What to expect
For the Visually Impaired
The walking holidays aim to bring together mixed groups of all ages to enjoy a relaxed, informal fun break focusing on the activity such as a walk on the Malvern Hills and evenings of sharing good food and company. You will be helped and guided as much or as little as you would like. The focus is to provide a sociable and invigorating activity weekend with the addition of guides to enable you and to keep you safe.
The walking holidays aim to bring together mixed groups of all ages to enjoy a relaxed, informal fun break focusing on the activity such as a walk on the Malvern Hills and evenings of sharing good food and company. You will be helped and guided as much or as little as you would like. The focus is to provide a sociable and invigorating activity weekend with the addition of guides to enable you and to keep you safe.
Sighted
Sighted holidaymakers can enjoy the walking holiday at the same time as sharing the experience with the visually impaired members of the group. You are not carers, you are asked to aid by, for example, offering an elbow to guide around obstacles or warn of uneven ground. It is a richly rewarding experience in so many ways.
The blind and visually impaired often have some sight and their needs vary requiring different levels and types of help. Your blind partner may wish for the views to be described or the colour of the flowers. The sighted often find that their own experience is enhanced by observing their surroundings more closely and putting into words what they are seeing.
We will ensure that you are advised and well prepared to help your blind partner, and pairings will change throughout the weekend so that the groups mix and everyone has the chance to get to know each other.
Sighted holidaymakers can enjoy the walking holiday at the same time as sharing the experience with the visually impaired members of the group. You are not carers, you are asked to aid by, for example, offering an elbow to guide around obstacles or warn of uneven ground. It is a richly rewarding experience in so many ways.
The blind and visually impaired often have some sight and their needs vary requiring different levels and types of help. Your blind partner may wish for the views to be described or the colour of the flowers. The sighted often find that their own experience is enhanced by observing their surroundings more closely and putting into words what they are seeing.
We will ensure that you are advised and well prepared to help your blind partner, and pairings will change throughout the weekend so that the groups mix and everyone has the chance to get to know each other.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my guide dog?
Yes, please let us know in advance.
Both my partner and I are visually impaired. Are the holidays suitable for us?
Yes, we offer guides on a one-to-one basis for you and your partner.
I am blind and would like to bring my family. Is the holiday suitable for us?
We welcome families; however the walking break includes a full day of walking which requires a moderate to high level of fitness and therefore would not be suitable for young children. Children remain the responsibility of the parents.
Are there any extra costs?
All meals are included. Drinks in the pub are not included. Packed lunch is included in the Saturday walk but we also stop at a café where you have the opportunity to buy your own refreshments, drinks, cakes etc.
I will be arriving by train. Will I be met at the station?
We arrange for you to be met and guided as appropriate from Great Malvern or Colwall Railway Station and returned at the end of your stay.
How do I make a booking?
Please call or e-mail your booking enquiry. We ask for 50% deposit on booking and the balance is payable 4 weeks prior to the holiday start date.
Yes, please let us know in advance.
Both my partner and I are visually impaired. Are the holidays suitable for us?
Yes, we offer guides on a one-to-one basis for you and your partner.
I am blind and would like to bring my family. Is the holiday suitable for us?
We welcome families; however the walking break includes a full day of walking which requires a moderate to high level of fitness and therefore would not be suitable for young children. Children remain the responsibility of the parents.
Are there any extra costs?
All meals are included. Drinks in the pub are not included. Packed lunch is included in the Saturday walk but we also stop at a café where you have the opportunity to buy your own refreshments, drinks, cakes etc.
I will be arriving by train. Will I be met at the station?
We arrange for you to be met and guided as appropriate from Great Malvern or Colwall Railway Station and returned at the end of your stay.
How do I make a booking?
Please call or e-mail your booking enquiry. We ask for 50% deposit on booking and the balance is payable 4 weeks prior to the holiday start date.
Transport links
There are excellent road and rail links to Great Malvern and The Malvern Hills.
Road: Easy connection from M5 and M50.
Rail: Great Malvern station is on the mainline link to Paddington and the Birmingham to Hereford rail link.
If you are travelling alone pre-booked assistance is available on these services.
Road: Easy connection from M5 and M50.
Rail: Great Malvern station is on the mainline link to Paddington and the Birmingham to Hereford rail link.
If you are travelling alone pre-booked assistance is available on these services.
Testimonials
"I attended my first event in May and I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I’ve never attended an unknown venue on my own and I was a little nervous. I needn’t have worried. I was met off the train by my guide for the day and she took us by car to the venue. Alison, the yoga teacher, was lovely and tailored her session to all levels and abilities. The gong bath was a new experience for me. It’s so therapeutic. I can’t wait to go again."
Debbie, Hereford with Guide Dog Tara
Debbie, Hereford with Guide Dog Tara