Build real map and compass confidence in the Peak District.
Our courses are built around The 5 D’s of Navigation Distance, Direction, Duration, Description, Danger the proven framework for staying safe and self-reliant on the hills.
Whether you’re new to navigation, ready for off-path adventures, or leading groups, we teach practical skills that work in any weather. Small groups (max 6 people) for hands-on coaching.
Led by Martin (Compass ) and Chris (Clogs ) with over 70 years combined experience, with Martin a former instructor at the Ultimate Navigation School, and a trainer of Ordnance Survey Champions.
All courses take place in the Peak District area. We run them most weekends contact us for 2026 dates and pricing.
Join us on a Course
Beginner Navigation Course – Foundations of Safe Navigation:
Start with a gentle, scenic route around Ladybower Reservoirs (building on our popular guided walk). You’ll use real OS 1:25,000 or Harvey maps and a basic compass while putting the 5 D’s into practice on easy paths. By the end, you’ll plan and walk your own short route confidently..
Peak District
Distance: 11km
Ascent: 256m
Difficulty: Easy
What you’ll learn:
- Choosing and understanding maps (grid lines, scale, symbols)
- The 5 D’s explained and applied simply
- Orienting the map and basic compass use (Silva-style)
- Distance: measuring with grid squares or string method
- Direction: setting the map to north, spotting obvious features
- Duration: basic time estimates + intro to Naismith’s rule
- Description: handrails (paths/walls) and tick points (streams/fences)
- Danger: simple hazard spotting and weather awareness
For those who would like to extend the day, there is a lovely pub nearby called the Yorkshire Bridge where we can enjoy lunch and a drink together.
Event Information:
Meeting Point: Roadside parking just before Visitor centre
Meeting Time: 08.30 for a 08.45 start.
Walk Description: This scenic walk explores the beautifuly Ladybower Reservoir and surrounding hills. We begin with a gentle wander around the reservoir before climbing gradually to Whinstone Lee Tor for excellent views across the Upper Dewnt Valley. The route then continues around past the famous Dewent Dam, known for its connection with the Dambusters training flights.
Perfect first step before tackling bigger hills.
Advanced Navigation Course Mastering Off-Path Navigation:
Based around Bleaklow and the Dark Peak plateaus (links to our aircraft wreck walk). You’ll gain the skills to navigate safely without paths – using pacing, bearings, and contours even in mist or low light.
Peak District
Distance: 13km
Ascent: 450m
Difficulty: Medium
What you’ll learn:
- Review a deeper application of the 5 D’s
- Advanced distance: precise pacing (100m counts), adjustments for bog/wind/weight
- Direction: full bearings, back-bearings, triangulation for fixes
- Duration: complete Naismith’s rule (e.g., +1 min per 10m climb) with real-world tweaks
- Description: contour reading, attack points, collecting/catching features
- Danger: risk assessment, escape routes, decision points, when to turn back
- Low visibility/night tips plus GPS as backup only (traditional skills first)
There is a nice local pub nearby (the Queens Arms) for lunch and a drink afterwards for those that wish to extend their visit.
Event Information:
Meeting Point: Parking next to bus terminus at Old Glossop, Shepley Street, SK13 7PY
Meeting Time: 08.30 for a 08.45 start.
Walk Description: This adventurous guided walk explores the remote moorlands of Bleaklow, one of the most atmospheric areas of the Peak District . Starting near Old Glossop, we gradually climb onto this rugged landscape. Along the way there are views of the surrounding valleys.
Our destination is the B-29 Superfortress crash site, where the remains of the aircraft still lie scattered across the hillside.
Ideal for exploring Kinder, Bleaklow, or preparing for Scottish Mountains
Team Navigation Course – Group Leadership & Safe Navigation:
Using Dove Stone Reservoirs and surrounding moors (ties into our Dove Stone event). Learn to apply the 5 D’s as a team, brief others, share roles, and handle group challenges safely
Peak District
Distance: 9km
Ascent: 350m
Difficulty: Medium
Highlights:
- The 5 D’s adapted for groups (pace for slowest, shared timing)
- Leadership: briefing the plan, delegation (e.g., feature spotters, pacers)
- Safety: buddy systems, headcounts, visibility comms
- Teaching basics to others + common group pitfalls
- Team relocation if separated
- Optional corporate focus: wellbeing through navigation
- Includes a small scramble
- Optional pub lunch after walk
There is a nice local pub nearby (the Kingfisher, OL3 7AE) for lunch and a drink afterwards for those that wish to extend their visit.
Event Information:
Meeting Point: Meet at the Binn Green car park off the A635 road ( possible roadside parking available )
Meeting Time: 08.30 for a 08.45 start.
Walk Description: This gentle guided walk begins at Binn Green car park and takes us on a leisurely circit around the beautful Dove Stone Reservoir and onwards to Explore the Trinnacle, a striking rock outcropthe with stunning views over the surrounding landscape.
Great for families, clubs, or Mountain Rescue volunteers building skills.
Prepare for Your Walk:
Joining one of our walks or courses is simple, but being well prepared makes the experience safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable. This guide helps you get ready so you can focus fully on the journey.
What to Bring:
Comfortable backpack (20–35L for day walks).
Water (minimum 1–2 litres depending on weather and distance — essential) You may also bring additional drinks such as a soft drink or a hot flask in colder conditions.
Simple snacks or light food for energy.
Weather protection (light waterproof jacket and/or wind layer).
Spare socks (especially useful on longer walks).
Fully charged phone.
Optional: walking poles if you normally use them.
What to Wear:
Well-fitting walking shoes or trail shoes (broken in, not new).
No jeans or restrictive clothing.
Layered clothing for changing conditions.
Breathable base layers where possible.
Avoid heavy cotton where possible.
Dress for the weather, not just the start of the walk.
Cap, Hat , Gloves and Sunglasses.
Comfort and freedom of movement are essential. If clothing or footwear is not suitable, it can affect both safety and enjoyment of the walk.
Responsibility & Safety:
We guide the walk, but you are responsible for your own comfort, fitness level, and preparation. Weather and terrain can change quickly, and we adapt the route where needed.
We always carry first aid support on all walks. Martin is a fully qualified first aider.
If you have any medical conditions or concerns, please let us know before joining so we can advise you properly.
For safety reasons, Martin or Chris always have the final decision on the route, including when to adjust plans or turn back if conditions, weather, or group safety require it.
We may also decide on the day whether someone is suitable to join a walk or course based on footwear, clothing, fitness level, or weather conditions. This is purely for safety and to ensure everyone has the right experience on the day.
Mindset for the Walk:
These walks are not about speed or performance. They are about steady movement, awareness, and enjoying the landscape at a natural pace.
There is no rush. No competition. Just the path in front of you.
You don’t need to be the fastest walker. You just need to start walking.
Why Choose PositiveOutdoor365 Navigation Courses?
– Peak District-based no long drives
– Small groups, personalised coaching
– Real skills from Martin who trained Ordnance Survey Champions
– Emphasis on self-reliance and avoiding Mountain Rescue calls
Next steps
Choose your level, then Contact us. We’ll get back to you ASAP with available dates, exact pricing, and booking details
We also support mental health charity Mind and trail conservation project Fix the Fells.
2026