Developing confidence in map reading and navigation is key to enjoying the outdoors safely. This course is designed for those who want to improve their ability to navigate off the beaten track, using maps and a compass to plan and follow a route. With expert instruction, you’ll gain practical skills to help you feel more independent on footpaths, bridleways, open moors, and hills across the UK.
The day starts with an introduction to map reading, including an overview of symbols, contour lines, and key navigation techniques. You’ll learn how to orientate a map to match the landscape, use grid references, and understand how different terrain features appear on the map.
Once the basics are covered, we’ll move into practical exercises in the surrounding hills. You’ll practise taking bearings with a compass, following routes, and using natural features to navigate. Throughout the day, there will be opportunities to test your skills by leading small sections, with the instructor providing support and feedback. If you ever lose track of your location, we’ll cover simple relocation strategies to help you regain confidence and stay on course.
By the end of the course, you’ll have developed a structured approach to navigation, improved your ability to plan and follow routes, and built confidence in reading the landscape. You’ll also receive guidance on areas for further improvement if you wish to progress your skills further.
This course is based in the heart of the Peak District, an ideal setting with a mix of open moors, valleys, and well-defined paths to help develop a range of navigation skills. The terrain provides a great balance between challenge and accessibility, allowing participants to put their new skills into practice in a real-world environment.
Clear joining instructions, including the exact meeting point and any additional details, will be provided upon booking.
No prior experience is necessary, but a willingness to learn and spend a full day outdoors is important. The course involves walking on uneven terrain, so a reasonable level of fitness is required.
If you have any concerns about your ability to take part, please get in touch before booking.
Based in the heart of the Peak District National Park, our team has years of experience delivering high-quality outdoor training to individuals, groups, and charities from across the UK and beyond. With a large team of qualified instructors, we can tailor our courses to suit all experience levels, ensuring a personalised and supportive learning environment. Whether you’re looking for one-to-one instruction or a course for a small group, we can accommodate your needs.
Our instructors are all fully qualified Mountain Leaders with extensive knowledge of the Peak District and a passion for helping people build confidence in the outdoors. With a practical, hands-on approach to teaching, they ensure that every participant leaves with a solid understanding of navigation and the skills needed to explore safely and independently.
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
About the centre
Peak District
Operated by Dolomite Training, a partner of adventuro.
