Walking Maps
We like maps, we especially like Ordnance Survey maps, which is what we use on www.walk4life.info. But we do recognise that we are unusual, and that not everyone shares our enthusiasm. We know that many people do not feel comfortable using traditional maps, and that many people simply cannot read them.
We have carried out research into the kind of maps ordinary people do like (see our report to the Department for Transport). Using this knowledge we have developed a mapping style that is attractive and easy for everyone to understand. We use 3-D buildings and widen key roads, as well as showing key navigational features in greater detail. The maps have been hugely popular in the areas they have been used.
Camden Dr Maps
We developed a set of maps based around GPs surgeries. The maps show short local walks that can be joined together to provide longer walks. The maps are individually drawn on a 3-D base.
It was important for this project that the maps had very little text as many of the target population speak very little English. This meant the style was developed to be very easy to use, without the need for route directions or detailed descriptions.
The routes are carefully chosen and audited to provide pleasant, interesting and enjoyable walks through areas people feel comfortable in.
The maps are printed onto A4 pads, and are ‘prescribed’ to patients by GPs and health professionals. Early evaluation of the project demonstrates a reassuringly high impact with 51% of people who have been ‘prescribed’ the maps going on to do the walks.
Examples of the Camden maps :
- Bloomsbury (pdf, 703kb)
- Royal Free Hospital (pdf, 560kb)
- Camden Town (pdf, 494kb)
Tewkesbury Maps
A similar approach was adopted in Tewksebury, although the maps were produced by a different company. Walk England coordinated the project, identified and audited the routes, and carried out community consultation.
Tower Hamlets Walk4Life Maps
Tower Hamlets were keen to encourage more walking, but did not have the budget for individually drawn maps, instead an open-source base map was used.
Examples are:
- Bethnal Green (pdf, 501kb)
- Victoria Park (pdf, 452kb)
Other examples of Walk4Life maps can be seen at www.walk4life.info/about-walk4life/dr-maps
