Permanent Orienteering courses
Permanent Orienteering Courses (POCs) can be used for informal training
A permanent orienteering course consists of a number of permanent control points (usually about 20) identified by sturdy wooden posts with a code and an orienteering logo carved or painted on them. All the controls are shown on an overprinted map.
POCs are usually situated in parks or forests owned by local councils, the National Trust or Forest Enterprise. Management of the courses may be by the owner of the land, or by the local orienteering club.
What is the purpose of a POC?
The courses can be used in different ways, depending on your own specific needs. The great thing about them is that you can go at a time to suit you, on whatever day of the week you choose. If you are an experienced orienteer you may use them to fine tune specific techniques, maybe pace counting, relocation or line orienteering. They are also an ideal way of introducing children and adults alike to the sport, where you can go at your own pace and spend as much time as you like figuring out the map. If you want to go in a pair or as a group, again, this is the perfect opportunity. You may have just started orienteering and are wanting to gain confidence in your skills outside of the pressures of an organised competition. So whether you are using them for training purposes or just for a more adventurous family stroll, the choice is entirely yours.
Watch a video of the use of permanent courses here
Local POCs
for more details contact Beryl Pring,
| Venue | Grid Ref postcode | Details |
| Bedgebury Pinetum |
TQ715336 TN17 2SJ |
Maps (£2) are available at the Visitor Centre 01580 879820. 4 courses are suggested on the map: White/Yellow/Orange/Light Green. Also 13km mountain bike trail, and terrific children's adventure play area. Car parking £10 weekdays and £13 weekends, Bank Holidays and school holidays. |
| Kent University Campus |
TR137599 CT2 7NT |
Maps are available at the University Sports Centre Reception. |
| Betteshanger Country Park |
TR347537 CT14 0BF |
Maps available from Bike Hire. The park is open from 8am every day but closing times vary throughout the seasons so check on their website https://www.betteshanger-park. co.uk. Contact phone number 01304 619227.
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| Whinless Down |
TR298415 CT17 9PT |
Maps and details available from White Cliffs Countryside Partnership Tel. 01304 241806 |
| Mote Park |
TQ769553 ME15 7SU |
Maps and instructions are available from the café on waterproof paper for £1.50. Opening times Winter 10 - 4 and Summer 10 - 5.30. Car parking £2. or Download from British Orienteering POC website £1 |
| Brockhill Country Park |
TR146357 CT21 4HL |
This is a small park with a Lake, childrens play area and a really good café. Great area for children and families to learn about orienteering. Waterproof Maps are available for £1 at the Café, open 10am – 5.30pm daily (10am – 4pm November to March) and on line at the |
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Milton Creek Country Park |
ME10 2HA |
Entrance to the park from Green Porch Close with limited parking. Friends of Milton Creek Country Park Facebook page A small park with Childrens Play area and a Fishing Lake. Two trails suitable for wheelchairs. Maps available from British Orienteering POC website |
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