NNAS Bronze Navigation Course at Dartmoor National Park

The Bronze NNAS Award is ideal for anyone who wants to gain more confidence in planning and completing walks. Whether you're completely new to walking or have some experience but always follow others or stick to known routes, this course is a great way to become more independent. It's also a useful refresher for those who’ve not used map and compass skills in a while.

There’s no minimum age and no upper age limit. Participants come from all walks of life and often have a range of experience levels. If you enjoy being outside and want to build practical navigation skills in a relaxed, supportive setting, you’ll be well suited to this course.

Day one is dedicated to covering the Bronze NNAS syllabus in detail. You’ll spend the full day on Dartmoor learning how to use a map and compass, estimate distances, follow features, and plan routes. Instruction is delivered in a practical, hands-on way so you can apply each skill straight away with guidance.

On day two, you’ll take part in a group-planned walk where you’ll get the chance to put all the skills into practice. This consolidation day helps you gain confidence by making real-time decisions and correcting any errors along the way. The instructor will support you throughout and assess your ability in a relaxed and encouraging manner.

That’s completely fine. This course is designed specifically with beginners in mind and assumes no prior experience. You'll be shown how to use the equipment from scratch, and everything will be explained clearly and at a manageable pace.

You’ll also get plenty of time to practise each technique throughout the day, with support whenever needed. No question is too basic, and the group environment is friendly and welcoming, with everyone learning together.

All maps, compasses and course notes are provided, so you don’t need to worry about buying specialist navigation tools in advance. We can also lend you outdoor clothing like waterproof jackets and trousers if required—just let us know when you book.

However, you will need to bring your own lunch, snacks, and at least one litre of water for each day. Good walking boots or shoes with grip are strongly recommended as the terrain can be uneven and occasionally wet underfoot.

Yes—if you successfully demonstrate the skills outlined in the NNAS Bronze syllabus during the course, you’ll receive a digital Bronze Award certificate. This is nationally recognised and can also be used to progress to the Silver NNAS Award.

Assessment is informal and continuous across both days. It’s not a written exam; instead, the instructor observes your ability to apply navigation skills during the practical sessions, offering feedback and support throughout.

The course involves walking for most of the day, usually over uneven ground and open moorland, but it’s not designed to be physically challenging. You’ll be moving at a comfortable pace with regular stops to discuss techniques and check progress.

Participants should be able to walk for up to five hours in a day, but we allow plenty of time for breaks and route choices are tailored to suit the group. You don’t need to be an athlete—just reasonably fit and comfortable outdoors for a full day.

Dartmoor weather can be changeable, so the course goes ahead in most conditions, including wind and rain. In fact, learning to navigate in varied weather is an important part of becoming a capable walker.

That said, if the conditions are unsafe—such as severe storms, strong winds or heavy fog—the course may be adapted or postponed. We’ll always prioritise safety and will contact you with updates if weather could affect the day’s plan.

Accommodation is not included as part of the course, so you’ll need to arrange your own if you're staying overnight. The course is non-residential, and most participants either travel in each day or book local accommodation nearby.

There are plenty of options in and around Dartmoor, including B&Bs, guest houses, campsites, and small hotels. If you'd like recommendations based on the course location, we’re happy to suggest some convenient places to stay once your booking is confirmed.