Reviewed by Louise Edwards
If you are looking for the perfect present for someone who seems to have everything or is difficult to buy for then what about a custom-made personalised Ordnance Survey map? It is the perfect Christmas gift for a fan of the outdoors, a dog walker or cyclist. Or anyone with just an interest in their local area or favourite holiday destination.
Ordnance Survey maps are an essential tool for any experienced or novice walker. As we know getting outdoors for a walk and your daily fresh air is good for mental and physical well-being. You can now personalise a map of your favourite place or even your own local area (a lovely gift for someone’s new home perhaps?).
The maps contain a huge list of information on them from the different roads and paths to public rights of way, bridleways, and cycle routes as well as more general information and tourist and leisure information. Of course, there are also contours, vegetation, and archaeological and historical information on there too. Plenty to fascinate the historian or geographer in the family too.
To order one you click on the website link below and chose the product. You then put in the postcode that you would like to be at the centre and the website shows you a preview of what it will look like. So clever!
After you are happy with the chosen map you continue to customise by adding on the photo that will be on the front cover (from a choice or you can upload your own) and chose any titles that you would like to be on the map. For example, you could say “Our local area” or put your name on it to make it even more unique. Whatever you want! Then you just add to your bag and can preview to check you are happy before paying.
You can get maps in different sizes and formats – either folded or flat (which can also be bought framed for the wall). Prices start at £6.99 for a small folded map and £79.99 for a framed, flat map. You can even splurge on a canvas map which would be perfect on the wall in a countryside bolthole. Maps look great on the wall and add a conversation starter for guests.
I am delighted with the large folded OS Explorer map I received and have spent a lot of time pouring over my local area and discovering new places that are literally on the doorstep. On the back there is a map of the wider area, just as there is on a standard map so you can clearly see what is covered on your map, which is the standard 1:25,000 scale ( 4cm to 1km) I have yet to use it but the convenient way it folds up makes it very accessible when planning (and taking) the walk. The cover is laminated cardboard which should withstand a shower or two. The map itself is very clearly marked and will no doubt give us lots of happy times making memories to treasure.
Rating: 5/5
RRP: from £6.99
This product can be purchased from Ordnance Survey here.