*closed session for members of Women Who Cumbria*

Maps and compasses can feel a bit intimidating. Contours, grid references, bearings… where do you even start?

The good news is, you don’t need to be a navigation expert to start finding your way with confidence.

This full-day experience is a practical introduction to map and compass skills, giving you the foundations you need to start planning and navigating your own walks. We’ll learn together, then put those skills into practice on a gentle-paced walk around the stunning Buttermere area, using what we’ve learned as we go.

The day is relaxed and supportive, with plenty of time to practice, ask questions and build confidence. No pressure, no rushing, just learning by doing.

In one full day you will:

• Learn the basics of reading an OS map, including contours, features and understanding the landscape around you.

• Get to grips with using a compass and learn the foundations of taking and following a bearing.

• Understand the key principles of planning a walk, including thinking about route, distance, terrain and navigation.

• Put your new skills into practice on the fells around Buttermere, with guidance and support throughout.

• Walk away with the knowledge and confidence to start planning your own adventures.

This is for you if:

• You’d love to explore more independently but don’t feel confident navigating yet.

• Maps and compasses feel confusing or intimidating and you’re not sure where to start.

• You’ve done some walking but tend to stick to well-established routes and would like to understand how to plan your own.

• You want a relaxed, practical day where you can learn without pressure or feeling like you should already know what you’re doing.

• You’ve completed an Adventure Confidence Day and want to build on your skills (this isn’t essential).