Name: Beginners Navigation Workshop
Start: 2025-12-13T10:00:00+00:00
End: 2025-12-13T15:00:00+00:00
Location: Whitewell Bottom Community Centre

Here at Abigail’s Trails we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the benefit of mental and physical health that being in nature can bring. Our main aim is to assist people in exploring the great outdoors safely, confidently and respectfully.
If you feel you lack the skills, knowledge and experience to head out and start exploring the Rossendale Valley and beyond, then this Beginners Navigation workshop will give you the core skills and confidence required.
Our navigation courses are all delivered by Abi, a qualified Geography Teacher / Mountain Leader / National Navigation Award Scheme Tutor, with a wealth of experience and knowledge.
This workshop is aimed specifically at those completely new to hill walking, so absolutely no experience will be necessary, but you should have a good general level of fitness. On this course you will learn the important basic skills you need to get started with a map and compass, in a small, friendly and relaxed group setting. Each course will have a maximum of 8 and a minimum of 3 participants.
The course is delivered at a comfortable pace, so you can develop your confidence in hill walking and navigation without stress! The workshop is approx. 5 hours long and begins with an indoor, skills-based teaching session of 2 hours. We will then venture out onto the surrounding countryside to practice and refine your map reading skills. Total walking distance will be approx. 2.5 miles.
You will learn about:
• Different types of maps.
• Map symbols on an OS map.
• Orientating the map with and without a compass.
• Using scale to measure distance and estimate how long a walk will take (Timing cards are included).
• Choose simple navigation strategies and routes.
• Following the Countryside Code.
• What to do in an emergency.
Tea / Coffee and biscuits will also be provided before we head outdoors. Maps and Compasses are provided for the duration of the course. You will need sturdy walking boots/shoes and outdoor clothing suitable for the weather.
Children (aged 11+) welcome.