Where to find old ordinance survey maps

We make finding old ordinance survey maps easier with our tips on where to find them. The article below shows you where you can get old ordinance survey maps at both online and offline locations.

Websites

Maps of the UK can be found online at several websites. However, the prices and services online sites offer varies. Ordnancesurvey.co.uk Ordnancesurvey.co.uk is the official site of ordnance maps and is now celebrating 220 years of map-making, stretching right back to their first mapping of the south east when Napoleon threatened invasion! They have a good mix of maps and a lot of supporting information about research and education.
Alangodfreymaps.co.uk
Alangodfreymaps.co.uk has an online catalogue and map shop containing more than 2,500 old OS maps. Godfrey maps are 1/2500 and are reprinted to about one mile per 14 inches, which makes them greatly detailed. Prices vary but you can expect to pay around £3.50 including postage. Old-maps.co.uk Old-maps.co.uk has a comprehensive online archive which you can browse for free. This site is endorsed by Channel Four's Time Team programme. Maps can be downloaded (which is the cheapest option) or you can order prints or framed prints. Cassinimags.co.uk Cassinimags.co.uk has downloadable, enhanced reproductions of English, Scottish and Welsh OS maps. You can search by place name or postcode. Items on this site are available at a range of prices. As well as providing maps for sale, they also have box sets, framed maps and a range of gift ideas including jigsaws and placemats.

Other places

Antique maps can also be found in antique and second-hand shops. For originals, this is your best bet as most of the websites only sell reproductions. Auctions and house clearances can also turn up old maps. If you like searching, car boot sales and flea markets are also great places for browsing and you never know what might turn up. Maps for browsing If you don't wish to purchase maps but just peruse them, try your local library or specialist libraries in your area. Local historians or historical societies may also have a collection they will be willing for you to have a look at. Book shops sell a range of maps and you might be lucky to find reproductions of old series OS maps there. Gift or tourist shops in certain areas also sell reproduction maps as a novelty feature. Quality often varies but you may find a gem amongst these.