FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a 1:2500 scale aerial photo?
This is an ortho‑rectified, high‑resolution aerial photograph aligned to the OS MasterMap Topography Layer at 1:2500 scale - ideal for professional planning, surveying, and environmental monitoring.
How current is the aerial imagery?
More than 97% of OS imagery is under 5 years old, and 90% is less than 3 years old—ensuring your images are up-to-date and reliable. The Date Flown will be stamped on your image.
What formats and paper sizes are offered?
Available file formats include PDF, TIFF, Word DOCX and JPG, with print-ready sizes from A4 to A0 (and even up to 90 cm × 90 cm), complete with north arrow, scale bar, licence number, and grid references.
How quickly will I receive my aerial photo?
Digital delivery is typically via email within 30 minutes, available 7 days a week (7 am–11 pm). Larger area orders may take a little longer. If your order has not arrived by email please check your junk or spam folder before contacting us.
Which geographic areas are covered?
Available for all Great Britain (excluding Northern Ireland), you can select any specific location.
What is the starting price?
Prices start from £34.39 + VAT for an A4 Extract and will vary depending on the format and size you select.
Do I need my own OS licence to use the images?
No - you are covered. Every image includes a printed licence number and complies fully with OS governance.
How does aerial imagery differ from vector/CAD mapping?
Aerial imagery provides true photographic detail (e.g. trees, vehicles, markings) unlike vector/CAD formats (DWG/DXF) which contain editable line data—ideal for visual verification. We Have Vector CAD Mapping available so check out CAD OS Mastermap in DXF/DWG format or OS Mastermap Aerial Tiles for GIS users - these tiles and sections available to order separately.
Can I annotate or outline features on the photo?
Yes - you can add outlines or annotations (e.g., highlight a property boundary) within the single-copy licence. Additional copies that you intent to print can be selected during purchase. this is done after purchase using our own redline tool or your own editing software like Photoshop or MS Paint - best practice is to securely save the original so you can rework as many times as required.
Get Licenced Maps, Fast. Order your Ordnance Survey 1:2500 Aerial Photos from UK Map Centre.
