of the gym.
A Guide to Scafell Pike
Scafell Pike Routes & FAQ's: Find out more about hiking up Scafell Pike in the Lake District, England's highest mountain
10 Best Bluebell Walks
There’s no denying that spring is one of the best times to get out and about. Bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) are one of the most iconic spring flowers and you can usually find them in April and May. We’ve rounded up some of the best short bluebell walks across Britain where you’re guaranteed to find these beautiful lilac flowers.
Best Hikes in Bannau Brycheiniog for Beginners
Perfect routes for beginners in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (The Brecon Beacons)
Top 10 English Heritage castles
English Heritage asked their Facebook fans for their favourite English Heritage castles for a great day out. Here's the 10 best!
Paddleboarding the River Ure from Boroughbridge to Linton Lock
The River Ure from Boroughbridge to Linton Lock is the perfect place for a paddleboarding adventure on a warm spring and summer day.
The ‘Silent Walking’ trend that’s getting Gen-Z outdoors
Can you take a silent walk? No music. No podcasts. No livestreaming. No pictures for an Instagram story - not even the occasional 'ding' of a message notification
Lake District Horseshoe Hikes
3 of the best Lake District Horseshoe Hikes - learn about these beautiful walks and why horseshoes routes are more challenging!
Long Distance Footpaths: Discovering Britain’s ‘Diamond’ trails
How do you find the best footpath? Diamonds on OS maps mark named long-distance routes, highlighting footpaths are truly something special!
Best Hikes in the Peak District for Beginners
A few of the best hikes in the Peak District for you to try if you are new to hiking and want something that's easy to follow and not too long!
Map reading skills – beginner’s guides
These simple beginner's guides will teach you the basics of map reading so you can learn how to read a map. Includes a selection of short videos to help you brush up on your map reading skills.
Muckle Roe Shetland Isles – OS Wallpaper February 2025
Muckle Roe, Shetland Isles - a dramatic coastline - photograph by OS Champion Crystal Silver aka @ciss.outdoors
Roseberry Topping Walk – A Perfect Family Hike!
Roseberry Topping Walk - The iconic Roseberry Topping Hill sticks up like a fang from the long escarpment at the northern edge of the North York Moors.
7 of the Best Shetland Walks
When visiting Shetland, you don’t struggle to find beautiful walks. Here are 7 of the Best Shetland Walks chosen by OS Champion Crystal Silver
Our Gym – 28 Gym Days Outdoors
#28GymDaysOutdoors - would you ditch the gym and try exercising outdoors for 28 days? What's the worst that could happen....
Romantic Film Locations in the UK
We have 10 perfect walks for Valentine's Day! These walks are all inspired by the most romantic UK Films and their iconic locations.
The Best Places to Propose in the UK!
The Best Proposal Spots in the UK - Whether you’re planning a lakeside proposal, a castle-themed declaration, or a magical woodland walk, we’ve have some great ideas for your perfect proposal spot.
One Mile Walks!
One Mile Walks are designed to increase access to the outdoors for those who want options for short but perfectly formed circular walks.
How To Easily Add Strength Training Into Your Daily Walk
Incorporating strength training into your daily walk can help build core muscles essential for keeping both our body and brain fit and healthy.
3 Winter Wainwright Hikes: Lake District North Western Fells
Lake District North Western Fells Walks - a short walk, a medium walk and a long walk - great ideas for a hiking weekend in the Lakes!
How to Make Participation In Your Next Running Event More Sustainable
We asked the OS Sustainability lead and keen Trail Runner, Ella Cohen for her thoughts on how participants can be more sustainable before, during and after an event.
9 of the Best UK Coastal Trail Runs
Discover gorgeous UK coastal trail runs to explore! Get off the treadmill and get outside into the fresh coastal air.
OS Maps – Safety Features for Dark Winter Evenings
Introducing 'locate me' on OS Maps, a handy new safety feature to help you whilst out exploring on dark winter evenings
Geal Chàrn Circular Route – 926m Munro
Suzanne and Nick Anderson explore the wilds of Geal Chàrn, a 926 metre Munro for your peak bagging checklist!
Map of UK National Parks
Ordnance Survey is the best place to find a map of UK National Parks - in this post we share artistic 3D Relief Maps of National Parks
Have a National Cheese Lovers Day Adventure!
National Cheese Lovers Day is on the 20th January 2025 - plan a fun cheese themed adventure with OS Maps! (any excuse to eat more cheese right?!)
What Does Leave No Trace Mean?
Do you know what LEAVE NO TRACE really means? Tread gently, move quietly, respect peacefully... but what does is mean in practice
Best Beginner Hikes in Eryri (Snowdonia)
Beginner hikes in Eryri! Hilary Pullen, North Walian and Editor of Get Outside has picked some great beginner hikes to try in Snowdonia!
Warm up with a winter picnic
Get inspired with these winter picnic ideas including what hot food to take on a picnic, how to keep your picnic warm and where to go for a picnic, especially in winter. Includes a simple one pot recipe for you to try.
Top 10 Injury Prevention Tips for Novice Hikers
Injury prevention for hikers, 10 practical tips from Physio and OS Champion Tom Troughton, for those dusting off their hiking boots or new to hiking
Celebrate National Dog Walking Month – Wallace and Gromit’s ‘Forest Walkies’
January is National Dog Walking Month! With Wallace and Gromit’s latest adventure, Vengeance Most Fowl fresh in our minds after its Christmas Day release, there’s no better time to explore the inimitable duo’s ‘Forest Walkies’ routes.
Outdoor Fitness with Purpose – Ditch the Gym and Protect Nature
It’s easy to lose sight of what really matters: moving our bodies, connecting with others, and caring for the world around us. We don't need a gym to do that!
The Most Peaceful Places to Get Fit Away from the Judgy Gym
Bin the Gym and get out into the beautiful UK Countryside! We share our top 10 peaceful places in the UK.
Nutrition for Marathon Training
EXPERT ADVICE: Nutrition for marathon training. Tips from Ordnance Survey Marathon runners.
Eco-Friendly Running Shoes: Repair, Don’t Replace!
Extend the life of your running shoes by making simple and effective repairs - make your trainers more eco-friendly!
PADDINGTON’S NEXT ADVENTURE: MAKE YOUR TOWN HIS HOME
Paddington's next big adventure! Find out how to get a Paddington Statue in your home town!
Get to the Gym v Get Outside
Why you should bin the gym and get outside instead if you want to boost your mental and physical wellbeing this winter
The Benefits of Joining a Group
Need Motivation to Get Outside? Find out all the amazing benefits of joining a group to help motivate you to get outside more!
Christmas Walk Ideas & Inspiration!
Christmas Walk Inspiration! Where will you go on your traditional Christmas or Boxing Day walk this year? We have 12 great ideas and 1000's more on our OS Maps App to try!
Gear Guide: Walking Socks
Having the right walking socks will prevent blisters, regulate foot temperature and wick away moisture, helping you extend your favourite walks. This guide from Bridgedale will help you choose the perfect pair to keep your tootsies comfortable all day long.
21 Days To Form a Habit
It takes 21 days to form a habit. Ordnance Survey's very own Liz Beverley had fallen out of love with running but want to get back into it. Motivation and a nudge in the right direction was all she needed to make it part of her routine. Create a habit in 21 days with a free pfd included.
How To Set Achievable New Years Resolutions
Are you thinking about some New Year Resolutions? Emma Cusworth shares her advice in setting SMART objectives to help keep you on track with your goals for the new year.
Embracing Mindfulness in Nature During Winter
Learn how to practice mindfulness in nature and the benefits it will have on your mental wellbeing
A Cornish Coast Adventure with the NEW Suunto Race S
Holly Atyeo reviews the Suunto Race S on a Cornish Coastal Adventure - find the route map and what she thought of this exciting new performance watch
How to become a Winter Weekend Warrior!
Having some winter treats in your calendar can really help to lift your mood. Make a decision today to become a Winter Weekend Warrior and banish the winter blues!
No Excuses: Practical TIPS for Exercising in Winter
Are you full of excuses when it comes to getting outside in winter? Read our list of top winter exercising tips to keep safe and get energised this winter
The Proven Health Benefits of Getting Outside in Winter
Don't let winter get you down! Get Outside and start reaping the proven mental and physical benefits of spending just 2 hours a week in nature
Beginner’s Guide to wind speeds and safety when walking and hiking
Understand the effects of wind speed in KM/H, MPH, M/S and Beaufort Gale Speeds. Now with added cartoons!
What makes you a runner? My experience with Imposter Syndrome in running
What makes you a runner? OS Champion Crystal Silver talks openly about her imposter syndrome in running despite being an experienced marathon and ultra runner
Outdoorsy Christmas Gift Ideas from Ordnance Survey Champions!
Need some Christmas Gift Inspiration? Our OS Champions have picked out some great outdoorsy gift ideas for your adventure loving friends and family
Fun Outdoor Kids Activities: Route Planning & Navigation Challenge
Set your kids a fun navigation challenge with their own personalised Ordnance Survey Map! Get kids outdoors and having fun learning about their environment in this fun kids outdoor activity idea.
OS Test The Best Lightweight Head Torch – Silva Smini & Smini Fly
Our intrepid OS Champions review the NEW Smini Headtorch and Smini Fly Headtorch - take a look at their in depth reviews
Stocksbridge and the Underbank Reservoir, South Yorkshire
South Yorkshire Route Guide: An easy loop under 5 miles around Stocksbridge and the Underbank Reservoir.
Glyndwr’s Way Circular Walks
Glyndŵr’s Way is a 135-mile (217 km) long National Trail that meanders through the stunning landscapes of mid-Wales. From historic towns and open moorland to rolling farmland and enchanting woodlands, this trail is perfect for all nature lovers.
Nature Walk Bingo Free Printable
Challenge your kids to spot everything on our OS Nature Walk Bingo sheet. This is great for keeping younger kids interested in going a little further on your next walk.
Monday’s are for Mountains – meet Solo Hiker Claire Edwards
A Life More Adventurous: meet Claire Edwards, a solo hiker who shares her story and some great advice and routes for anyone wanting to go it alone in the mountains
Circular Routes from the Offa’s Dyke Path by Rail
Rail2Trail: Offa's Dyke Circular Walking Routes Accessible by Rail - we have a collection of 7 great short circular walks from Chepstow to Prestatyn!
Wild Swimming Safety – Keep safe whilst wild swimming
Wild Swimming Safety - Are you worried about trying wild swimming? Learn how to keep safe when wild wild swimming with our OS Champions
A ‘Wee Dook’ – Eco Adventuring with the Red Equipment Pro Change EVO
Join OS Champion Gee Jackson as takes this brand new changing robe through it's paces in her Red Equipment Pro Change EVO review
Mountain Rescue’s accident black spots
Mountain Rescue England and Wales share with us a handful of accident black spots across Britain, in which they are often called to, and how you can stay safe when visiting these areas.
Winter Hiking Tips from Mountain Rescue – Staying Safe in the Dark
As the days get shorter it's important to take extra precautions when getting outside. Mountain Rescue share their expert advice for staying safe in the dark.
Planning a walking route in 5 easy steps
The Best Walking Route Planner and Guide to planning your own walking route Jonathan from the OS Team outlines how you can get started and find new walking routes with the help of a walking route planner.
Let’s celebrate hills and mountains named after boobs!
Hills named after Boobs! A list of hills and mountains in the British Isles that are named after or shaped like breasts...
Open Water Swimming in Llyn Padarn with the Suunto S Race Watch
Oen water swimming in Llyn Padarn with the Suunto Race S - OS Champion Liz Asad puts this waterproof smart watch to the test!
Which GPS device do you need?
If you’re considering buying a GPS device, you’ll be probably be comparing dozens of models with hundreds of features. Here’s our guide to finding the best GPS. We look at handheld and wearable GPS devices for walking, hiking, running, cycling and off-grid adventures.
Beacons Way Ultra with Suunto Race S
Suunto Race S Review - Tracy out this performance watch to the ultimate test on the Beacons Way Ultra
How to Avoid Blisters When Hiking
How to avoid blisters when hiking! Learn how to ensure you don't get a blister on your next hike
Most Popular National Parks: Britain’s favourite routes
Most popular National Parks in Britain! Using real Ordnance Survey Data we compile a list of Britain's top route locations for outdoor adventures.
Best Christmas Gifts for Outdoor Lovers
Stuck on what to gift this Christmas? The Ordnance Survey team share their best Christmas gifts for outdoor lovers. So, whether they're dog walker, wild swimmer or adventure seeker, there's a present for everyone.
Moel Eilio Route Guide with The Rambling Artist
Moel Eilio, a small peak in the Carneddau mountain range of Eryri, Snowdonia. The route is bought to us by Sharon Whitely, The Rambling Artist
Moel Siabod via Daear Ddu Ridge
Moel Siabod via Daear Ddu Ridge Route Guide- the only summit that you can see 13 of the 14 Welsh 3000's from!
Embracing Eco-Adventure: Sustainable Outdoor Pursuits in the UK
Ordnance Survey Champion Isaac Kenyon will be exploring what an eco-adventure is, share best practices for eco-friendly outings, highlight destinations that prioritise sustainability, and offer tips for reducing your environmental footprint while exploring the great outdoors in the UK.
Lake District Paddle Boarding: 15 great spots to launch
Lake District Paddle Boarding - Where to launch a paddle board in the lake district. Expert paddler Jo Moseley shares 20 great spots to launch a paddle board in the Lake District
Cwm Tryfan Circular Walk – Ogwen Valley
Cwm Tryfan Circular Walk in the Ogwen Valley, perfect for short days or with kids
Mynydd Twr (Holyhead Mountain) Circular Walk with South Stack and North Stack
Mynydd Twr (Holyhead Mountain) circular walk with south stack and north stack included
OS Test The Best: Lightweight Running Jacket
OS TEST THE BEST Lightweight Running Jacket: Mac In A Sac Venture Ultralite Running Jacket Review. Our OS Champions have been putting this new hiking and running jacket through its paces.
Is Wild Camping Legal in England & Wales?
Is wild camping legal in England and Wales and can you get into trouble wild camping? Read our advice and wild camping code
Hiking Poles Guide – Everything you need to know about choosing the right walking poles!
Hiking Poles - a complete guide to hiking poles including a look at all the main features and how to use hiking poles when walking
Hiking Checklist
There's a fine line between having the right equipment to keep you safe and comfortable on a walk and being so weighed down with unnecessary kit you'll struggle. Our hiking checklist will help you get kitted out with essential gear for a long day on the trail and tell you what to take on a walk.
A Bridleway Map in Your Pocket: Ten of the Best BHS Horse Riding Routes
Top 10 Bridleways in the UK! Whether you’re asking: ‘where are the bridleways near me?’ or planning a hack further afield, the British Horse Society’s riding routes are a fantastic resource!
Beginners guide to choosing a GPS device
Would you like to use a walking, running or cycling GPS device to make your outdoor activities easier, safer or more fun but don't know where to start? This GPS guide looks at different features and functions to help you choose a GPS device most suited to you.
Walking Around Glastonbury Festival – top tips from our team!
Walking Around Glastonbury Festival - Top tips from our team on navigating your way around Glasto!
How Can Festivals Be More Sustainable?
How can festivals be more sustainable? Take a look at 5 festivals that are taking sustainability seriously
British Wildflowers to Spot on Your Next Countryside Walk
British Wildflowers - 10 common varieties of wildflower you will find when walking in the UK.
Hiking for Beginners – A Complete Guide
Hiking for beginners, a complete guide to hiking safety, hiking fitness and the best UK Routes for beginners
Breeding Bird Surveys – Mapping the story of birds
Bird Breeding Survey and Methodology - OS Analyst Nichaphat Sukontason writes about running a Breeding Bird Survey around Ordnance Survey HQ and shows you how you can get involved.
Mountain Safety in the Summer
Mountain Safety: Ordnance Survey, Mountain Rescue England and Wales and the Met Office join forces to offer some great advice on summer safety in the mountains.
Tour of Britain Cycling Challenges
Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Women is in June. OS and British Cycling have picked out four Mountain climbs for you and your friends to challenge yourselves.
Rydal Cave
Sat between Ambleside and Grasmere, Rydal is home to the extensively photographed Rydal Cave, a manmade former quarry. #GetOutside Champion Rory Southworth takes us on a leisurely 6.2km route.
Ogden Reservoir to Windy Hill
Let’s face it, 2020 was a horrible year, with many people stuck inside and unable to see friends, family, and loved ones. However, many of us found solace in the outdoors, something that we usually took for granted suddenly became the highlight of the day. Reconnecting with nature and our local areas has helped us both mentally and physically and allowed us to appreciate a slower pace of life.
Mountain Biking around Claife Heights
The Lake District is a hub for adventure, whether you’re looking for multi-day hikes or just escaping for a few hours. It's also home to some amazing gravel tracks and quiet lanes that are perfect for getting out on the mountain bike.
Limb Valley – a hidden woodland walk
Be sure you're winter-ready for your next chilly hike. GetOutside Champion Jessie Leong shares her top tips, plus a Limb Valley woodland route that's not to be missed this winter season.
Isle of Wight Coastal Path
The Isle of Wight Coastal Path is a 70-mile waymarked walk which goes around the whole island. It hugs much of the coastline and can easily be split into shorter sections. Helen from the OS Team shares her experience of running the route in a day.
Hutton Roof Crags
Hutton Roof Crags is a lesser walked area in Cumbria. Rory Southworth takes us through a remarkable hillside littered with limestone pavement.
Cycling King Alfred’s Way
The King Alfred’s Way is a 350km circular off-road cycling route that will take you back in time. Combining beautiful rural scenery with some of Britain’s most iconic historic sites and four National Trails this ride makes a great bikepacking adventure.
The very best of the Langdale Pikes
James Forrest explores the very best of the Langdale Pikes in a long – but glorious – day of hiking.
Cycling The Trafalgar Way
Taking on 288 miles/461km of cycling, Kate Jamieson takes us on her adventure from Falmouth to London along The Trafalgar Way.
The Howgill Fells
Drive along the M6 motorway between Carlisle and Lancaster and a magnificent mountain range will rise before you. Fells such as Great Gable, Helvellyn, The Langdale Pikes and Scafell Pike will entice you in with their rugged charm.
Old Man of Coniston and Levers Water Circular
The Old Man of Coniston is part of the Furness Fells in the Lake District standing 803m high, and lies to the west of the village of Coniston, and Coniston Water. OS GetOutside Champion duo, TwoTravlrs, take us across this underrated beauty of the Lakes.
Moel Siabod Circular walk
Follow this medium difficulty walking route up Moel Siabod in Snowdonia with brilliant views from the summit
Jack’s Rake Scramble
Jack’s Rake is a brilliant grade 1 scramble in the stunning Langdale area of the Lake District, with potential for something more for those looking for a bit of a bigger thrill or an extended adventure.
Ben Nevis Summit: Discover the best walking routes to the top
Unlock the secrets of Ben Nevis with our comprehensive guide to the best walking routes to the top. Discover breathtaking paths, where to park, and essential information about facilities, terrain and difficulty.
Autumn Walking Guide
As we get into autumn the clothing and equipment you need for walking and hiking changes too. Here's a guide handy guide on autumn walking gear
Wet weather gear guide
Don't get caught out by the rain, be prepared for your next walk with this wet weather gear guide.
Summer gear guide for outdoor adventures
IIn this summer gear guide, we ask the Ordnance Survey team about their best outdoor product for this summer and how it helps them enjoy their time outside.
Free Map Reading Guides
Brush up on your map reading skills with these free guides from National Map Reading Week suitable for total beginners, expert navigators and even kids.
Which compass is best for me?
In some sense, all compasses do the same job but not everyone uses them for the same purpose. There are many different models with variations in features, accuracy and functionality. We take a look at some of the best on the market to help you decide which compass is right for you.
Advice from Mountain Rescue
Mountain Rescue England and Wales share their expert advice to help you stay safe outdoors. Find out how to plan ahead, stay safe on the hills and how to call Mountain Rescue in an emergency.
Planning a long distance walk
There’s nothing more exciting than heading out the door on an adventure, especially walking a long-distance path. Here's everything you need to know to walk one of Britain's National or Regional trails or, plan your own multi-day route.
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 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.
8 of the best spring hiking escapes for Londoners
OS Champion Alex Middleton shows us how accessible outdoor spaces are from London. Here's 8 of his favourite spots for hiking near London which are all within 90 minutes from the capital city. All these routes make a great spring walk.
Gear Guide: Head torches
During winter and autumn and on overnight trips you’ll need a light to see where you’re going and what you’re doing. This gear guide tells you all you need to know about headtorches to help you choose the perfect one for you.
10 best spring walks
Whether you’re looking to find beautiful bluebells, delicious wild garlic, or cute newborn lambs, our 10 best spring walks will help you do just that.
Free maps to colour in
Looking for something stress-busting? These maps for colouring in are available as a free PDF download to print at home or use on a digital device app such as Procreate or Photoshop.
Walk the South West Coast Path in 8 Sections
Discover some of the most picturesque views in England with the South West Coast Path.