Obtaining field parcel numbers

Where can I obtain a field parcel number?

Field parcel numbers are now the responsibility of Rural Payments Agency (RPA); you can contact their helpline on telephone number 0845 6037777 or email csc@rpa.gsi.gov.uk

What is the 'S' symbol shown over a line or lines on Ordnance Survey mapping?

The elongated ’S’ symbol is known as an areas brace symbol. This joins areas of land together to give a single field parcel number. This area is measured to give the combined total area measurement.

What are field ties and what do they denote on old maps?

Tie is another name for an areas brace, and is used to join together areas to obtain a single field parcel number and measurement for the field parcel number.

What is the measurement of a hectare?

1 hectare = 2.47 acres

Where can I get a field parcel measurement?

Information is available from Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data Centres.

Where can I get the field area values and measurements available on OS Sitemap^® (formerly Superplan^®)?

Field numbers are available, but no measurements are shown on OS Sitemap. OS Sitemap information is kept on microfilm and can be purchased from Ordnance Survey. Please email historicalmapping@ordnancesurvey.co.uk.

How can I get field parcel numbers on historical mapping?

These are shown on 1:2500 scale National Grid and County Series mapping.  For information on historical mapping please email historicalmapping@ordnancesurvey.co.uk.

What do the three- (pre-war) and four-figure field parcel numbers represent?

For County Series field parcel numbers – usually three numbers – are based on areas within each separate parish within a county. The parish areas are numbered consecutively for each parish within the county. Therefore the three-figure number can repeat itself in each parish. To assist with the investigation for any County Series enquiries, please give as much information for the location, type of building, landmarks and so on.

Four-figure field numbers are derived from our National Grid reference system. The adjoining sheet edge(s) have been checked to ensure that the numbers remained consistent with the National Grid. For information on historical mapping please contact historicalmapping@ordnancesurvey.co.uk.

How much does historical mapping cost?

For information please refer to the relevant product page on our website.