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Questions and Answers
What was the author's earliest memory of learning to use a map?
Being shown how to use an Ordnance Survey map by a family member at the age of eight.
What is the main difference between paper maps and GPS receivers, according to Hugh Westacott?
Paper maps provide a bigger picture, while GPS receivers have a limited screen.
What is the purpose of the Ordnance Survey's men in the field?
To conduct laborious legwork and meticulous measuring to gather data for the maps.
What is the name of the most popular Ordnance Survey map among true devotees?
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How long did a cartographer's training take?
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What is the advice given to surveyors when collecting information from local residents?
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How long has the Ordnance Survey been mapping lives?
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What was special about creating an outdoor leisure map?
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What can you find on an Ordnance Survey map?
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What is special about Ordnance Survey maps according to the public?
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Where can you usually find an OS map?
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What is the Ordnance Survey known for?
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Study Notes
History of Ordnance Survey
- The Ordnance Survey has been mapping the UK for over 200 years.
- During its long history, the OS has produced billions of maps.
Importance of Ordnance Survey Maps
- OS maps are trusted guides for generations of holiday-makers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- They are absolutely reliable and show all off-the-highway routes.
- OS maps are essential for walkers and ramblers, providing information on public footpaths, public bridleways, and non-Tarmac routes.
Personal Experiences with Ordnance Survey Maps
- One person's earliest memory is being taught how to use an OS map to decipher symbols and translate them into an image of the landscape.
- Another person, Hugh Westacott, has used OS maps for over 70 years and has relied on them for his walks, including from Land's End to Fort William.
Features of Ordnance Survey Maps
- OS maps are known for their clarity and precision, with a harmonious set of colours that provide a lot of help when using the map.
- The 1 to 50, 000 scale Landranger map is a favourite among OS map enthusiasts.
- Many OS maps were drawn by hand, with cartographers requiring up to a year of training.
Mapping Process
- The OS mapping process involves laborious legwork and meticulous measuring done by surveyors in the field.
- Surveyors mark starting points for side roads, check the positions of fences and house fronts, and gather information on place names.
- The OS has strict guidelines for gathering information, including not relying on the accounts of local labourers or common people.
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Description
Explore the history of the Ordnance Survey, which has been mapping lives in the UK for over 200 years, producing billions of maps.
