• Home
  • Learn about maps
    • What is a map?
    • Reading maps
    • Step by step map analysis
  • About us
  • Downloads
  • For teachers
  • Map gallery
  • What is a map?
  • Reading maps
  • Step by step map analysis
Graphic of buildings Graphic of standing stones Graphic of flying bird Graphic of car
View introduction Go to 'Step by step' activity Go to 'What is a map' activity Go to 'Reading maps' activity

Welcome to Mapping History

close window

Watch Chris Fleet, the National Library of Scotland's Senior Map Curator, talk about the history of mapping in Scotland to help get you started.

Video transcript (215 KB; 2 pages)

Welcome to Mapping History – a guide to using historical maps.

Whether you're a teacher interested in finding out about how to use maps in the classroom or a community group looking to do a local history project, this site is for you.

We've created a range of activities and a simple step-by-step guide which shows you how to read and use a wide range of maps including historical maps.

These activities which will help you learn more about the history of your area using maps. The 'Go further' downloadable activity sheets will help you extend your knowledge of using maps in the field.


Start using Mapping History

  • Copyright
  • Privacy statement
  • NLS map images

© Copyright 2013 National Library of Scotland and Archaeology Scotland

National Library of Scotland
Archaeology Scotland