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Build a solid foundation in navigation with this two-day NNAS Bronze course, ideal for beginners. You will practise using linear features, grid references, pacing, and safe route planning. Available in either Sid Vale or Dartmoor, the course offers hands-on navigation training in real countryside terrain.
The course begins with an introduction to map interpretation, compass use, and navigation theory. You will learn to follow linear features such as paths and walls, estimate distance through pacing, and use basic relocation techniques if off-course.
Practical exercises take place in the surrounding countryside. At Sid Vale, woodland and tracks allow safe practice of bearings and simple route following. Dartmoor provides open moorland and hills to test contour interpretation, micro-navigation, and decision-making.
A final debrief reviews progress, highlights strengths, identifies areas for improvement, and provides guidance on planning future walks independently. You will leave equipped with practical skills and confidence for independent navigation.
Sid Vale is set within a varied countryside environment, combining woodlands, gentle slopes, open fields, and networked tracks. This variety allows you to practice navigation techniques on different terrain types, giving experience in both straightforward handrail navigation and contour interpretation in a manageable setting. Proximity to local roads and accessible paths ensures convenience and safety while practising skills.
Dartmoor presents more open and rugged terrain, with extensive moorland, hills, valleys, and limited marked paths. Here, you will apply navigation skills in a setting that simulates real-world challenges. The wide landscape encourages practice of micro-navigation, relocation strategies, and route planning, helping you adapt to changing conditions such as fog, uneven ground, or unexpected obstacles. Both locations are chosen to reflect the principles of the NNAS Bronze syllabus while providing a safe but realistic environment.
No previous navigation experience is required, although comfort walking on countryside paths is important.
Bring walking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, and a small rucksack with water and food. Maps and compasses are supplied for all practical exercises.
The instructors have extensive experience in outdoor education and navigation training, focusing on providing personalised guidance that develops your confidence and competence. Each session is designed to balance practical exercises with supportive feedback, ensuring that all participants gain real-world skills they can rely on in independent walking.
Small group sizes allow attention to individual progress, enabling tailored instruction on map reading, compass use, and relocation techniques. Both Sid Vale and Dartmoor offer complementary terrain types: Sid Vale for controlled practice in woodland and tracks, and Dartmoor for open, challenging environments that build resilience and confidence. Participants leave the course with the skills, knowledge, and independence to navigate safely in a range of countryside settings.
For more information contact us before making your booking
Beginners or those with very little navigation experience are ideal for this course. It is suitable for walkers who want to gain independence and confidence when using a map and compass.
It is also a great course for Scouts, Guides, or anyone preparing for leadership or walking awards. The exercises focus on building confidence and decision-making in real countryside conditions.
The course typically runs over two days with around 12 hours of instruction and practical exercises.
The first day focuses on map reading, compass use, and following linear features. Day two covers practical navigation exercises, route planning, and relocation techniques to consolidate learning.
You will learn to orientate maps, follow linear features, take 4- and 6-figure grid references, and use pacing to estimate distances.
Relocation techniques are included to help recover your position if you get off course. These skills give you a foundation to navigate independently in countryside areas.
Maps and compasses are provided for the course, so you don’t need your own equipment.
Participants should bring personal walking gear, including boots, weatherproof clothing, a small backpack, water, and snacks. Extra layers may be useful depending on conditions.
A certificate of completion is awarded at the end of the course.
Instructors may also carry out a short practical or knowledge check to ensure that you understand the navigation techniques covered.
Moderate fitness is required to walk on uneven paths, woodland tracks, and hills. The course is more about navigation skills than endurance.
Instructors monitor pace and adjust exercises as necessary. Rest breaks are included to maintain comfort and safety.
About the centre
Newton Abbot
Operated by Aquila Outdoor Adventures, a partner of adventuro.
