User guide for the BGS Geology : 50k dataset (V8)

The British Geological Survey provides nationwide digital geological maps at a range of scales. These digital products are known by the name ‘BGS Geology’ (formerly DiGMapGB). This guide is written for users of the 1:50 000 scale digital geological map data (BGS Geology: 50k) version 8, released in 2016. It describes the basic layout and content of the dataset and provides background information as to how this version of the dataset has changed compared with previous versions. A basic appreciation of Geographical Information System (GIS) terminology is needed to understand some of the information outlined here. Users should also familiarise themselves with some of the basic principles behind geological description of our landscape; further information about how BGS has made the geological map of Great Britain can be found on the BGS website at: http://www.bgs.ac.uk/products/digitalmaps/digmapgb.html