What we’re about
Hello and welcome to Peterborough Friends. I started this group almost 10 year's ago after a few years of being a single mother. I found that there were things I was missing out on in life like eating out, going to the theatre and generally just having someone to chat to on a walk or having some friends to go on holiday with. The group is now well established and we still have some of our original members. There are members in their 20s to 80s so we are a very mixed and diverse group which works very well.
I host most of the events myself but have a few friends that cover events if I am away. There are lots of events which require either a deposit or payment upfront. The reason for this is so that the event is well attended. In past experience it is very easy to cancel at the last minute so this ensures that we don't upset restaurants and that we can book theatre seats together so nobody is left sat alone.
Lifts and travel can be shared so please don't be afraid to ask. Just post a comment on the event to see if anyone can help. Please do not contact people directly for lifts unless you have made friends with them.
If you are free during the day we meet on Mondays at 2 pm at Central Park. We meet outside the Willow Cafe in the centre of the park. If the weather is bad we still meet for coffee. These are gentle walks but if you would rather just come for a chat and a coffee please arrive at 2.30pm and I will meet you in the cafe.
If walking isn't your thing or you work during the day there are events at least five times a week. We have regular coffee mornings, theatre, days out, lunches and dinners and even holidays. Have a look at the calendar and you will see events planned until the end of 2026. If you are interested in an event please click "attend" so that you are added to my list and I can look out for you.
MEMBERSHIP
You will need an up to date photo of yourself to join this group. This is so I can recognise you at events. You will be removed from the group if you refuse to do this. It is helpful if you add a surname as we are a large group and this will make it easier for me, especially when sending payments.
You are welcome to try out the group for free but after two events the cost is £25 for the year. This cost covers the website charges, some of my expenses and allows me to run the group on a full time basis. This amount is non-refundable. If you do not attend your first event for six months your membership will be cancelled unless the subscription payment is received. Meet up is run by an American company and I have no say in the way the website works. Please note that if the website/app asks you to make a payment this money goes direct to Meet Up and not to me. The only payment required to join is the £25 subscription. All the other extras are not necessary.
I book most of the holidays and weekends away with Vicky Broughton who works with Travel Counsellors. Here are a few words from Vicky ...
"I can help you with any of your travel arrangements, from a weekend away, your favourite place to visit, a new destination to explore or for the trip of a lifetime. I want to ensure that I can find your perfect holiday that is tailor-made to you. I will work around the hours you are available, to discuss and sort your travel arrangements. Please feel free to contact me by phone or email, I will be more than happy to help” Tel: 01507 462 581 / 07516 705441 Email: [vicky.langton@travelcounsellors.com](mailto:vicky.langton@travelcounsellors.com)”
Holidays can be booked with a deposit payment and the balance can then be split into monthly instalments. Please note that if you cancel a holiday once booked the deposit is not refundable.
I hope you enjoy your time with Peterborough Friends. Everyone is nervous at the start but we have all been there so please reach out to me and I will make your first event enjoyable. My phone number is 07712 107646 so please contact me at any time.
Melanie James