How to use a compass with Simon King and Ordnance Survey

This page provides guidance on how to use a compass.

Ordnance Survey and the Ramblers

The Ordnance Survey (OS) is the national mapping agency for Great Britain. It produces detailed maps of the country, which are essential for walkers and hikers. The Ramblers is a charity that works to protect the walking environment and to encourage walking. The OS and the Ramblers have a long-standing relationship, and the OS provides a range of resources to help walkers plan their routes and stay safe.

About Simon King

Simon King is a renowned wildlife cameraman and presenter. He is also a keen walker and has presented programmes on walking and the outdoors. He has worked with the Ordnance Survey to produce a series of guides on how to use a compass.

Using a compass

A compass is a vital tool for any walker. It can help you to:

Navigate: Determine your direction of travel and ensure you are heading in the right direction.
Map reading: Orient your map to the ground, allowing you to identify your location and surrounding features.
Safety: Find your way back if you become lost.

Here are some basic steps on how to use a compass:

Hold the compass flat: Ensure the needle can spin freely.
Identify North: The red end of the needle will point to magnetic North.
Use the orienting line: Align the orienting line on the compass baseplate with the North-South grid lines on your map.
Set a bearing: Rotate the compass housing until the desired bearing is indicated by the pointer.
Follow the bearing: Hold the compass in front of you and turn your body until the red end of the needle is inside the orienting arrow. The direction of travel arrow on the baseplate will now point in the direction you need to walk.

Further resources

Simon King's guides are also available to watch online, offering practical demonstrations and expert tips.

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