UKC

hi, very new to this site. I’m looking for some areas of UK (I’m based in Sevenoaks, Kent but can travel) where I can practice looking at contours and features and match them to a map - I’m building up my skills slowly. Any routes or areas where I can clearly match valleys, gulleys, saddles, etc to what is on a map. Hope that makes sense any help appreciated 

Hi, I'd say get out on the south downs to begin with. Find an area with a couple of distinctly shaped hills. Then with the map use it to relate what you can see to the paper. In a rural area you have the added benefit of buildings and churches to help confirm on the map. Do this on any walk you go on and eventually you'll get quicker at identifying the hills.

The Hillwalking book that you can pick up from the BMC shop or most outdoor shops is very good at explaining contours and how to visualise them in 3D.

Then get out on bigger and more remote at areas and continue to develop your new skills.

Yes, agree with Jungle about using the South Downs. North Downs also good for a bit of variety. Coastal paths heading towards the south west. For more navigational challenge you could visit Exmoor / Dartmoor. Brecon Beacons are a beautiful area.

     Then there are the Rhinogs, Arans and Cadair areas. Peak district has lots of lovely walking. Have a look on UK Hillwalking for route ideas and more information. Finally there are the more mountainous areas such as North Wales, Lake District and Scotland .

In the first instance I would suggest Knole Park. Stand on top of Echo Mount, if possible walk down the ridge to the south.

Fab thanks Mark 

Thanks very much 👍

Great thanks for response 

If you're looking for an easy and fun way to improve your navigation (including an understanding of contours) considering trying out orienteering and possibly joining your local club. 

Your local club is the Saxons Orienteering Club (https://www.saxons-oc.org) and, from a quick look at their website, appear to be quite active with a few upcoming events just outside of Sevenoaks. Events are well worth going to as there is usually a wider range of courses, and higher quality and therefore more fun, than most permanent orienteering courses that you might come across. There are also people there who will be more than willing to show you the basic and who can help you figure out how to improve the next time.

Orienteering doesn't take too long, doesn't need any specialist equipment except a compass to begin with and you won't have to travel too far. It can easily be a half-day or evening activity. These days more are more mountain navigation is taught through the medium of orienteering as it allows quick feedback and the opportunity to practise a lot of skills in a short amount of time. Instead of travelling 10 minutes before something significant changes on the map, you're making a few navigation decisions every minute. The maps are much more detailed, and the way the sport is coached is all about building confidence.

Orienteering is a running sport, but it's incredibly welcoming and if you say you only want to walk around no one will blink an eye.

Hope this helps,
Mehmet