Blind and visually impaired people

The mobility of blind and partially sighted people varies. While many blind people are able to move around urban environments relatively freely and independently, off-road paths with uneven surfaces and obstacles can prove more difficult. Going out with a sighted companion to act as a guide is the easiest way of overcoming such difficulties if you can find someone to help.

Some other points to note:

Some routes and trails have been designed with blind and visually impaired people in mind, though these are usually fairly short. Details are available from the same sources as details of easy access walks (see People with limited mobility below). This doesn’t mean that visually impaired people will only be interested in such trails — there is much to enjoy in the outdoors besides its sights.
Visually impaired people often find walking downhill trickier than walking uphill: try to plan a route that avoids too many downhill stretches, or allow plenty of time for them.
Although they will appreciate the exercise, guide dogs are often of little help on country walks since they are usually trained for urban streets, and may also have problems with stiles and gates. As with any other dog, they must to be kept under close control, particularly near livestock.
Several organisations, including some Ramblers local Groups, organise group walks for blind and partially sighted people: visit Walks for visually impaired people. Try also your local Ramblers Area, the RNIB, local libraries and information centres or local blind groups. Some groups can put you in touch with people locally who are prepared to take small groups or individuals on walks. The RNIB also offers some walking holidays for blind people.

Useful contacts: