By using Ordnance Survey mapping at up to 1:50,000 scale, users can plan, plot and share their own routes and attach their own photographs and highlight points of interest. So if a walk has a breathtaking view, users can not only make sure other walkers don’t miss it, they can upload a preview too.

 In addition, bloggers can create discussion groups to share their thoughts, debate ideas and express opinions with other lovers of the great outdoors.

 The search facility enables visitors to look for routes added by other users across the entire country by place name, postcode or grid reference while filtering for a host of criteria, including on or off road, child friendliness and disabled access. 

 Once visitors to the site have found a route that meets their needs, whether they’re a mountain-biking thrill seeker or a family out for a gentle walk, they can follow a link directly to the Ordnance Survey Map Shop to buy the accompanying map or partner product.

 Bridget Kendrick, head of the explore team at Ordnance Survey, says, “We’re very excited about building an online outdoor community and hope visitors will enjoy using the site.

 “We want to foster an environment where users can interact, share and create an online destination for all outdoor enthusiasts. I think we’re on our way to achieving that. It is currently a beta version though, which means we want to hear feedback from users and visitors so we can make explore the online destination of choice.

“Our aim is to offer everyone, from regular walkers to casual cyclists, a central hub from which to plan their day out, so that more and more people can enjoy the benefits of getting out and about in the great outdoors.”

 Explore has only been up and running for a short time but so far the response from users has been very positive.

 James Brayshaw, Ordnance Survey’s Director of Market Development, feels that explore is an excellent addition to the products and services that Ordnance Survey and its partners already offer.

 “We hope that it will become the perfect starting point for anyone planning a day outdoors,” James comments. “It fully complements the wide range of maps, guides and satnav products that are available for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy”.

 Visitors to explore can start searching and viewing routes straight away, while registration for anyone wanting to contribute takes only a few minutes.

To start enjoying explore, visit http://explore.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/