Night navigation skills for beginners
in kent
Map reading
Learn to use a map and compass after dark and discover a whole new side to navigation
About This Navigation Course
Join Boots On Adventures for a fun, practical and informative 4-hour Night Navigation for Beginners session exploring the countryside around Faversham.
You don’t need to be an experienced navigator. We’ll start with the basics, showing you how to read a map, understand what you’re seeing around you and use a compass. Then, as darkness falls, we’ll put those skills into practice and see how different navigation becomes when you can’t rely on daylight.
Paths that seem obvious during the day can look very different at night. Landmarks become harder to spot, distances can feel different and suddenly that little red arrow on your compass becomes very important!
We’ll learn together as a group, with plenty of opportunities to have a go, ask questions and practise the skills along the way. There’ll be useful tips, practical challenges, a bit of problem-solving and, hopefully, plenty of laughs too.
By the end of the evening, you’ll understand the basics of map and compass navigation and have experienced what it’s like to use those skills after dark.
The details about Navigation Skills for Beginners
the details
Whats Included
Schedule
Dates: Various Dates
Cost: £45
Time: 5pm
Outdoor Educator: Ian Henderson
Location
Where: Faversham Recreation Ground, Park Road, Faversham, ME13 8EU
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Car Parking: Parking charges not icluded – although free at the time of writing
- Ordnance survey maps
- Compasses
- experienced, suportive instruction
- small group coaching (max 6 people)
What to bring
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended)
- Sturdy footwear suitable for uneven ground
- Water and snacks
- Any personal medication
- Optional: your own compass
- Head torch and spare batteries
What You’ll Learn
During this outdoor navigation session, you will learn:
- How navigating at night differs from navigating in daylight
- How to orientate and use an OS map in darkness
- Using a compass to take and follow bearings
- Recognising features on the ground when visibility is limited
- How to use your headtorch effectively while navigating
Who This Session Is For?
This navigation course is ideal for:
- Complete beginners who want to learn how to navigate
- Walkers who want to become more confident finding their way
- Anyone who would like to learn a useful outdoor skill in a fun environment
- People preparing for hiking, long distance trails or camping trips
- Anyone who wants to experience the countryside after dark!
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Why Choose Boots On Adventures?:
- Boots On Adventures specialises in helping beginners build confidence outdoors.
- Small group sizes for personalised support
- Hands-on, practical teaching approach
- Relaxed and supportive environment
- Real outdoor learning—not classroom-based
- Focus on confidence as well as skills
Explore the Kent countryside
These sessions take place in the beautiful countryside around Faversham, offering a mix of open fields, footpaths, and natural features—ideal for learning night navigation in a real-world setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any experience?
No—this session is designed specifically for beginners. However if you have already attended one of our Navigation Skills for Beginners courses, this is a great next step.
Is the walk difficult?
No, the pace is relaxed with regular stops for learning and discussion.
I’ve never navigated at night before. Is that a problem?
Not at all. That’s exactly why we’re doing it! We’ll introduce you to the differences between day and night navigation and guide you throughout the evening.
Do I need my own map or compass?
No. Maps and compasses are provided. If you already own your own compass or OS map, you’re welcome to bring them along.
Do I need a headtorch?
Yes. A headtorch is essential for this session. Please also bring spare batteries or a backup light.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The session will go ahead in most weather conditions unless conditions make it unsafe. Remember, this is October – so come prepared for autumn weather!
Important information
- Cancellation policy states: Full payment becomes due if a person cancels within 7 days of the activity. Any person cancelling outside of the 7 days will receive a credit available to use within 90 days. Cancel at least 7 days before the event to receive a credit note for a future activity, valid for 90 days.
- We take photos during our walks for promotional and training purposes. If you prefer not to be included, just let us know on the day.
DAY WALKS
Cancellations made 4 days prior to the event will be given a credit note for a future walk that has to be used within 90 days.
EVENTS
- If we have to cancel the event for any reason – Full refund.
- If you cancel before 2 month of the event – Full refund minus deposit (if applicable)
- If you cancel between 2 month and 1 month of the event – 50% refund minus deposit (if applicable)
- If you cancel within 30 days of the event – NO refund will be given