Trig Bagging FAQs

Triangulation (trig) points are ancient surveyor’s waypoints, used in the 1600s, to ensure that the distance from one point to another was exactly measured. They’re marked by small blue triangles on OS maps and can be found in every county of England and Wales.

You can choose to walk, run or cycle to a trig point – there are thought to around 6000 remaining triangulation (trig) pillars spread across the Britain landscape, most can be “bagged” by using a map and compass..

I’ll share with you everything I’ve learned about trig bagging so that you can bag as many points as possible too!

Trig bagging is a fun and alternative way to explore your local area. It requires courage, determination, and energy. And above all, it’s a lot of fun!

Looking for a new challenge or motivation to move?

Try trig bagging! Head out to a famous peak, locate all the trig points, navigate to each one using modern navigational techniques, and return safely. Complete with photos from your journey, a trig bagging adventure is the most fun you can have for free in the great outdoors!

Trig bagging is an activity that involves visiting as many trig points as possible. In order to “bag a trig,” you must climb upon the pillar or at the very least tap the top of it!

Trig bagging involves climbing to high points where most trig pillars will be situated. You’ll have to research where exactly they are and how to navigate to them – but that’s all part of the fun!

Just enjoy it and of course, leave it as you found it!

Go outdoors and enjoy a whole new world when you trig bag!

Triangulation (trig) pillars are the traditional way of determining a person’s latitude. They are found at some of the most beautiful locations in the British Isles, and there are thought to around 6000 remaining triangulation pillars spread across the UK landscape.

Trig bagging requires a half-decent level of fitness, navigational skill and stamina. Only those who possess the necessary qualities will be able to achieve the goal of bagging a coveted trig!

Trig bagging is a physically demanding hobby. It clears your mind and keeps you fit with all the potential to explore, and experience new surroundings.

So, you think hiking is a bit dull?

Take a deep breath, step out of your comfort zone, and experience the great outdoors like never before with the added impetus of seeking out and bagging a trig point. Give your hike a purpose!

Wherever you are in the world, trig bagging can take you to some incredible places.

Are you looking for the most exciting outdoor activities to try in your country? Bag every trig point near you and revel in the accomplishment!

I got into trig bagging because it’s a fun activity that makes every day an adventure while keeping fit and healthy at the same time. You never know what you’re going to find or who you’re going to meet! It’s also a fantastic way of exploring where you live. We just don’t appreciate what is on our own doorstep sometimes!

Bagging a trig point is a great way to add interesting day-to-day experience to your hiking and walking routes. Triangulation points are marked by a small blue triangle on OS maps. They are identified from above if you know their location, so you’ll need a map and compass to find them.

The thrill of the climb and taking in a beautiful view as you reach the summit!

Whether you’re bagging for a cause, or for charity, or just doing it for fun. The hike up to the top of a hill or mountain makes you feel like you’re on top of the world looking down. Well, you kind of are! It’s just one of those unforgettable moments that makes everything that precedes it worth it.

Grab your gear and get exploring!

I was looking for a new, interesting challenge minus the cost of entering events. We’re all feeling the squeeze at the moment! Having had a great 2022, completing 6 ultramarathons, the London Marathon plus other 10k and half marathons – it all came at a cost. A financial cost!

I wanted to keep moving but with a purpose. Trig bagging gives me the purpose and the journey to find them keeps me moving!

The thrill of victory, the agony of defeat, and the in-between that makes a journey memorable are what makes trig bagging an awesome hobby.

To translate, it’s the fun and the adventure or exploring new areas. Figuring out a route, the elation of catching site of the trig pillar. The satisfaction of bagging it. All this is done at relatively low cost as I have the gear and the trig points are all within an area that doesn’t take long to drive to or cost a massive amount in petrol. What’s not to like?!

Trig bagging started out as a hobby. A bit of fun. however, it has quickly become an obsession! Looking forward to the weekend to get outside and explore.

I bought the Herefordshire Trig Bagger book from Amazon at Christmas in 2022 and that was where I started!

I thought it would be a cool idea to blog about my trig bags – like an online journal. Maybe it might inspire you to try trig bagging or help fellow trig baggers in their quests too!

If I had to give advice to a new trig bagger, it would be to have fun and plan accordingly.

however, make sure you’re bringing necessities like food and water supplies, a phone and if you need it – a torch!

Plan your route – both on foot and by car. I use Google maps to see where I can park up then plan the route from there. I use the OS Maps app and my Coros Apes GPS watch to aid navigation.

Trig bagging is a great way to exercise and see the countryside. There are so many amazing experiences out there to be had.

Above all, it’s an enjoyable pastime filled with challenges, but if you are up to it, then be ready to spar with the wilderness! Experience a range of emotions and the buzz of bagging that trig point!

I bought myself a copy of the Herefordshire Trig Bagger book from Amazon at Christmas 2022.

My personal challenge would be to clock up 2023 miles in 2023 and to make this way more interesting, explore Herefordshire by trig bagging!

I had the advantage of already owning a lot of kit from my ultramarathons. Hydration vests, Hoka Speedgoat 4s, wet and dry weather gear and Sealskinz. It’s a relatively inexpensive hobby as you just need the bare essentials – no need to buy the best of everything to get started – however, the Herefordshire Trig Bagger book is a great help!

Physical activity is one of the best ways to help keep your mind and body in good shape. How about try trig bagging?

Being active can help you reduce your risk of mental health problems, including anxiety and depression, as well as lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

The more active you are, the better your mental health.

You don’t have to be an athlete or do anything strenuous to get a health boost from exercise; even just taking the stairs and shopping at a store where there’s lots of walking helps. And remember: staying active is also beneficial for your overall well-being.

Being active is a great way to be healthy and feel good. It can help you manage stress, boost your mood and above all, give you extra energy – all of which are important things when it comes to mental health.

We’ve all heard that exercise is a great way to maintain mental health. It can improve our mood, reduce stress and improve our sleep quality. However, many people find it difficult to start – especially if they’re busy with work or other commitments. If you want to get active, try trig bagging!