OS VectorMap District Download Instructions
OS VectorMap District is a free, open dataset from Ordnance Survey providing a simple vector basemap at 1:25,000 scale covering Great Britain. It’s designed for creating graphical mapping and can serve as either a standalone map or as a geographic context for overlay information.
Key Features
- Scale: 1:25,000 nominal scale
- Coverage: Whole of Great Britain
- Format: Vector dataset
- Cost: Free to use for everyone
- Updates: Every six months
- Purpose: Graphical mapping and backdrop applications
How to Download
Step 1: Access the OS Data Hub
- Visit the OS Data Hub
- Navigate to the downloads section
- Look for “VectorMap District” under open datasets
Step 2: Registration
- Sign up for a free OS Data Hub account if you don’t have one
- Create your first project within the Data Hub
- This gives you access to download services and APIs
Step 3: Download Options
The data is available through multiple channels:
Direct Download:
- Access via the OS Data Hub downloads service
- Available as data packages for specific areas or full coverage
API Access:
- Use OS Data Hub APIs for programmatic access
- Suitable for applications requiring real-time data integration
Data Package Creator:
- Custom area selection tool
- Choose specific geographic regions
- Generate tailored data packages
Available Formats
Vector Data
- Full vector dataset with customizable styling
- Suitable for GIS applications
- Allows selective layer display
- Compatible with mapping software like ArcGIS, QGIS
Raster Versions
Two pre-styled raster options are available:
- Full-colour version
- Optimized for print outputs
- Complete color scheme applied
- Backdrop version
- Designed as a background for analysis
- Subtle styling for overlay work
Styling Resources
- Custom Styling: Create your own map appearance using the vector data
- Free Stylesheets: Ordnance Survey provides ready-made stylesheets for consistency
- GitHub Repository: OS VectorMap District stylesheets contains cartographic style files
Technical Specifications
- Coordinate System: British National Grid (EPSG:27700)
- File Formats: Various GIS-compatible formats available
- Layer Structure: Organized by feature types (roads, water, buildings, etc.)
- Attributes: Each feature includes relevant attribute data
Use Cases
OS VectorMap District is ideal for:
- Web mapping applications requiring a backdrop
- Print mapping where custom styling is needed
- Analysis applications needing geographic context
- Educational and research projects
- Commercial applications (free license)
Support and Documentation
- Product Support: Available through OS website
- Technical Documentation: Comprehensive guides available on OS Data Hub
- Community Resources: Active user community and forums
- API Documentation: Detailed API reference for developers
Getting Started
- Register: Sign up at OS Data Hub
- Explore: Browse the available data and tools
- Download: Select your preferred format and coverage area
- Implement: Use the data in your chosen mapping application
- Style: Apply custom styles or use provided stylesheets
License
OS VectorMap District is available under the Open Government Licence, making it free to use for any purpose, including commercial applications.
For detailed technical specifications and the latest updates, visit the official OS VectorMap District product page or contact Ordnance Survey support for assistance with specific implementation requirements.
