Dunwich Map Reading Course and Walk – Sunday 5th May

Text contributed by Angela; pic by Bob

Seven of us enjoyed a varied 12-kilometre circular walk starting from Dunwich beach car park, led by Bob, whilst developing our navigational skills and confidence in using OS maps and compasses. We learnt how to identify key features on maps, interpret contour lines, and understand different types of tracks and paths including open access land. We practised pacing to work out how long it would take to walk a given distance and how to cope with those pesky locations on the edge of the map. We learnt about working out grid references in case we need to call the emergency services in future. We were also set some individual navigational challenges and rose to the occasion, whilst enjoying a varied landscape of woodland, heathland and coastal paths.

We stopped for a well earned lunch break at the Coastguards Cottages cafe before winding our way back to the starting point via a section of the Sandlings Way, passing the ruins of the Franciscan Priory on our left and the perilous cliff edge to the east before descending back to Dunwich village for a final well-earned drink at the Ship Inn.

Thanks to Bob for sharing his wealth of expertise and leading the walk.