An experienced Lake District fell-walker should never be without map. It is important to obtain high-quality maps and to learn how to read and interpret them. Most walkers use a combination of different maps most commonly Ordnance Survey (OS) maps in two main scales.
The Landranger 1:50 000 series has a scale of 1 1/4 inches to the mile and are useful for general route planning as they show footpaths, bridleways, farms and cover the whole country.
The second set of maps, the 1:25 000 Explorer series with a scale of 2 1/2 inches to the mile cover recreational areas such as the Lakes. They show field boundaries, rescue points, carparks and gates and are useful for serious walkers.
Maps are an essential part of any ramblers kit - it is recommended that up-to-date versions are purchased at least every year as routes can change quickly.
