29 April 2008

An explorer’s way to discover the island

Outdoor enthusiasts on the Isle of Wight can now explore to their heart’s content – thanks to Ordnance Survey’s latest map revision.

The local OS Explorer Map has been updated and reissued – giving walkers, cyclists and other al fresco adventurers access to the most up-to-date leisure mapping of the area available.

At a scale of 1:25,000 (4 cm on the map equals 1 km on the ground) the level of detail includes every hamlet and village as well as roads, paths, field boundaries, copses and hill contours. Selected tourist and leisure information – such as the locations of pubs, visitor centres and cycle trails – is included, making the map ideal for outdoor activities or exploring.

This latest version includes updated tourist information – featuring new nature reserves, museums and changes to cycle routes. 

And, with information from Natural England (formerly the Countryside Agency), Ordnance Survey highlights ‘open access’ areas by using a yellow tint surrounded by an orange boundary. So ramblers can discover some of the most scenic parts of the region – previously closed to the public.

“I feel sure this new map will help families make the most of fresh walking activities,” says Ordnance Survey’s Victoria Barrett. “As well as the health benefits, walkers can use the maps to plan routes to discover, safely, some of the island’s beautiful countryside and coastal areas.”              

OS Explorer Map OL29, covers an area stretching from Southampton Water in the north to St Catherine’s Point in the south. And from The Needles in the west to Bembridge Ledge in the east.

OS Explorer Maps are available in both traditional and weatherproof 'Active' versions from booksellers and via Ordnance Survey’s website, www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/leisure

 

Note for editors

The Isle of Wight Walking Festival, in partnership with Ordnance Survey, begins on Saturday 3 May and runs until Sunday 18 May. The UK's largest walking festival, it attracts outdoor enthusiasts from across the world. For more information, visit www.isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk

 

 

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Head of Corporate Communications - Rob Andrews

Email: rob.andrews@ordnancesurvey.co.uk

Phone: (+44) 023 8079 2265

Senior Communications & PR Officer - Paul Beauchamp

Email: paul.beauchamp@ordnancesurvey.co.uk

Phone: (+44) 023 8079 2568

Press Office fax: (+44) 023 8030 5295