How to Understand Ordnance Survey Maps

Ordnance Survey (OS) maps are essential tools for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and survivalists venturing into the UK’s diverse landscapes. These detailed maps provide vital information, allowing you to navigate safely and confidently through the wilderness. Understanding OS maps can be a daunting task, but with a little guidance and practice, you can unlock their full potential.

In this article, we will delve into the key elements of OS maps, decipher their symbols and markings, and equip you with the skills needed to read and interpret these invaluable navigational aids.

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We strongly believe that paper maps are a vital part of prepping. In fact, every prepper should have at least one paper map of their local area, if not more. Paper maps will be invaluable after a disaster, when phones and other technology might not be available.

For preppers in the UK, Ordnance Survey maps are by far the best paper maps, with excellent detail and large scales. Visit the Ordnance Survey online shop to buy maps (England, Scotland, Wales and Republic of Ireland maps available), or Ordnance Survey NI for maps of Northern Ireland.

For preppers outside the UK, other maps are available that can be just as useful. In the US, for example, Rand McNally maps are great and are available at the state level.

The Basics of Ordnance Survey Maps

Ordnance Survey maps are renowned for their accuracy and detail, capturing the UK’s topography, landmarks, and infrastructure. They provide a wealth of information, including terrain contours, footpaths, roads, rivers, and even man-made features. The first step in understanding OS maps is familiarizing yourself with their essential components. These include the grid system, scale, legend, and map symbols. The grid system divides the map into easily identifiable squares, enabling precise location referencing. The scale indicates the map’s level of detail and helps estimate distances. The legend decodes the various symbols and colours used on the map, providing crucial information about physical and human-made features.

Interpreting OS Map Symbols

Map symbols are vital for comprehending OS maps. They represent different geographical elements and provide valuable insights into the landscape. Understanding commonly used symbols is key to interpreting OS maps effectively. Symbols can denote natural features such as mountains, forests, and water bodies, as well as human-made structures like buildings, roads, and railways. Different line styles and colours indicate the classification and condition of roads and footpaths, while contour lines depict changes in elevation and help visualize the terrain’s shape. Furthermore, map symbols can indicate landmarks, viewpoints, campsites, and other essential points of interest.

Let’s explore some of the basic map symbols and their meanings:

1. Contour Lines: Contour lines are curved lines that indicate changes in elevation and the shape of the terrain. They help you visualize hills, valleys, ridges, and other landforms. Closer contour lines indicate steep slopes, while widely spaced lines represent flatter areas.
2. Roads and Footpaths: Roads are typically represented by different types of lines. Motorways are shown as broad blue lines, A-roads as thinner blue lines, and minor roads as black lines. Footpaths and trails are depicted with dashed or dotted lines, varying in style and thickness depending on their classification. Use these to plan alternative escape routes, or routes to return home after a disaster.
3. Water Features: Rivers, streams, and canals are depicted as blue lines, with wider lines indicating larger bodies of water. Lakes and ponds are shown as blue shapes filled with a lighter shade of blue. Marshes and wetlands are represented by blue lines with small perpendicular lines. These symbols are useful to use your map to identify potential sources of water.
4. Woodland and Forests: Woodland areas are displayed as green areas with a green tint. Forests are depicted with darker green symbols. Individual trees may be represented by small green dots or symbols, depending on the map scale. Useful for identifying potential bug out camping spots, or sources of wood after a disaster.
5. Buildings and Structures: Buildings are often shown as black squares or rectangles, with larger symbols indicating significant structures like churches or castles. Other structures such as windmills, towers, or ruins have their own unique symbols.
6. Points of Interest: OS maps also include symbols for points of interest such as campsites, viewpoints, archaeological sites, and tourist attractions. These symbols are often accompanied by labels or names.

Each map has a detailed key printed on it to explain all of the symbols. The map symbols are generally all very easy to understand, making navigation with OS maps simple.

Navigating with OS Maps

Once you have familiarized yourself with the essential components and symbols of the OS maps, it’s time to put your knowledge into practice and navigate confidently through the wilderness. Effective navigation involves aligning the map, determining your location, planning your route, and tracking your progress. Let’s explore some key techniques for navigating with OS maps:

1. Map Alignment: Before you can navigate with an OS map, it’s important to align it correctly. You can align your map with magnetic north by using a compass. Begin by placing your map on a flat surface and lay your compass on top, ensuring the compass’s directional arrow is pointing north. Rotate the map and compass together until the magnetic needle aligns with the orienting arrow on the compass. This process will orient the map to match the surrounding landscape, helping you identify features accurately.
2. Determining Your Location: To determine your location on the map, look for prominent landmarks that are easily recognizable, such as hilltops, rivers, or distinctive structures. Use these landmarks to identify your position on the map by correlating them with their representations. Another method is to use grid references. Each OS map is divided into grid squares, and by referencing the grid lines and numbers, you can pinpoint your location with greater precision.
3. Route Planning: When planning your route, take into account the terrain, footpath classifications, and the information provided on the map. Look for footpaths, bridleways, or trails that align with your desired direction. Consider the contour lines to anticipate any elevation changes and the difficulty of the terrain. Plan checkpoints or intermediate destinations along your route to keep track of your progress and make adjustments if necessary.
4. Tracking Your Progress: As you navigate, it’s important to track your progress on the map. Regularly update your position by identifying new landmarks or using GPS devices if available. Orient the map according to your current heading to maintain accuracy. By comparing your actual location with your planned route, you can assess your progress and make informed decisions regarding the best way forward.

Remember, practice is key to becoming proficient in navigating with OS maps. Start with shorter and familiar routes to build your confidence before tackling more challenging terrains. Consider taking navigation courses or joining local hiking groups to learn from experienced navigators and gain valuable insights.

Additional Tips and Resources

To enhance your map-reading skills, practice regularly in a variety of terrains. Familiarize yourself with alternative map scales and understand the differences they present in detail. Buy a good compass, we recommend the Suunto M3 NH compass (if you’re in the northern hemisphere – there is a global version too for both hemispheres). Use your compass and map to navigate, with any GPS devices as backup only. Remember to carry a waterproof map case (or buy waterproof maps) and ensure your map is up to date. OS maps are regularly updated to reflect changes in the landscape, so check for revised editions before setting off on your journey. Additionally, consider taking navigation courses or joining local hiking groups to further refine your skills and learn from experienced navigators.

Navigate with Confidence Using Ordnance Survey Maps

Ordnance Survey maps are invaluable companions for anyone exploring the UK’s vast and beautiful wilderness. By understanding the fundamental elements, deciphering symbols, and applying effective navigation techniques, you can confidently embark on your outdoor adventures. Remember, practice makes perfect, and the more you immerse yourself in using OS maps, the more proficient you will become.

With each expedition, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the landscapes, landmarks, and routes, allowing you to explore with confidence and safety. Understanding OS maps opens up a world of possibilities for hiking, camping, and outdoor exploration, enabling you to appreciate the natural beauty of the UK while keeping yourself on track.

In addition to practicing your map-reading skills, it’s essential to stay updated on new technologies and resources that can aid in navigation. Mobile applications and GPS devices can supplement traditional map-reading techniques, providing real-time tracking and route planning capabilities. However, always carry a physical map as a backup in case of technological failures or battery depletion.

Remember, safety should always be a priority when venturing into the wilderness. Before embarking on any outdoor adventure, ensure you are adequately prepared with appropriate clothing, footwear, and equipment. Inform someone about your plans and estimated return time, and familiarize yourself with safety guidelines for the area you’ll be exploring.

The Ordnance Survey website (www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk) is a valuable resource for furthering your understanding of OS maps. It offers tutorials, guides, and access to digital mapping services that can enhance your map-reading skills. Take advantage of these resources to deepen your knowledge and confidence in using OS maps.

Mastering the art of understanding Ordnance Survey maps is a skill that opens up a world of exploration and adventure in the UK’s wilderness. By familiarizing yourself with the map’s components, deciphering symbols, and applying navigation techniques, you can confidently navigate through diverse terrains and discover the hidden gems of the British landscape. Embrace the journey, enjoy the beauty of nature, and let OS maps be your trusted companion on every expedition.

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