Build confidence in navigating hills and moorland with practical map reading and route planning skills. Full-day courses are designed for beginners and anyone looking to improve their ability to move safely and efficiently in the outdoors.
Courses provide a full day of guided instruction on navigation and map reading. You will practise reading maps, taking and following bearings, and planning efficient walking routes. Instructors demonstrate techniques and offer guidance as you navigate real terrain across hills and moorland.
Practical exercises include relocating if lost, interpreting terrain features, and adapting walking strategies based on terrain, visibility, and weather conditions. The pace allows time to practise skills and ask questions throughout the day.
Courses can be chosen at Dartmoor or Sidvale, with routes adapted to the location’s terrain and environment. Instructors ensure that each walk is safe, engaging, and matched to participants’ abilities.
Sessions are conducted across Dartmoor or at Sidvale Scout Centre, providing varied terrain including footpaths, open moorland, and woodland. Locations are selected to combine safety with practical navigation opportunities.
Briefing and planning areas are available at each centre, giving participants time to prepare maps, plan routes, and review safety procedures before heading out. Instructors tailor routes to the group’s pace and skill level.
No prior navigation experience is required. Participants should wear suitable clothing and footwear and bring a small pack with water and personal items.
Maps and compasses are provided for practical exercises. Food, drinks, walking boots, bags, and personal clothing are not included.
Qualified instructors provide personalised guidance, helping participants gain confidence in navigation and route planning. Sessions emphasise hazard awareness, efficient walking, and practical skills for independent hill walking.
Flexible choice of location allows participants to select Dartmoor or Sidvale, with routes adapted to the terrain and skill level. Instruction focuses on building practical competence, safety awareness, and confidence outdoors.
For more information contact us before making your booking
Participants aged 7 and older are welcome. Instructors adapt the pace and guidance to suit younger participants while ensuring everyone gains practical skills.
Skills covered include reading maps, following bearings, and planning safe routes in moorland and woodland.
No experience is necessary. Beginners are guided through map reading, compass use, and route planning.
Participants with some experience can practise applying techniques in real terrain while receiving feedback from instructors.
Each session is a full day, typically 6–7 hours including briefings, practical exercises, and breaks.
The structure allows time for map work, navigation practice, and review of skills learned throughout the day.
You will practise using maps and compasses, taking bearings, interpreting terrain, and planning efficient walking routes.
Exercises include relocating if lost, adjusting pace and route based on terrain and weather, and understanding basic hazard management.
Yes, courses are available at Dartmoor or Sidvale Scout Centre.
Instructors select routes appropriate to the chosen location, ensuring safe terrain and practical navigation opportunities for all participants.
Wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear. Bring a small pack with water and personal items.
Maps and compasses are provided, but food, drinks, walking boots, bags, and additional clothing are not included.
About the centre
Broadleas, Haytor Road, Newton Abbot TQ13 9XS
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.
Operated by Aquila Outdoor Adventures, a partner of adventuro.
