The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word BEARINGS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Sunday Telegraph
B
E
A
R
I
N
G
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "sense of direction" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case sense of direction = bearings.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does BEARINGS mean?
BEARINGS noun- A mechanical device that supports another part and/or reduces friction.
- The horizontal angle between the direction of an object and another object, or between it and that of true north; a heading or direction.
- Relevance; a relationship or connection.
- One's posture, demeanor, or manner.
- (in the plural) Direction or relative position.
- That part of any member of a building which rests upon its supports.
- The portion of a support on which anything rests.
- The unsupported span.
- Any single emblem or charge in an escutcheon or coat of arms.