Channel Title: The Map Reading Company Channel Description: Map reading, Land Nav & Compass use are what we specialise in. FULLY qualified instructors offer everything from entry level advice up to advanced techniques on as many topics as we have time to create the videos for. As you can probably tell from our videos we’re a small company which runs training courses in map reading, compass work and navigation, in every corner of England. It would be great if you’d like to subscribe to the channel so that you’ll be informed when we publish new videos. Click the link to subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMapReadingCompany?sub_confirmation=1 Or, it would be even better if you would kindly join the channel as a member. Click the link to see the benefits of joining the channel. https://www.youtube.com/@TheMapReadingCompany/join If you have any comments on our videos please post them as we read all them all, even if we can’t respond to each viewer individually. <video> Cow Jam Description: OK, our traffic problems are slightly different. On my way to work and the traffic is gridlocked </video> <video> We all get lost occasionally - Happy New Year Description: Anyone who goes out into the hills will, occasionally, become navigationally challenged. So.....… let us know in the comments where your most silly place to become momentarily lost. Oh and I ask this as I really didn’t know how to find the Eiffel Tower a few days ago – why? Well it was behind a Christmas tree and, even though I knew it was nearby, I just couldn’t find it. Yeah I know !!! My family will never let me forget that one. </video> <video> I don't need a map - I have a GPS Description: In an age where GPS and smartphones seem to guide us everywhere, is learning to use a map and compass just an outdated skill? Join me, a full-time land navigation instructor, as I tackle this question head-on and explore why these traditional skills might still matter for anyone venturing into the hills. Many dismiss map reading as a relic of the past—after all, why bother when your phone does it all? But here’s the twist: even with the best GPS or mapping app, you still need to know how to read a map. Without those foundational skills, the tech is just a screen full of confusing symbols and lines. This video isn’t about scare tactics like “What if your battery dies?” or “What if you lose your phone?” Instead, we’ll dive into the real benefits of traditional navigation: gaining independence, understanding the terrain, and making decisions based on your unique situation—not a computer’s algorithm. Plus, let’s not forget—it’s pretty cool to master a skill that feels like a superpower! Whether you’re avoiding slippery ridges in bad weather or simply enjoying the confidence of knowing where you are, navigating with a map and compass offers control and adventure no GPS can match. Ready to explore the balance between tech and tradition? Hit play and decide if learning to navigate is the next step in your outdoor journey! </video> <video> Route Plans - a different approach Description: Rethink your route planning with a fresh approach: instead of following lines, you can navigate through a flexible series of points, making your hike adaptable and safer. In this video we’ll look into why point-based planning is better for overcoming obstacles like unexpected gates, rough terrain, and fast-flowing rivers. Whether you’re a novice, intermediate, or advanced navigator, this method helps you stay on course by focusing on each point as a new start, asking “Which way do I go from here?” for ultimate flexibility. Oh and please always remember leave a copy of your route plan with someone who is not out walking with you. </video> <video> What are Harvey Maps Description: Harvey Maps produce specialised maps for outdoor activities like hiking and climbing. They're known for their user-friendly design and differ significantly from OS maps in style, purpose, and content. Unlike the OS, which serves a broad range of users such as urban planners and utility providers, Harvey Maps are tailored specifically for outdoor enthusiasts. They emphasize clarity by focusing on relevant features like paths, peaks, and huts while omitting extraneous details like political boundaries. This approach makes their maps less cluttered and easier to use for navigation. Harvey Maps also employ a distinct use of colours and shading. For instance, farmland is shaded light green, with variations indicating grassland or crops, while altitude bands are represented by different colours, helping users visualize terrain easily. Additionally, they utilize intuitive icons (e.g., a tent for campsites) and some abstract symbols, requiring users to familiarize themselves with their style for effective use. While OS maps, such as the Landranger series, include outdoor features, they retain many irrelevant details due to government constraints. In contrast, Harvey Maps' private status allows for a streamlined design aimed exclusively at outdoor navigation. One drawback noted by some users is the partially text-heavy reverse side of Harvey’s double-sided maps. Despite this, mastering their unique style can significantly enhance navigation skills, making them a valuable tool for outdoor enthusiasts. The RMS Trent: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trent_Affair Ribblehead Viaduct: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ribblehead_Viaduct </video> <video> Almost a war. USA vs Great Britain. Description: The history is almost forgotten, but a war between USA and Great Britain was only just averted and there is a surprising link to the Ribblehead Viaduct in Yorkshire, UK. The viaduct’s builders lived in camps, including one named Sebastopol after a Crimean War siege. Some engineers had served there, returning on the RMS Trent, a ship that almost caused a U.S.-UK war during the American Civil War (1861–65). In 1861, two Confederate envoys, Mason and Slidell, boarded the RMS Trent for Europe. A Union warship intercepted them, illegally removing them from the neutral British ship. London, outraged, demanded their release and threatened military action. With Britain’s dominant navy and troops ready in Canada, Lincoln wisely freed the envoys—though he skipped the apology Britain sought. Crisis averted. So, next time you admire the Ribblehead Viaduct, think of its builders and how their ship, the RMS Trent, nearly dragged Britain into America’s Civil War. </video> <video> The end of GPS (Part 2) - Quantum Clocks & INS Description: Quantum Clocks are any essential addition to any Quantum navigation device. In this video we’ll look at the current situation with Inertial Navigation Systems and the challenges of using quantum technology for precise positioning and how quantum clocks solve these issues. If you missed Part 1, we covered how atoms help calculate movement and direction—check it out for a full understanding of inertial guidance systems. Here, we focus on two critical aspects: 1. Starting Position: Quantum Navigation needs an accurate starting point. We explain methods like manual entry using accurate maps, triangulation with LIDAR or radar, and even spacecraft navigation using stars. These techniques ensure pinpoint accuracy, no matter where you are. 2. Timing Precision: Even the smallest timing errors can disrupt navigation. Imagine flying an aircraft at 500 mph—being off by just one second could result in landing miles off course. That’s where quantum clocks come in. Using optical transitions in atoms, they outperform atomic clocks in precision. With their stability, quantum clocks are being tested in military applications like the UK Ministry of Defence’s trials on warships. Link to the video “what is the difference between a hill and a mountain” https://youtu.be/2EXFSN3Nv88 ############################### Here’s a step-by-step approach formatted with plain text and numbers only while still describing the logic so a reader can follow it: ________________________________________ Correct Watch (2 weeks): 1. Walking Details: o Speed: 1 mile per hour. o Time per interval: 15 minutes = 0.25 hours. o Direction change after each interval: 2 degrees. o Total travel time: 336 hours. o Number of intervals = 336/0.25=1344336 / 0.25 = 1344. 2. Northward and Eastward Movement: o For each interval:  Northward movement = 0.25×cos⁡(θ)0.25 \times \cos(\theta), where θ\theta is the cumulative direction.  Eastward movement = 0.25×sin⁡(θ)0.25 \times \sin(\theta), where θ\theta is the cumulative direction. 3. Add Up Movements: o Start at 0,00, 0 (north = 0, east = 0). o For each of the 1344 intervals:  Update north by adding 0.25×cos⁡(θ)0.25 \times \cos(\theta).  Update east by adding 0.25×sin⁡(θ)0.25 \times \sin(\theta).  Update θ\theta by adding 2 degrees. 4. Final Position: o The total northward and eastward movements give the final coordinates relative to the starting point. 5. Distance Back to Start: o Total distance back = square root of (total northward movement)2+(total eastward movement)2(\text{total northward movement})^2 + (\text{total eastward movement})^2. 6. Compass Bearing: o Bearing = angle such that (eastward movement)/(northward movement)(\text{eastward movement}) / (\text{northward movement}) defines the direction from the final position to the starting point. ________________________________________ Fast Watch (2 weeks): 1. Interval Adjustment: o New interval time: 14 minutes, 59.75 seconds = approximately 0.2499306 hours. o Number of intervals = 336/0.2499306≈1344.292336 / 0.2499306 \approx 1344.292. 2. Movement Calculation: o For each interval:  Northward movement = 0.2499306×cos⁡(θ)0.2499306 \times \cos(\theta), where θ\theta is the cumulative direction.  Eastward movement = 0.2499306×sin⁡(θ)0.2499306 \times \sin(\theta), where θ\theta is the cumulative direction. 3. Add Up Movements: o Start at 0,00, 0 (north = 0, east = 0). o For each of the 1344.292 intervals:  Update north by adding 0.2499306×cos⁡(θ)0.2499306 \times \cos(\theta).  Update east by adding 0.2499306×sin⁡(θ)0.2499306 \times \sin(\theta).  Update θ\theta by adding 2 degrees. 4. Final Position: o The total northward and eastward movements give the final coordinates relative to the starting point. 5. Distance Back to Start: o Total distance back = square root of (total northward movement)2+(total eastward movement)2(\text{total northward movement})^2 + (\text{total eastward movement})^2. 6. Compass Bearing: o Bearing = angle such that (eastward movement)/(northward movement)(\text{eastward movement}) / (\text{northward movement}) defines the direction from the final position to the starting point. </video> <video> Navigation Strategies Description: In land navigation, “strategy” is just a fancy way of describing how you plan to get from point A to point B. And let’s be real—there’s rarely one single method that works for an entire journey. Most of the time, you’ll mix and match different strategies depending on where you are and what’s in front of you. The navigation strategy you choose will depend on loads of factors—your skill level, weather conditions, the terrain, visibility, your group, the gear you’ve got, and even the time of day. It’s all about adapting to the situation. In this video, we’ll break down some of the most commonly used land navigation techniques, including: • Orienting a map • Collecting and catching features • Terrain association (or recognising features) • Interpreting contour lines • Using slope aspect (the direction a slope faces) • Following a compass bearing • Timing and pacing Chances are, if you’ve spent time walking in the hills, you’re already using some of these methods—even if you don’t know their official names! This guide will help you refine your skills and give you a clearer understanding of how to use them to navigate like a pro. </video> <video> Why Isn’t Britain Just One Country Description: Have you ever wondered why this small island off the north-west coast of Europe isn’t just one country? When did it all start? In this video, I’ll share my take on the origins of England, Scotland, and Wales as we know them today. My answer? It all began in 937, over 1,000 years ago. Back in the 10th century, Britain was divided into competing kingdoms: • In the North: Alba (northern Scotland), led by King Constantine, and Strathclyde (southern Scotland, parts of northern England and Wales), ruled by King Owain. • Northern England: Controlled by Norse-descended Earls of Northumbria, based in York, and linked to the Norse Kingdom of Dublin under King Olaf Guthfrithson. • Central and Southern England: Ruled by King Athelstan, who united Wessex and Mercia but hadn’t yet formed “England.” Viking raids and settlements had challenged both the Anglo-Saxons and Celts for decades. By 928, Athelstan defeated the Earls of Northumbria, prompting King Constantine and others to form an alliance. The tension culminated in 937 at the Battle of Brunanburh (likely in the Wirral). This bloody conflict saw Athelstan’s Anglo-Saxon army decisively defeat the combined Celtic and Viking forces. This victory was pivotal: 1. It defined England’s borders, confining the Celts to Scotland and Wales. 2. It unified Wessex and Mercia into a single Kingdom of England. As for Scotland, its modern borders were largely established in 1018 after the Battle of Carham, where Alba and Strathclyde forces defeated the English. Wales’ borders have evolved gradually, starting with Offa’s Dyke in the 8th century, Edward I’s conquest in the 13th century, and the Acts of Union under Henry VIII. So, when did England begin? 937. Scotland followed in 1018, and Wales became formally integrated later on. Explore the fascinating origins of these nations and how history shaped the Britain we know today. </video> <video> Map Scales explained Description: In this video, I’m comparing different map scales —1:50,000, 1:40,000, and 1:25,000—to help you understand how to choose the right map scale for hiking, walking, and navigation. Starting with a clear explanation of what map scales mean, I’ll show how each scale changes the level of detail, from large-scale terrain features to specific details like paths, walls, and landmarks. I’ll be testing each map type on a route from Malham Tarn to Fountains Fell Tarn to see the differences firsthand. We’ll explore how the 1:50,000 map provides a broad view ideal for general navigation, the 1:25,000 map gives detailed features perfect for complex or precise navigation, and the 1:40,000 map offers a balanced view. Along the way, I’ll explain how to read map scales and why each scale might be better suited for different types of terrain or outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling to trekking in rugged areas. If you’re curious about how to navigate with maps of different scales or want tips on picking the best scale for your next outdoor adventure, this video will give you the answers! Links: Aiming Off video https://youtu.be/2eQlZlKRlLM Shake Holes video https://youtu.be/0g2jeP-jZoY </video> <video> The end of GPS (Part 1) - Quantum Navigation Description: Are we nearing the end of GPS? Not just yet. Currently, Quantum Navigation technology is bulky—about the size of a suitcase—and requires significant maintenance. This limits its use to large platforms like ships and trains. However, advancements in miniaturization may soon bring this revolutionary tech to silicon chips, paving the way for GPS-free navigation on phones and other devices. Quantum Navigation measures motion and location with extraordinary precision by cooling atoms with lasers to create a unique state of matter called a Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC). These atoms act like a "super-atom," allowing for precise calculations of position, acceleration, and direction without relying on satellite signals. The UK Ministry of Defence is already testing this ground-breaking technology aboard Royal Navy ships, hinting at its potential to replace GPS in the future. Imagine a world where navigation systems are immune to signal disruption, offering unparalleled accuracy anywhere on Earth. Will Quantum Navigation redefine how we find our way? Only time will tell. For now, GPS remains vital, but the future might hold something even better. </video> <video> Great and Small circle navigation Description: Here I’ll break down the concepts of Great Circles and Small Circles, key terms in navigation and geography. Using simple props—a pile of mud and a stick—I’ll demonstrate how the curvature of the Earth influences the shortest travel routes and why a straight line on a flat map isn’t always the shortest path on a globe and discover how Great Circles represent the shortest possible distance between two points on Earth. I’ll also explain how Small Circles differ, showing that they form shorter paths and don’t cut the globe into equal halves like Great Circles do. Plus, find out how map projections, like the Mercator projection, distort distances, making areas like Russia and Africa appear misleadingly sized. This video is perfect for anyone interested in navigation, geography, or understanding the science behind global travel routes. Whether you're a hiker, a sailor, or just love maps, this clear and practical explanation will enhance your knowledge of the Earth and its unique geometry. </video> <video> The man who invented time Description: "Inventing Time" might sound strange—how can someone invent something like time, which has existed since the universe began? But let’s dive into what we really mean by this. Before that, we need to define what we mean by "time" and "invention." Time, in simple terms, is the progression from the past to the future. We measure this progression using concepts like minutes, hours, and years, which help us quantify it. Now, as for invention, we usually think of it as something that didn’t exist until someone created it. But sometimes, inventions are about explaining things that were always there—like Darwin’s theory of evolution or Einstein’s theories of relativity. They didn’t create evolution or gravity, but they provided a framework to understand these phenomena. So, for this discussion, let’s say time is this progression, and an invention is an explanation that helps us understand something already existing. Now, let’s talk about James Hutton, who, in the 1700s, introduced a revolutionary idea: "Deep Time." Before him, the general belief was that Earth was only about 6,000 years old, based on Biblical chronology. Hutton, however, argued that the processes shaping the Earth—like rock formation and erosion—took far longer, perhaps millions or even billions of years. Hutton’s ideas were based on his observations of rock layers, particularly at a place now called Hutton's Unconformity in Scotland. He noticed that older layers of rock were often tilted and eroded before newer layers were deposited on top, suggesting a long and complex history. This was a key insight that led to the concept of "Deep Time," an understanding that Earth’s history spans an almost unimaginable length of time, far beyond the 6,000 years people previously believed. Hutton’s discovery wasn’t easy to accept back then because people struggled to grasp such vast time spans. But his work laid the groundwork for modern geology, changing our understanding of Earth's history forever. In a way, you could say he "invented" the concept of Deep Time, providing a new lens through which we view the age of the Earth. </video> <video> How to use a compass (9 languages) Description: Cómo utilizar un mapa y una brújula - मानचित्र और कंपास का उपयोग कैसे करें - Come utilizzare una mappa e una bussola - Wie man eine Karte und einen Kompass benutzt - Comment utiliser une carte et une boussole - Como usar um mapa e uma bússola - 地図とコンパスの使い方 - Cara menggunakan peta dan kompas - How to use a map and compass More languages (and videos) to follow - let's spread the word :-) </video> <video> Its not just Mud. There is ALWAYS something interesting nearby. Description: What may seem like ordinary mud is the beginning of an extraordinary transformation. Over thousands of years, layers of vegetation accumulate and compress, forming peat—a type of partially decomposed organic matter. Remarkably, it takes around 1,000 years to create just 1 meter of peat. This peat holds the story of all of recorded human history. Thousands of years ago, dense forests blanketed this landscape. Neolithic farmers began clearing these forests for crops and livestock. Over time, as the land became waterlogged, the layers of vegetation stopped decomposing fully, gradually forming peat. Given millions of years, and the right conditions of pressure and heat, these peat layers will transform into lignite (brown coal) and eventually into sub-bituminous coal. This coal, rich in hydrocarbons, could one day be mined, burned, and even used to boil water for a good cup of tea (a very British ending, after all). The next time you’re walking around the hills, take time to think about what is beneath your feet. Don't forget: There is ALWAYS something really interesting very near to where you are. </video>

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Description

Map reading, Land Nav & Compass use are what we specialise in. FULLY qualified instructors offer everything from entry level advice up to advanced techniques on as many topics as we have time to create the videos for.

As you can probably tell from our videos we’re a small company which runs training courses in map reading, compass work and navigation, in every corner of England.

It would be great if you’d like to subscribe to the channel so that you’ll be informed when we publish new videos.
Click the link to subscribe:
https://www.youtube.com/@TheMapReadingCompany?sub_confirmation=1

Or, it would be even better if you would kindly join the channel as a member.
Click the link to see the benefits of joining the channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@TheMapReadingCompany/join

If you have any comments on our videos please post them as we read all them all, even if we can’t respond to each viewer individually.

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