Our Story

With you every step of the way

“We smile more when we are outside. It's good for us too; engaging with nature is scientifically proven to be beneficial to your body mind and soul.

Our passion is making outdoor activity accessible for everyone; our mission is to help more people to get outside more often.”

Nick Giles, OBE, MD Consumer

Planning to get outside?

Let us help. We are experts in navigation and mapping, with a passion for adventures of all kinds.

We focus on: Navigation | Location | Education | Inspiration

A woman unfolding a large paper map in the wind

It’s been 225 years since OS was founded and 215 years since we published our first map

Navigation, location, Education, Inpiration

Mapping the Nation since 1791

The first Ordnance Survey maps were sold to the public in the early 1800s and have been used for exploring our beautiful landscapes ever since.

We opened our online shop in the early 2000s to deliver a range of outdoor products and services to those looking to enjoy being in nature safely and comfortably. Initially offering just our Landranger and Explorer maps we have now expanded our trusted brand to offer:

In 2015 we launched our digital mapping range and today you will also find our multi-award-winning navigation app, OS Maps. Trusted by the pros, OS Maps makes planning routes, navigating and exploring easier and more reliable than ever.

Our blog, Get Outside, is your go-to source for exciting new adventures, advice, and inspiration. Join our intrepid OS Champions, knowledgeable team, and many more outdoor industry experts who all love exploring with Ordnance Survey!

A group of people using the OS Maps app on a mobile and a paper map to plan a route

Get lost with us!

We lead the way in navigation thanks to our heritage in detailed and accurate mapping.

Our Paper and Digital Maps, along with our trusted map reading resources help people navigate the outdoors with confidence.

The OS Shop is home to unique navigation products:

All to help with your adventure, your way!

A person holding a customised map with their face on the cover

Location, Location, Location!

Using our rich history in cartography and geospatial data, we are the experts in all things location.

Whether it's a National Park or a remote island, we have what you need to plan and explore.

Personalised maps allow you to choose your location area then customise with your photos and messages. Perfect as an adventure planning tool or a unique gift to help remember special moments in the outdoors.

Two walkers checking a walking guidebook

Love walking and hiking? So do we!

Ordnance Survey is the leading publisher of UK walking guide books, perfect for walkers and hikers of all ages and skill levels.

Explore new locations and adventurous routes with our renowned Pathfinder Guides.

If you're planning a family outing, try our new range of Short Walks Made Easy.

A person jumping btween rocks next to the sea

Get inspired and GetOutside

Our commitment to encouraging outdoor exploration begins at home.

From gear guides and map reading tips to picnic inspiration and wellbeing blogs let our experts inspire your next adventure.

So, get inspired, explore new places and go on an adventure!

Meet our outdoor Champions!

Our champions inspire everyone, from every walk of life, to get outside in a safe and accessible way.

Since 2015 we’ve welcomed 150 advocates from across the nation including some well-known explorers like Ben Fogle and Kenton Cool

They showcase the best of Britain’s outdoors with their inspiring stories and expert advice to help you get outside.

Master Map Reading!

Ever wondered what contour lines are? Curious about using a basic compass? Our comprehensive collection of beginner and advanced map reading guides will give you the skills you need.

At Ordnance Survey, we inspire adventurers of all ages to explore the great outdoors, discover hidden gems, and create lasting memories. With our map reading tutorials and advice, you can learn to navigate beyond the beaten path and confidently explore new places.

Learn how to read a map

Collaboration and Partners

We also collaborate with leading outdoor industry experts. Together we aim to inspire and educate so everyone can get the best advice for any adventure.

We are Award Winning

2023 The Great Outdoors Walkers App of the year. Britain’s most popular outdoor navigation app was voted the winner of the ‘Walkers' App of the Year’ category for the seventh consecutive time: 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017