Map and Compass: Walk your own way

Before the walk

 

What to wear

Our weather is fickle and we can experience 4 seasons in a day in the hills, even in the Pennines. Wear layers of clothing that you can add or subtract as needed. Specialist hiking gear is not always necessary and doesn't have to cost a fortune. Think comfort.

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Footwear

Footwear needs to be worn in and sturdy. If your boots are new then bring blister plasters such as Compeed because blisters are common with new boots. Boots are better than shoes because the terrain will be uneven, possibly muddy, boggy, wet.

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Mid layers

Wool other than merino wool is heavy when wet and cotton including denim is heavy and cold when wet.

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Top layers

A waterproof jacket and trousers are advisable whatever the weather is doing when you get up! Some jackets now have magnets for the closures, these should be avoided at all costs because the magnet will cause your compass to fail.

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Cold days

Bring a hat, neck warmer and gloves. If you are a naturally cool person bring more layers. Spares are a good idea when it is very wet, cold or windy.

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Sunny days

If there's the prospect of a sunny day, bring sun cream and a hat to keep the sun off. 

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We aim to go out whatever the weather, providing it's not actually shut the roads to our start points.

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What to bring

Food and drink

Something to eat if you are out for the a whole day, some snacks for a half day.

Walking is energetic exercise and you will need to drink and stay hydrated. Lack of hydration can lead to poor decision making so this is a must. Hot drinks are good when it's cold.

Some of our days are quite long and we may not always be near a cafe so please come prepared with food and drink.

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Kit

Ordnance Survey Explorer map

Baseplate compass such as the Silva Expedition 4.

If you don't have either of these, let us know so we can bring supplies.

Watch or stopwatch for timing.

A small rucksack to put it all in plus anything else you may need for your personal care or comfort.

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Night walk and NNAS Silver Assessment

Headlamp

Whistle

 

Checklist

OS Explorer map either laminated or in a waterproof case

Baseplate compass marked in degrees (e.g Silva Expedition 4)

Watch or stopwatch

Baselayer top

Baselayer bottoms

Mid layer fleece or merino

Top layer fleece or soft shell

Waterproof jacket

Waterproof trousers

Walking boots

Hat + spares

Buff

Gloves + spares

Personal first aid

Sun protection

Food

Energy snacks

Water

Hot drink

Headlamp 

Whistle

Small rucksack

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Who is the walk for?

All clients must be over 18 years of age unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

If you feel you are up to a day or half day in the hills then we will be happy to accommodate you. If you have any particular medical or other concerns then do talk to us beforehand. We are both qualified first aiders but we would much rather know if you have a dodgy knee or fear of heights in advance so that we can tailor appropriately. 

 

Insurance

Map and Compass has full public liability insurance. Our sessions do not include any personal accident, cancellation, third party liability or personal insurance. Map and Compass recommend that you have your own cover. Map and Compass will accept no responsibility whatsoever in respect of loss or damage to personal property.