This was and still is to a certain degree one of my weak points, I’ve not had much experience with map & compass reading or navigation using a handheld GPS unit.

Im sure somewhere deep in the unused part of the human brain we have a natural ability for basic navigation, perhaps it lays dormant within our subconscious memory of landmarks, or the position of the  sun, stars, and even the earths  magnetic fields, but I’m not going to rely on that theory!

So last year (2013) a couple of weekends with GPS training was required if I wanted to navigate myself across the Amazon with a reasonable level of competence.

I purchased a Silva Compass and a Garmin GPS unit and headed for the stunning Lake District.
I spent 2 days in the Lake District Easter 2013, a brilliant location for navigation training and walking. Then two more days in the Cotswolds in August 2013 an equally stunning part of the UK.
From learning about basic map and compass, understanding the legends and topography of maps to Geosynchronous satellite systems, magnetic declination,  and use  of Garmin’s excellent  Basecamp software with route planning, waypoints etc.

I also tried to also appreciate the scenery and not to just keep looking down at the GPS unit!

For everything GPS navigation these guys know their stuff inside and out!

Thanks to Peter, Andy and John at GPS training for all your expert tuition and advice.

Heading for them there hills. Lake District April 2013

Penrith station, gateway to the Lake District