Introduction to Navigation, Map Reading and Route Planning Workshop

Description

The Introduction to Navigation, Map Reading and Route Planning Workshop is a practical one-day course designed to build confidence in navigating the countryside using a map and compass. Delivered by ML or HML qualified instructors, this workshop removes the mystery from navigation and replaces it with clear, usable skills that participants can apply immediately on their own walks. Running from 09:30 to approximately 16:30, the day is split between relaxed indoor learning and hands-on outdoor practice. The workshop is suitable for those aged 16 and over, with under-18s welcome when accompanied by an adult. Group sizes are kept manageable to ensure plenty of support and opportunity for questions throughout. By the end of the day, participants will have the confidence to plan and follow their own lowland walking routes using the footpath network of the Peak District. Learning the Essentials: The morning begins indoors at our World of Bushcraft Centre in Rowsley, where participants are welcomed with a brew and introduced to the core principles of navigation in a calm, comfortable setting. During this session you will be guided through: - Understanding maps, symbols, and key features. - Reading and using contours. - Map scales and distance calculation. - Using grid references. - Compass features and basic operation. - Simple route planning. - Equipment considerations. - Emergency procedures and common pitfalls. Maps and compasses are provided, allowing you to focus fully on learning rather than equipment. Instruction is clear, practical, and paced to suit beginners, with plenty of opportunity to revisit concepts before heading outdoors. Putting It into Practice: Once the classroom knowledge is in place, the course moves outside to apply those skills in the real world. The afternoon session takes place on the footpaths around the Haddon Hall Estate, where participants work through practical navigation exercises supported by the instructor. Skills covered outdoors include: - Orientating the map in the landscape. - Identifying features on the ground. - Using the compass effectively in real conditions. - Taking and following bearings. - Using triangulation and features to fix position. - Converting distances into pacing and timing. This hands-on element is where confidence truly develops, bridging the gap between understanding navigation and using it independently. A Supportive Learning Environment: The workshop is designed to be friendly, approachable, and confidence-building, whether you are completely new to navigation or looking to refresh existing skills. Tea and coffee are available during the morning classroom session. For the afternoon participants should bring a packed lunch, water bottle, and suitable clothing and footwear for walking outdoors in variable weather. Maps and compasses are provided, although participants are welcome to bring their own if preferred. Only paid participants will have resources allocated for hands-on participation. Under-18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. In Summary: The Introduction to Navigation, Map Reading and Route Planning Workshop provides a clear and practical foundation in map and compass skills. Participants leave with the knowledge and confidence to plan routes, interpret the landscape, and navigate safely without relying on digital devices. This workshop is ideal for walkers, bushcrafters, and outdoor enthusiasts who want to move beyond following others and begin navigating independently with confidence.

What's included in the price?

All materials needed for the workshop plus tea and coffee.

Cancellation policy

Strict - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 8 weeks before the course starts

Maker

Woodland Ways

with Craft Courses since 2022

Message the tutor

We are first and foremost a leading bushcraft company employing a small close knit and highly experienced team of individuals. Together we hope to bring you the very best in Bushcraft & Survival Courses both in the UK and overseas bushcraft training courses and experiences. Over the years since Woodland Ways' inception we have become widely recognised for the diversity of courses we operate and the utmost attention to detail and professionalism imparted on those courses. Our delivery of activities on courses has safety, enjoyment and learning at the forefront of everything we do. By an appropriate blend of explanation, demonstration and participation you will be encouraged to gain as much hands on experience of bushcraft as possible. We operate courses the year round in a range of outdoor arenas from our own diverse British woodlands, to the far flung reaches of the African bush and the wilder places of Europe. The natural environment supports us, inspires us and is fundamental to our businesses success. As such we have a very strong message of environmental sustainability and sensitivity. Woodland management and respect of flora and fauna feature throughout all of our courses. Our ethos is designed to show you how to have a minimum reliance on modern materials and equipment and instead to really work with nature and her seasonal variability for your comfort and needs out of doors. It is important for us to clearly state we do not promote heavy handed boot camp approaches to our activities and neither do we rely on a more spiritual ethos (although we respect both traditions) rather we see ourselves as non-romantic, practical woods people. We want you to leave our bushcraft courses with a new skill set and great memories.