10 of OS MasterMap®'s Most Important Key Layers

Written by Stefani Mavrou on

OS MasterMap® is a comprehensive mapping database that contains a large number of different layers of information. It is created by the Ordnance Surveythe national mapping agency for the United Kingdom and it is one of the most comprehensive and detailed mapping databases in the world, covering all of Great Britain at a scale of 1:1250.

The exact number of layers of OS MasterMap® can vary depending on the specific version and release, but there are typically several hundred different layers of information available. 

The exact number of layers can also depend on the specific application or use case. For example, some users may only need access to a subset of the available layers, while others may need access to the entire set of layers in order to perform more detailed analysis and mapping. 

Regardless of the specific use case, OS MasterMap® is designed to provide a wide range of users with the information they need to make informed decisions about the physical features of Great Britain. Some of the users include government agencies, architects, surveyors, environmental agencies, tree specialists, various businesses, and individuals, that require accurate and up-to-date information about the United Kingdom's topography. The map is constantly updated with new information, so the number of available layers is subject to change over time.

Download the latest update of OS MasterMap® here

OS MasterMap® sample

OS MasterMap® sample

OS MasterMap® contains several key layers of information, each of which provides specific data about the landscape of Great Britain. Some of the key layers of OS MasterMap® include: 

Topography Layer: This layer provides detailed information about the physical features of the landscape, including roads, buildings, and topographic features such as hills, valleys, and rivers. It also contains administrative boundaries. As of June 2009, it included over 425 million features, making it the most detailed layer.

Integrated Transport Network: Information about the road networks and public transport services in Great Britain, including details about road and rail networks, ferry routes, and airport locations. 

Address Layer: This one displays information about the location of individual addresses and buildings, including details such as street names, building types, and postcodes. 

Land Use Layer: This layer shows the land use and ownership of different areas, including details about public and private land, agricultural land, and conservation areas

Imagery Layer: High-resolution aerial imagery, which can be used to create detailed views of the landscape, including information about buildings, roads, and other features. 

 Height Data Layer: Elevation of different areas, including details about the height of buildings, hills, and other features. 

Theme Layer: This layer provides additional information about specific topics, such as flood zones, green spaces, and other areas of interest.

Cadastral Layer: Ownership and boundaries of land and property, including information about property deeds and rights of way.

Water Network Layer: Bodies of water, including rivers, lakes, and canals.

 Woods and Forest Layer: This layer provides information about woodland and forested areas, including information about tree species and forest management practices.

These are just a few of the key layers of information available in OS MasterMap®. The map is constantly updated with new information and new layers are added over time, making it an increasingly valuable resource for users who need accurate and up-to-date information about the physical features of Great Britain. All information about OS MasterMap® can be found here.

OS MasterMap® layers gif

OS MasterMap® layers