Frequently Asked Questions

Offline Data?​

The app can load data online directly from Ordnance Survey APIs however its primary purpose is to download the entire map data for Britain to allow it to be used on your device without a data connection. The download is handled by the Android download manager and it will only download when connected to WiFi. If needed, to cancel a download, swipe down on the notification and press Cancel.

Can I put the map data on SD card?​

Yes, the app has a mechanism to store the file on external storage. Settings (Cog Icon) > Map Files > Press on a downloaded map file > Select 'Move to SD'

Where are the Map files stored?​

Legacy files are found at /maps/ either on internal or SD card storage. On Android 13 and lower: Files are now found at /android/data/uk.che.offlinebritain/files/maps/ either on internal or SD card storage. Since version 1.3 - On Android 14 and above: Files are now found at /android/media/uk.che.offlinebritain/maps/ either on internal or SD card storage.

I'm having trouble downloading, can I get the files elsewhere?​

Absolutely the good people at Ordnance Survey have made this incredibly easy to do. Click here select 'OS Open Zoomstack' and download in 'Vector Tiles (MBTiles)' format. When you have the file, copy it to the path on your device shown in the previous question.

What are 'Legacy' Map Files?​

The app was written prior to Android 10's new privacy features that block an app accessing folders such as /maps/ this where the data was downloaded to. Going forward all data is saved in the apps private directories so will be accessible. Anything left highlighted as a Legacy file will become inaccessible once Android 11 is installed on your device.

Motivation?​

I am a GIS developer and Ordnance Survey released a great new open product that their own app didn't take advantage of.

Other Issues? Feedback? Feature Suggestions?​

Email apps@chellew.co.uk.