For many years a key feature of my walking has been to visit Ordnance Survey triangulation pillars, also known as trig pillars. These pillars were introduced in 1935 in a project led by Brigadier Martin Hotine and for many years were essential in the production of detailed maps of the British Isles.
I could not do justice by trying to summarise the detailed history of the development and construction of over 6,500 of these pillars, far better to direct you to the OS website.
It was only when one of my Twitter buddies, Moira, asked how many I had “bagged” did I stop and try to work it out. I knew I had been to loads, but as I started trawling back through my pictures I realised I had not always taken a photograph. I took the view that if I didn’t have photographic evidence then I couldn’t include it in my “bagged” list.
Another key feature is the process by which I “bag” the trig pillar. It would appear that for some the pure act of getting to the trig, ideally with the minimum of walking, is all that matters, they seek the nearest point they can leave their vehicle. I recognise for some this might work. However, I enjoy planning a long walk that gives me the opportunity to bag a trig, or on a good day more than one.
Below is an interactive Google map showing the location of the trig pillars I have bagged and a link to the walk on which it was bagged.
12th December 2023
© Two Dogs and an Awning (2023)
All information on this site is provided free of charge and in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of damage, loss or injury which might result from it. To the best of my knowledge the routes are entirely on public rights of way or within areas that are open for public access.
Walking can be hazardous and is done entirely at your own risk. It is your responsibility to check your route and navigate using a map and compass.
Really interesting, we “found” a trig point roadside in Norfolk and wondered what it was and so began a bit of an obsession with trips and bagging! Really enjoyed reading, thanks
*trigs although autocorrect would rather have trips or tries
Just discovered this blog and as motorhomers with a dog, this looks an excellent resource.
Thanks very much for all the detailed walk information and credit to you for your charitable work.
Living near Pitton and glad to see you’ve lots of local walks, hope to try a few suggested routes out. Nice resource!
Referring to your Moonraker site, but the trigs are inTRIGuing too! Wish I had the time to explore our great country as you clearly relish doing.
Hey guys! We follow each other on Insta but I’ve noticed on your map you’ve only bagged 3 Herefordshire trigs (& 3 of the best to be fair!) – if you’d like to cherry-pick a few other the nicer ones you haven’t done, take a look at my site – happy to recommend a few of my favourites too if you venture this way in the future!