The phrase refers to United Kingdom road maps available for download and printing at no cost. These resources typically depict the nation’s road network, including motorways, A-roads, B-roads, and minor routes. They often feature key geographical landmarks, towns, and cities. An example includes a PDF document displaying the M6 motorway corridor, accessible online and readily printed for navigational purposes.
The availability of such cartographic resources facilitates journey planning and route optimization for drivers, cyclists, and other travelers within the UK. These tools were particularly crucial before widespread adoption of digital navigation systems and continue to offer a valuable backup or alternative when electronic devices are unavailable or unreliable. Historically, printed road maps represented the primary navigational aid, evolving from hand-drawn sketches to professionally produced guides distributed by motoring organizations and publishers.
The following sections will examine the various sources of complimentary UK road maps, considerations for selecting the most appropriate map based on intended use, and the implications of relying on printed maps in the digital age. This exploration will include a discussion of map scales, updating frequency, and available supplementary information.