The ability to competently and safely navigate using a map and compass is a skill which anyone involved in outdoor activities should (must) have.

We have provided map reading and navigation training since 1986

You may book on to a group course with other like-minded people or book a bespoke course just for yourself, or for you and some friends.  Private, individual lessons are also available.

ALL of our instructors are fully qualified Mountain Leaders who are fully insured and hold a current Outdoor First Aid certificate.

Novice / Refresher – One Day (£80, optional extra)

These one-day courses are available as an optional extra on the Friday before all Intermediate level courses. They are ideal for anyone new to map reading, as well as those with some experience who would like a brief refresher on the basics.

The day covers an introduction to map reading and basic compass skills, with plenty of time to practice outdoors in a supportive environment. By the end of the day, you’ll have the confidence and skills needed to comfortably join the Intermediate course for the following two days.

To book this optional extra day, please use the dropdown on the main booking form.

Intermediate – Two Days (Optional NNAS Silver Level Award)

Our two-day Intermediate course is our most popular option. It is designed to improve your map reading skills and teach you how to combine map and compass navigation, enabling you to navigate confidently in both good and poor visibility.

No prior compass experience is required, as the course will take you through all the essentials step by step. If you already have some experience, revisiting the basics before progressing to more advanced techniques proves extremely useful.

During the course, you will practise a variety of terrain navigation scenarios, learn to interpret complex map features, and apply route planning, pacing, and timing strategies.

If you would like to take the NNAS Silver Level assessment, please select this option on the booking form.  This is a continual assessment throughout the weekend, so you won’t need to do anything extra.

Advanced – Three Days (Optional NNAS Gold Level Award)

This three-day advanced navigation course is designed for experienced navigators who want to refine their skills and gain confidence in challenging conditions. You’ll have the opportunity to develop and practise techniques required to move accurately through complex terrain, using sound, safe, and efficient navigation strategies.

Over the three days, you’ll tackle a variety of challenging environments, from intricate contour features and poor visibility to mixed open and enclosed terrain. The course includes day and night navigation exercises, so don’t forget your headtorch, allowing you to consolidate techniques when visibility is limited and decision-making becomes more critical.

A full hill day provides the chance to apply your skills over a longer journey, integrating route planning, pacing, timing, and relocation strategies in a realistic mountain context. By the end of the course, you’ll be confident in navigating safely and effectively in complex and unfamiliar terrain, both in daylight and darkness.

If you would like to take the NNAS Gold Level assessment, please select this option on the booking form.  This is a continual assessment throughout the weekend, so you won’t need to do anything extra.