By Gill Stewart at
Walkers, outdoor enthusiasts and map lovers have been excited about a rare event that has been making history in deepest Dorset.
According to the Ordnance Survey (OS) the triple alignment of the three ‘norths’ used in navigation made landfall in Langton Matravers, near Swanage in Dorset, on Wednesday 2nd November.
As this is only a mile from our HQ we felt compelled to experience something that will apparently remain converged for about three years as it moves through the UK before leaving our shores around Berwick-upon Tweed in August 2025
In case you are wondering what we mean by the three ‘norths’ this simple explanation from ordnance survey might help
Grid north is the blue line on an OS map that points to the North Pole.
True north is the direction of lines of longitude that also converge at the North Pole, but this varies from grid north as it reflects the curve of the earth.
Magnetic north marks the north-ward line to the magnetic North Pole.
The latter is known to wander a tad due to adjustments in the magnetic field in the Earth’s core which means it moves continually north-westward.
We always knew our HQ was in a special spot but now we now its definitely a unique, historic place to walk ( with or without a map) If you want to experience the convergence, you will need to do so before Christmas and don’t forget to pop in as you go past!
You can read more about the alignment of the three norths here – ORDNANCE SURVEY