# Loading Esri Vector Tile Layers to QGIS

This guide will run through how to add a publicly accessible Esri Vector Tile Layer to a QGIS project.

### Adding layer to QGIS using Service URL

In the QGIS main menu, navigate to **Layer** > **Add Layer** **> Add Vector Tile Layer...**

Ensure **Source Type** is set to **Service**. Under **Connections**, click **New > New ArcGIS Vector Tile Service Connection...**

Type in a suitable name for the layer, and copy and paste the Service URL. \
\
The Service URL is listed in the BAS data catalogue the bottom right of an Esri item page.\
\
For example, a service URL might be:

<https://tiles.arcgis.com/tiles/tPxy1hrFDhJfZ0Mf/arcgis/rest/services/add_contours_medium_res_v7_3_vt/VectorTileServer>

Leave everything else as default and click **OK**.

<figure><img src="/files/2FPYzpCZseWrvveRBUfo" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

You will then return to the previous dialogue box. The new connection will be available to select in the Connections drop down menu. Ensure it is selected here and click **Add.** This will load the layer into the QGIS Project.&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/se8y2WqpXpyPGb4ihqlr" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


---

# Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation

If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://guides.geospatial.bas.ac.uk/using-mapping-data-services/bas-mapping-services/loading-esri-vector-tile-layers-to-qgis.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.
