London European Club

These are a number of dragon statues around the City Of London marking the boundaries of the City. Most of them are silver and red, but not all.

There are a surprising number of these, shall we see how many we can get to? I feel confident in predicting that it won't be all 14, let's track down a few until we've walked long enough and decide to retire to a pub. I'll look for some likely candidates in a couple of places.

Come and join me in looking for these dragons. Their presence goes back to the mid 19th Century though they are inspired by the emblem for the City that can be traced back a very long way.

I will tell you what they have to do with coal, what their colours mean and what makes them different to griffons (Do the dragons have lion bodies, eagle claws and heads? Lets find out!). There are also some dragon depictions elsewhere in the City that we'll have to keep on the look-out for those during future walks.

I'm also keen to tell you about some bridges over the Thames, the Inns of Court, and some other subjects that I find fascinating.

The fee for the walk is £5 in cash please (or PayPal if you have it on your phone), this will go towards the organiser's fee that Meetup charges. Thank you.

Join me!

The Stunning Italian Gardens of Kensington park-

An oasis of calm and classical beauty in the middle of the hustle and bustle that is London.
A wonderful space with calming array of fountains.
Featuring an ornamental water garden consisting of four main pools surrounded by statues and ornate urns, its the perfect place to have a picnic, to escape everyday life and de-stress.

Let's meet at 12.30pm, outside the nearest tube station, Lancaster Gate. Then make our way to the park. Pls bring your own food/drink & blanket/chair to sit on. See you there :)

The fabulous & colourful Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill-

A famous antique market filled with everything from vintage trinkets and pre-loved games, to fresh fruit and flowers. Adored by locals and tourists alike.
A long road brimming with brilliant market stalls, boasting the world’s largest antique market. As well as many vintage clothing & accessories, collectables and bric-a-bracs.

Walking through at a slow pace, once we've explored the antique section of the market, we'll go over to the food area that stretches out onto Golborne Road. We'll sit and have something to eat or drink before going on to explore more.

Let's meet @12pm, outside the Gate Picturehouse Cinema. Located close to Notting Hill Gate tube station. See you there :)