The aim of this post is to inform you of all you need to know to get started with using UKMap data in your research for the new academic year 2013/14.

What is UKMap?

• UKMap is a modern, highly detailed and feature rich mapping database that is free from Ordnance Survey copyright
• Based on 1:1,000 scale topographic mapping, UKMap accurately locates buildings, garages, property boundaries, roads, trees and many more features
• The dataset comprises of addresses, retail names including above ground usage, building heights, points of interest as well as an aerial photography layer

Further details about UKMap can be found in the Datasets area of the website.

What's new?

UKMap is updated every 6 months and this week the new Edition 11 data has been released through Landmap Kaia originally supplied by The GeoInformation Group. This will be the last update of UKMap data through Landmap due to the JISC funding cut.

How long is the data available for?

• UKMap will be available to download from Landmap Kaia  until 31 July 2014
• Downloaded UKMap data can be used in your research until 30 September 2014
• All UKMap original data, copies and derived products must be deleted and removed from all computers and back-up devices before or on 1 October 2014

For more details on citation and to read the End User Licensing Agreement 2013 for UKMap please visit the Data Licensing and Citation Guidelines.

Where and How do I download the UKMap data?

• You must be registered at a licensed institution and then register individually for the Landmap Service
• Using your institutional login details you can access Landmap Kaia
• Using keywords you can search for UKMap data and then use the Get Original File option for downloading UKMap data.

Where can I get further help and information about UKMap?

• This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. is available until 31 December 2013
• Introduction to UKMap Course can be found within the Protected Educational Resources in the Learning Zone (your institutional login details are required)
• Provides the latest UKMap Manual with detailed information about each mapping layer
• Breaks down the folder directory which is downloaded from Landmap Kaia explaining what each data layer is and the format provided
• Exercises to complete in either ArcGIS or QGIS including how to join tables and display the data
• If you would like to explore the UKMap data to understand further what information is contained in the data layers and to preview the data then you can download Junaio on a mobile device and explore the UKMap app by scanning the QR code or the aerial photograph on this postcard.

I hope that you explore and take advantage of the free access to this excellent dataset over the forthcoming year through Landmap.

Inquiries about continuing access to UKMap after 1 October 2014 need to be directed to the data supplier The GeoInformation Group.

Please note that the team will be getting in touch with current UKMap users before the end of this year and details of current users will be provided to The GeoInformation Group.