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Map Symbols and Terms Explained
When we’re planning walks and exploring Teesdale, maps are always our starting point.
But maps can feel confusing at first. Between modern symbols on Ordnance Survey maps* and older language on historic maps, it’s easy to wonder what things actually mean.
This page is our simple guide to the symbols and phrases we come across while exploring Teesdale. From mining terms like hush and level, to everyday map markings such as footpaths and open access land, everything here is explained in plain English.
We often use Hiiker* to switch between modern, historic and satellite maps, and combine that with old newspaper research from the Teesdale Mercury Archive to better understand the places we visit.
There’s no jargon here and no assumptions. Just a growing reference you can dip into whenever something on a map catches your eye.
Whether you’re new to reading maps or simply curious about Teesdale’s landscape and history, we hope this helps you explore with more confidence.
Modern map symbols (what you actually see)
Open access land
Usually shown as pale yellow shading on OS Explorer maps. This is land normally available for access on foot, but local or temporary restrictions can apply and some areas within it may still be private. Check signs and current access information when you visit.
Public footpath (FP)
Green short dashed line on OS Explorer maps. A public right of way on foot. The local authority’s definitive map is the legal record, so routes can occasionally differ from what is shown on an OS map.
Bridleway
Longer green dashes. Walkers, horse riders and cyclists can use these routes.
Short dashed black line
A path or track. It does not automatically mean there is a public right of way.
Solid black line
Often a wall, fence or other boundary feature. Check the map key and surrounding detail for context.
Green area with tree symbols
Woodland.
Thin blue line
Stream or beck.
Brown or orange contour lines
Show the shape and height of the land. The closer the lines are together, the steeper the ground.
Roads
OS uses different colours and markings for different classes and types of road, so check the map key rather than relying on one colour.
Railway line
Railways have their own black line symbols, with different markings for single and multiple tracks.
Dismantled railway
An old railway where the line has been removed, often labelled “Dismantled”. Some have become walking or cycling routes, but the marking itself does not mean there is public access.
P
Parking. Always check signs and current arrangements locally.
Navigation and small map symbols
FB / FBs
Footbridge or footbridges.
Ford
A place where a route crosses through the water rather than over a bridge. Depth and flow can change quickly, so never assume a ford is safe to cross.
Spr
Spring (natural water source).
Cairn
Small pile of stones marking a route or high point.
Natural landscape terms around Teesdale
Beck
Small stream.
Gill
Narrow valley or ravine.
Force
Waterfall.
Plantation
Planted woodland.
Crag
Steep rocky outcrop.
Shake holes
Natural limestone collapse hollows.
Grouse butts
Low stone shelters on moorland.
Bield
Stone shelter for animals or people.
Historic mining and industry terms
Old level / Level entry
A horizontal mine passage driven into a hillside, also known as an adit.
Level dis
A disused mine level or adit. Levels could have been used for access, moving ore or drainage.
Shaft
A vertical or steep mine opening.
Workings dis
Disused mining workings.
Quarry
An open excavation where stone or other material was extracted.
Hush
A gully or ravine created or enlarged by controlled releases of water to expose or work mineral veins.
Gutter
A gully or channel in the landscape. In Teesdale mining areas the name can be associated with hushing, although not every gutter was entirely man-made.
Tip dis
Disused spoil heap.
Tramway
A route once used to move minerals and materials, often using small wagons.
Settlement
A group or site of buildings shown on the map.
Old mining landscapes can contain shafts, unstable ground and collapsed entrances, so we admire these features from safe ground and never enter old mine workings.
How we use this in real life
When something catches our eye on a map, we usually check access first, then look at contour lines, streams and old features before heading out.
We combine modern mapping with historic layers in Hiiker, and often research places using the Teesdale Mercury Archive to understand what used to be here.
Not every explore turns into something dramatic, but every walk teaches us something new.
We always stick to public rights of way or open access land, and avoid sharing locations that pass through farmyards or close to private homes. Teesdale is a working landscape, and exploring should always go hand in hand with respect.