AN INTRODUCTION TO NAVIGATION - BEGINNERS' WORKSHOP
BOOK NOW FOR SEPTEMBER 2025
FRIDAY 12th to SUNDAY 14th
The Moors to Mountains Introductory Navigation Workshop that took place across April, May and June in the West Pennine Moors, the Lake District and Peak Peak District received a lot of interest. Several enquiries were received from individuals wanting to get out on the hill and improve or even start to learn the very basics of map reading, compass use, route planning and basic relocation skills.
In response to this demand, I have decided to re-format the course and offer new dates in September to take place in the West Pennine Moors.
The workshop sessions are entirely my own content with an itinerary that is intended to provide a springboard for those with little to no navigation experience and open up a path to feeling more confident when on solo or group treks in the great outdoors.
Limited to 6 PARTICIPANTS, 2026 price £149.00 per person.
SEPTEMBER OFFER - £129.00 PER PERSON
HOW'S IT GOING TO OPERATE?
The workshop is formatted as a weekend course set in the West Pennine Moors over varied terrain to provide the best opportunity to develop and practice skills.
A short theory session of around two hours will be held on the evening of Friday 12th September at a suitable venue TBC in the Bolton area. All participants will be expected to attend this class but if travel to the area is a consideration, please contact me before booking to discuss options.
Additional remote support material will be provided.
Saturday 13th is a full day out on the isolated moors around Anglezarke and Belmont. The session will start and finish at the Black Dog Inn, Belmont Village.
Sunday 14th will begin at Turton Tower Woodland Cafe where a short route planning session will be held before heading out on the moors above Turton and Egerton.
Participants should have their own compass, map case and a OS Explorer 287 West Pennine Moors map.
WHAT AREAS WILL BE COVERED?
Interpreting map symbols and appropriate use of different map scales.
Combining skills to develop sound route finding technique, such as recognising and following handrail features, recognising and utilising collecting and catchment features, using a compass bearing over short distances where paths are not present.
Relocation and navigation using contour interpretation and prominent features on the map at different scales.
How to measure distance on the map at different scales using a compass romer. How to measure distance on the ground using pacing, timing* and aforementioned route finding skills.
Using grid references at different scales.
Route cards and accurate route planning strategy.
Limited to 6 PARTICIPANTS, 2026 price £149.00 per person.
SEPTEMBER OFFER - £129.00 PER PERSON
BEFORE YOU SIGN YOURSELF UP
Participants can expect a lot of discussion and explanation that may involve standing outside for extended periods.
A slow to moderate pace will be maintained across the course of the day BUT it should be noted that a basic level of hill fitness is required to take part due to the nature of the terrain. Each practical outdoor session will involve up to 8 hours outside, including sections of uneven moorland, bog and hillside slopes.
Groups will be limited to 6 PARTICIPANTS to ensure my full attention and time for everybody in attendance, and the best possible learning experience.
This activity requires sturdy footwear with stiff soles NOT hiking trainers, approach shoes or trail shoes. The Navigation Workshop is not suitable for dogs to attend. Children and young people over the age of 14 are welcome to attend with a parent or guardian.
The course is structured with a range of information and I want all to go home feeling having learned a new valuable skill set, and feeling that the experience was worth the price that was paid.
Limited to 6 PARTICIPANTS, 2026 price £149.00 per person. SEPTEMBER OFFER - £129.00 PER PERSON
Upon booking a space, please don't overlook the Footwear, Clothing and Equipment Requirements.
It is imperative to wear clothing that is suitable for both the activity and the time of year. Weather conditions can change very quicky while out and about in the hills. All participants must wear sturdy footwear and arrive to the activity with all other items listed under Moors to Mountains Footwear, Clothing and Equipment Requirements (please click link to view).
Once a place has been booked on any activity.
I will personally contact each client by email with any relevant information to the specific activity. There will also be a
link to a Participation Consent Form that should be completed in good time before any activity takes place. This will
ask for important medical information, important contact details and also request consent for me to give first aid
where necessary, take any photographs (or not) and anything else relevant.
Cheers, COLIN.
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
Please fill in this simple form and I can make sure you get priority notification via email with any course updates and details of when booking will go live.
Should you have any specific enquires about the Navigation Workshop, you can email me directly any time at moorstomountains@gmail.com.
It is also possible to conduct one-to-one navigation tuition sessions in the West Pennine Moors, the Lake District or the Peak District. I am happy to discuss your needs and provide a tailored package to suit.