If you’re lucky enough to live in the South Lakes, Miles Without Stiles can help you find a walk that’s right for you.
There are many health benefits associated with regular walking, especially for older people, and the activity can prove both physically and mentally rewarding. However, it isn’t always easy to find walks suitable for those with limited mobility, especially in the countryside. Fortunately, if you’re lucky enough to live in the South Lakes, Miles Without Stiles can help you find a walk that’s right for you.
Miles Without Stiles comprises 50 accessible walking routes across the Lake District National Park area, all of which are suitable for people with limited mobility or those who may need the support of care professionals. Routes are graded for ‘all,’ ‘many,’ or ‘some,’ to help give you an indication of the difficulty.
Miles Without Stiles: For All
Routes graded for ‘All’
are the most accessible walks in the Lake District. These routes have a gradient no greater than 1:10, and are typically surfaced with tarmac or smooth stone, with regular passing places and path widths. As such, they should be perfect for all wheelchair and mobility scooter users.
Miles Without Stiles: For Many
Routes graded for ‘Many’
should still be suitable for wheelchair and mobility scooter users, though the surfaces are likely to be a little rougher. Most slopes will not exceed 1:10, though some newer areas may be up to 1:8.
Miles Without Stiles: For Some
Finally, while routes graded for ‘Some’
are still considered accessible walks, it is recommended that wheelchair users be “strong and confident”. Off-road mobility scooters may be suitable on these routes. Gradients may exceed those on other walks, but rest assured that any slopes greater than 1:8 will have handrails provided or improved surfacing.
Whether you’d like to get out and start walking in the South Lakes, or wish to find a route suitable to walk with older family or friends, Miles Without Stiles is a very valuable resource. You can find more details about Miles Without Stiles, including information about public transport, on the Lake District National Park website. You can also find a full map of the Miles Without Stiles routes by clicking here.