Caving

**It's been a while! -** Kickstarting this Meetup Group for 2026 Been anyway cool in 2025? What do you have planned for 2026? Let's meet up on 30th December, Double-Eve of the New Year, for a couple of post-Xmas drinks and a catch-up, or a welcome if you've joined recently. No particular agenda or structure, just a few (maybe more than a few) people who exercise their passports frequently & are looking for some new ideas, or some good stories. It's in that awkward week when nobody knows what day it is, but the 30th should be (mostly) OK for travel to London Bridge area. Hope to see you there - and feel free to drop questions or comments in the messages.

First of all...Attention this is a BIRDING TRIP and a HIKE which will involve stopping, waiting and looking for birds. Time to take an easy walk along the coast to my happy place, I am not feeling like hiking hills and travelling too far away on this day so let's hop on a train to the coast of Kent and breath in the fresh air! If you want wild traditional English Coast, this is a place to go to. Pebble beaches. swamps, surrounded by nature reserves, golf courses and manor houses, without the crowd of Brighton or Eastbourne. This trip should be quite an experience, whether you like birds or not, being surrounded by flying owls is quite something and my number one favourite nature show so why not try it out?! I do recommend cameras and binoculars as you never know what surprise you can get in this magical place! We will look for wildlife but the star of the day will be the short eared owls! If the weather allows, they can put up quite a unique show and will flight just a meter or two away, in some cases, not caring the least about any of us, so if you are a photographer or a birder, or want to witness something difference, this is your trip! Of course, it is nature, I cannot commend the owls to come out in the middle of the day but they usually do unless there is a lot of wind so we have got many chances to live the show from the front row seats The area is a well known nature reserve with one of the largest.concentration of overwintering owls in the country, there were at least nine the last time I came so let's hope for some lucky day! We will walk along and will stop for photos whenever we spot one of those gorgeous feathery friends. This year is one of the most exceptional for the shorties, as we call them in the country and populations at a number rarely seen before have just arrived from Russia and Scandinavia. I do recommend cameras and binoculars as you never know what surprise you can get in this magical place! We will look for wildlife but the star of the day will be the short eared owls! If the weather allows, they came put up quite a unique show and will flight just a meter or two away in some cases not caring the least about any of us, so if you are a photographer or a birder, this is your trip! The area is a well known nature reserve with one of the largest concentration of overwintering owls in the country, there were at least nine the last time I came so let's hope for some lucky day! We will walk along and will stop for photos whenever we spot one of those gorgeous feathery friends. This year is one of the most exceptional for the shorties, as we call them in the country and populations at a number rarely seen before have just arrived from Russia and Scandinavia. France is right across the Chanel and we might spot the white cliffs of Calais on a clear day. This is a lovely walk, flat and easy, great for beginners of for people who just want to spend a day out on the Coast without too many human activities around. The area is one of the prime migratory routes for birds in Britain and host an impressive list of rare bird species from around the globe over wintering. A colony of harbour seals also inhabit the nearby bay so we might even spot one or two at hight tide. [Sandwich Bay](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandwich_Bay,_Kent) is home to [nature reserves](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nature_reserve) and two world-class [golf](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golf) courses, [Royal St George's](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_St_George%27s) and [Prince's](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prince%27s_Golf_Club,_Sandwich) where golfers are used to being interrupted by hunting short eared, barn and long eared owls, quite peculiar isn't it? The town is also home to many educational and cultural events. Sandwich also gave its name to [the food](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandwich) that you like by way of [John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Montagu,_4th_Earl_of_Sandwich), who didn't actually live in Sandwich... ATTENTION: PLEASE WEAR WARM CLOTHING. WE WILL STAY AT THE SAME SPOT FOR ABOUT an HOUR TO WAIT FOR THE OWLS and will spend some time in a hide for lunch to spot snipes, jack snipes, avocets and other birds. Those who wish are welcome to join for a delightful diner at a Turkish restaurant afterwards. It is located next to the station so if you prefer to head back home, just jump on the train. DISTANCE: 10 miles/16km DIFFICULTY: Easy/no major climb PRICE: £17 for the guide's fee £30 in cash for the return train journey. INCLUDED: Guide fee A lovely time with the loveliest people, also called Jonions NOT INCLUDED: Transport: Will cost about £30(roughly) for the return train ticket Please bring cash on the day to get a discounted group ticket. Food Anything not mentioned above WHAT TO BRING: A packed lunch Cash for the transport Weather appropriate clothing(Think winter, you will get wet) Preferably hiking shoes, unless you wish your shoes to die. They will! MEETING POINT: London St Pancras at 9:30 am I will send the location when I am there. ATTENTION: Our trips will not be cancelled due to weather conditions so please ensure that you do wear and carry appropriate clothing. 😄 As you can see, my humour is terrible, good luck with that but know that I take care of my Jonions and read the bit about discrimination please, if you are racist, homophobic, cannot accept that people have other opinions or mental health issues, this might not be a trip for you. If you aren't any of the above, we will love you so, come on, press the button. POLICIES: 1: This group is designed for the pleasure and enjoyment of all of us, we do not accept any derogatory comments or behaviours towards anyone. Racism, discrimination and other unacceptable behaviours will only lead to your rejection to any of our trips and this without exception. Everyone is welcome, we have religious and non-religious people, gay, straight, bisexual people, all shades and colours or nationality, people of all ages, sex and political believes and mutual respect is the fundamental spirit of this group. 2: Our trips are only refundable up to 14 days before departure, if you wish to cancel after that, you will be offered a transfer to another trip for the same price or you may resell your slot to somebody else. 3: If we do cancel the entirety of the trip on our side, you will be fully refunded,

Kickstart the New Year with an unforgettable hiking adventure in the stunning Lake District! **Return train travel from London and hotel accommodation included!** \*\*\* Escape the hustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature as you explore crisp winter trails, climb breathtaking peaks, and take in panoramic views. This New Year hiking trip offers the perfect balance of outdoor adventure and relaxation, allowing you to reset and start the year feeling refreshed and inspired. After each hike, return to our cozy pub accommodation where you can relax by the fire, enjoy delicious local food, and share stories with fellow travellers. Whether you're setting new goals or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this trip is the ideal way to begin the year surrounded by the beauty of the Lake District. **Trip Highlights** 🏞️ Stunning hikes through snow-kissed mountains and valleys ❄️ Fresh, crisp air and breathtaking winter views 🥾 Tailored hikes for all fitness levels 🏠 Cozy evenings with roaring fires 🍲 Delicious local food and drinks 🎉 Celebrate New Year's Eve surrounded by nature and adventure 🌟 A perfect way to refresh, recharge, and start the year Set new goals, embrace the adventure, and begin the year with the beauty of the Lake District! \*\*\* **ITINERARY** **Tuesday, 30 December** * 🚉 Meet outside Euston train station around 9am for a relaxing train journey north to the enchanting Lake District. * 🏔️ Your friendly guide will greet you on arrival and transport you to your cozy Eskdale accommodation, nestled among the mountains, where you’ll be staying for three nights. **Wednesday, 31 December (New Year’s Eve)** * 🥾 Kick off the day with an easy circular hike directly from your accommodation, taking you over a local Wainwright hill. Feel the invigorating mountain air as you stretch your legs and enjoy the stunning views—perfect for setting the tone for the festivities ahead! * 🏠 Return to your cozy pub accommodation to freshen up and prepare for a night of celebration as you say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new one in style! Enjoy a festive dinner and drinks with fellow adventurers as the countdown begins! **Thursday, 01 January (New Year’s Day)** * 🌅 Start the New Year with a hearty breakfast, and if you’re feeling adventurous, consider a refreshing dip in the local river to shake off any post-celebration cobwebs! * 🏞️ Embark on another circular hike to soak in the breathtaking beauty of the Lake District, exploring its hidden gems and picturesque landscapes. This is your chance to enjoy the serene tranquility of the park on the first day of the year! **Friday, 02 January** * ☕ Enjoy a final breakfast at your accommodation before packing your bags and heading to a charming local town or village for lunch, allowing you to savor the flavors of the Lake District one last time. * 🚆 Afterward, your guide will transport you to the train station for your return journey home, feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and inspired for the year ahead! \*\*\* **DIFFICULTY:** This trip is designed to be a relatively **easy** 4-days, perfect for those looking for a relaxed New Year in The Lake District. The hikes are gentle, with manageable distances and minimal steep terrain, making it suitable for all fitness levels. No prior hiking experience is needed—just enthusiasm! Your **experienced guide** will ensure a comfortable pace, keeping everyone safe, happy, and able to enjoy the beautiful surroundings at their own speed. **TRANSPORT:** Return train journey from London and short distance minibus transfers in The Lake District **ACCOMMODATION:** Single-sex twin/double rooms in a cosy pub/hotel on the quieter side of The Lake District \*\*\* **Join us for an unforgettable weekend of adventure in The Lake District! Reserve your spot now and prepare to see in 2025 in the most beautiful places in the world!** **COST:** £795 (or £695 if booked before 30 August 2025) *To join us, simply RSVP and pay the £100 deposit. We will then be in contact with more information, including a detailed itinerary and kit list.* **INCLUDED IN THE PRICE** • Return train travel from London to The Lake District • Road transfers and logistical support in The Lake District • 3-nights hotel accommodation • Breakfasts • Guiding hiking with a highly experienced and qualified Winter Mountain Leader • Use of our winter kit, if required (crampons, ice axe, helmet) **NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE** • Personal hiking kit • Lunches and Dinners \*\*\* *All City Mountaineering trips are compliant with the 2018 Package Travel regulations (including financial protection)* ***Please be aware of our [Participation Statement](https://www.citymountaineering.com/participation-statement) and [Terms & Conditions](https://www.citymountaineering.com/terms-and-conditions) prior to joining***

Are you tired of the usual expensive and boring New Year's Eve parties? Join us for a unique adventure to start 2026! 🎆 I'm **Francesco**, a biologist and explorer. I have organized a **7-day trip to Romania** (Dec 30 - Jan 6) that combines an authentic Urban NYE with a wild Road Trip into the heart of Transylvania. **🗺️ THE PLAN** **PART 1: The Urban Warm-up (Dec 30 - Jan 1)** 📍 **Timișoara:** We will explore the "Little Vienna" of Romania. * No tourist traps: we’ll hunt for **hidden Jazz Clubs**, drink fresh unpasteurized beer at the factory, and explore the communist history. * **NYE Night:** We celebrate in the main square with the locals and fireworks, then move to a cool pub to welcome the new year. **PART 2: Into the Wild Road Trip (Jan 1 - Jan 5)** We pick up our car and head to the mountains! 🚗 * 🦬 **Wildlife:** We’ll track **European Bisons** in the snow at the Hațeg Reserve. * 🏰 **Gothic Vibes:** Visit **Corvin Castle** (one of the spookiest and most beautiful castles in Europe). * ❄️ **Snow & Trekking:** Base in **Sibiu** (Medieval city) + a day of accessible winter hiking in **Păltiniș**. * 🧊 **The Ice Hotel:** Driving the legendary **Transfăgărășan Road** up to the frozen Bâlea Waterfall to see the famous Hotel of Ice. **👀 WHO IS THIS FOR?** I'm looking for 2-3 chill, open-minded travel buddies (20-40s). If you prefer nature, good conversations, and a snowy adventure over a chaotic disco, you are the perfect fit! **💰 COSTS & LOGISTICS** I have already arranged the logistics (Car Rental + Itinerary). * **Style:** Low-cost but smart (Hostels/Guesthouses). * **Budget:** We share the costs (Fuel/Food) and there is a fixed fee that covers the **Car Rental and Accommodation** for the whole week. **📅 DATES:** Dec 30th to Jan 6th. **📍 MEETING POINT:** Timișoara. **👉 HOW TO JOIN:** This is a small group (max 4 people in the car). **Send me a direct message here on Meetup or contact me on IG: pangolin_travel.**

📈**GRADE 🥾🥾🥾 Level 3/5** —— **⛳️MEETING POINT & TIME** **Option 1️⃣** **👉🏻London Marylebone Train station** Main ticket Office \| **08:20** 👉🏻Train departure **08:42** ➡️ Princes Risborough **09:25** \| *Direct Train* **Option 2️⃣** **👉🏻**Outside **Princes Risborough train station** \| **09:30** —— **📍HIKE START** ***-* Princes Risborough** train station \| **09:40** 🏁**HIKE FINISH** ***-* Saunderton** train station \| **\~16:30-17:00** —— **📖SUMMARY** Enjoy a scenic 21.4km (13.3mi) journey through the **Chilterns National Landscape**, exploring peaceful beech woods, rolling hills and fascinating historic sites. Starting from Princes Risborough, we’ll make our way through **Bradenham Wood** and **Hangings Plantation** before stopping for a relaxed lunch break and an ⭐️**optional** **visit**⭐️ to the atmospheric **Hellfire Caves**. From there, we’ll follow an easy climb up to the impressive **Dashwood Mausoleum**, where sweeping valley views await. We’ll end with a gentle descent to Saunderton Station for a smooth journey home. —— **🌟HIGHLIGHTS** * **Bradenham Wood** – Classic Chilterns beech woodland with peaceful trails and gentle hills. * **Hangings Plantation** – Quiet forest paths and lovely viewpoints across the valley. * **Hellfire Caves Visit** – Explore one of the region’s most atmospheric and historic cave systems. https://www.hellfirecaves.co.uk/history * **Dashwood Mausoleum** – Commissioned in the 1760s by Sir Francis Dashwood, founder of the notorious Hellfire Club and owner of West Wycombe Park. Built in a classical style and inspired by Italian architecture, it was intended as a grand memorial for the Dashwood family. The mausoleum stands beside the Church of St Lawrence and contains memorial plaques and urns dedicated to family members and close associates. Its prominent hilltop location made it both a statement of status and a symbolic landmark overlooking the Dashwood estate and the Chiltern Hills. —— **📈TRAIL DETAILS** * This is a **Point-to-Point** * **Princes Risborough *➡️* Saunderton** * **Distance** 21.4km (13.3mi) * **Total Ascent** 609m * **Total Descent** 595m * **Max elevation** 216m * **Duration** 5 hours including breaks * **Difficulty** 🥾🥾🥾**Grade 3/5** —— 💷**COST** **Free** This hike is completely **free to join** but participants need to purchase their own transport tickets. —— **ℹ️ HELLFIRE CAVES TICKET INFORMATION** * During our lunch break, there will be an ⭐️**option to visit the Hellfire Caves**⭐️These unique and dramatic 18th century caves take you deep underground into the Chiltern hills. An atmospheric highlight not to miss ! * Cost **£9.50** * https://www.hellfirecaves.co.uk/history —— 🎟️ **TRAIN TICKET INFORMATION** * **Super Off-Peak Return London Marylebone 🔁 Princes Risborough (direct) with a Network Railcard is £19.30** (instead of the usual \~£29). * 💡If you’d like to join other hikers using a Network Railcard, please arrive earlier so we can organise small groups. Note that each card can cover up to 4 people. * More information at https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/ —— 🎒 **WHAT TO BRING** * 1-2L water * Packed lunch and snacks * Comfortable walking/hiking shoes * Weather-appropriate clothing (layers, waterproofs, hat, sunscreen) * Optional: trekking poles, camera, binoculars —— ✅**WHO CAN JOIN** • 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Our hikes are open to adults aged 21 and over. • 👶 For safety reasons, we’re not able to include children. • 🐾 We love animals, but pets (including dogs) can’t join our hikes. • ☑️ Everyone is welcome to RSVP, but to keep things fair for all members: \- If someone often cancels last minute or misses hikes without notice\, they may be placed on a waitlist or removed from the group for future events\. \- We do a quick check\-in on the day of the hike\, which helps us keep track and make sure spaces are available for those who really want to join\. —— ⚠️**SAFETY** As adults, you are fully responsible for your own safety and decisions throughout the walk. —— 📌**NOTES** * This is a group hike led by volunteers. Everyone is welcome to join. * A few wrong turns? That’s part of the fun! * While you're free to “hike your own hike,” we encourage group participation, get to know one another, make new friends, and enjoy the journey together. * Food options are limited en route, bring lunch. —— 🚨**DISCLAIMER** **Event Participation Disclaimer** * By signing up for an event we host, you acknowledge and agree to the following: * The organisers are not qualified hiking leaders, certified first aiders, or formally trained in navigation, survival, or any related disciplines. * These hikes are informal, self-guided gatherings of like-minded individuals. * The hosts expressly disclaim all responsibility and liability for any injuries, accidents, or safety incidents that may occur during participation. * Participation is entirely voluntary, and all attendees are solely responsible for their own safety and well-being. * These events are non-commercial and are organised purely as a recreational hobby, with no business or financial interests involved. * Hiking and outdoor activities inherently carry risks of personal injury. By choosing to participate, you accept these risks and take full responsibility for your own actions and decisions. —— 🚨**GENERAL GROUP POLICY** * Voluntary Participation: Attendance is at your own risk. The group and hosts bear no liability. * No Professional Duty of Care: Hosts are volunteers, not trained guides or medical professionals. * Insurance Is Your Responsibility: If desired, you must arrange your own personal insurance. * Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles at all times. * Emergency Preparedness: You are responsible for organising your own emergency plan. * Weather and Safety: Events may be cancelled or changed if conditions are deemed unsafe. * Self-Assessment Required: You must honestly assess your fitness and ability to keep pace with the group. * No Guaranteed Rescue: While help may be offered, full rescue capabilities should not be expected. * No Minors Without Guardians: Participants must be over 21. * Right to Refuse Participation: Hosts may turn away any individual who appears unprepared or poses a safety risk to others. * First Aid Preparedness Encouraged: It is highly recommended that each participant carries a small first aid kit for minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, bites, and blisters. —— 🚨**FINAL ACKNOWLEDGMENT** * By attending this event, you confirm that you are participating voluntarily and at your own risk. Neither the host nor the group accepts responsibility for any injury, loss, or damage incurred.

**About** THE CASTLE CLIMBING CENTER has about 135 roped/auto-belays numbered routes with each route having up to 6 grades giving it approx 700 routes in total. THE CASTLE CLIMBING CENTER offers bouldering, top-roping, leading and auto-belays at their center. Some of us prefer bouldering while others will be in the top roping, leading or auto-belaying - this is up to you! We climb for a couple of hours and then the group regroups at 12.00 noon sometimes without me other times with me in The Brownswood pub, 271 Green Lanes, Finsbury Park, London N4 2EX for a spot of lunch and a libation. (https://goo.gl/maps/S4FZ9j1AYMPDs7uQ6) a stone's throw from the castle. **Meetups** We get together every Thursday & Sunday at THE CASTLE CLIMBING CENTER meeting at 9:00am in the warming up area or else look out for someone wearing a black RAMS t-shirt around the center. If you're joining for the first time let us know via message and we will keep an eye out for you at the start :) **New Climbers!** Unfortunately, if you haven't climbed before it isn't as easy as just turning up and climbing up the wall. To climb safely you need to understand the hazards and be able to use the equipment correctly. You must have basic climbing skills and know how to put on a harness, attach a rope to a harness using a rethreaded figure of eight(figure of eight on the bight) and know how to use a belay device to pay out the rope and secure a falling climber etc. So before your first climb, you may be required by the climbing center to fill out health and safety forms. This may involve a quick test on climbing rules at the counter on arrival. Please add an extra 10/15 minutes before your session if you need to register for the first time. THE CASTLE CLIMBING CENTER terms and conditions will apply. Please also note signing up for the Meetup session won’t necessarily grant you access to the center. **Other communication** Within these groups, you are possibly likely to develop long-lasting friendships. Don't forget we have a Discord page and WhatsApp https://chat.whatsapp.com/JNJ81oLSKB2JGaNm79em0C. The group will always be very varied when it comes to climbing levels, abilities and modality preferences. Do shout out if you have any questions. If you want to have a chat about this or other meetups, or just to keep in touch, ask to join us on Discord and/or WhatsApp. We have a dedicated THE CASTLE CLIMBING CENTER chat, but also talk about all things climbing (and some non-climbing!) including trips, gear talks and looking for climbing partner/s situations. **You’ll Rock it** A word of warning this sport is very, very addictive once bitten your its mistress for life. The simple challenge of you against the rock is sublime, there are competitions but then really the only real competition is 'you and the rock'. As climbing can be a very social activity we look forward to sharing our passion with yours. *Happy climbing!* p.s. Eventually, we will be starting and incorporating our climbing academy where we aim to bring skills, ropework and technique etc to enhance your climbing ability, using 25mm chalk bag colored belts to indicate your level. Naturally, THE CASTLE CLIMBING CENTER will also run courses to help improve your techniques too. Contact THE CASTLE CLIMBING CENTER for more info.

Every Friday from 7-8pm we’ll be hosting a Queer Climbers Social where you’ll get to meet other Queer Climbers, work on your projects together, and hang out! ‍ This social is aimed at boulderers of all levels, whether you are just starting your climbing journey or have been bouldering for years, everyone is welcome. Our instructors are here to give you all the handy hints and tips you need. ‍ These sessions are run by LGBTQIA+ Team Members when possible! ‍ Entry: £9.50 (shoes included) You must RSVP by 6.30pm on the day of the event to get this discount. As we have to provide a list of names. You can always join on the door too. If you don't have shoes you can rent them there on the day also.

## 🥾 **New Year Noodle – Vauxhall to Victoria Walk** See in the last afternoon of the year with a friendly **urban adventure through London’s iconic landmarks and hidden green spaces**. Starting from **Vauxhall Underground Station**, we’ll wander through **Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens** and **Archbishop’s Park**, then cross the **Westminster Bridge** for skyline views of Big Ben and the **Palace of Westminster**. We’ll pause in **Deans Yard** beside **Westminster Abbey**, stroll through the serene **College Garden**, **St John’s Gardens**, and **Millbank Gardens**, then follow leafy paths through **Pimlico** and the **Churchill Gardens Wildflower Meadow**. The route continues via elegant **Warwick Square** before finishing at **Victoria Station**, just in time for an optional celebratory drink at **The Willow Walk Pub**. A relaxed, social 10 km stroll to close out 2025, perfect for meeting like-minded Londoners and soaking up the festive spirit before the fireworks begin! *** ### 🕘 Schedule & Meeting Info **Start:** 13:00 – Vauxhall Underground Station (Lambeth Place Exit) **End:** Victoria Station (optional drinks at The Willow Walk Pub) **Distance:** 10 km **Duration:** ≈ 3 hours **Grade:** Beginner 🥾 **Pace:** Relaxed and social, with plenty of photo stops **Price:** This is free walk but donations to our chosen Christmas charity Jaya Mental Health would be greatly appreciated please donate via the JustGiving page 🙏 [[https://www.justgiving.com/charity/jayamentalhealth](https://www.justgiving.com/charity/jayamentalhealth)](💰 Cost. suggested donation £5 *** *** ### 🎒 What to Bring ✅ Comfortable walking shoes or trainers ✅ Warm layers & waterproof jacket – winter weather can change quickly ✅ Water & snacks ✅ Contactless or Travelcard for travel *** ### 💬 What to Expect Join a welcoming community of Londoners, expats and solo adventurers for this easy, social walk through historic and scenic parts of London. No hiking boots required — just bring good vibes and festive cheer! 🧭 Led by qualified and insured GO London Hiking leaders experienced in group management and urban navigation. *** ### 📲 Stay Connected 📱 WhatsApp: 07968585224 📩 Mailing List: [Go London](https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk/contact) 🌐 Website: [www.golondonhiking.co.uk](https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk) 🎟️ Eventbrite Page: [GO London Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/go-london-hiking-17576718759) 📸 Instagram: [@golondonhiking](https://www.instagram.com/golondonhiking/) 👍 Facebook Page: [Go London Adventure](https://www.facebook.com/GoLondonAdventure/) 👥 Facebook Group: [Go London Hiking](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoLondonHiking/) ### London New Year’s Eve walk, London urban hike, guided walk London, Vauxhall to Victoria walk, South Bank walk, Westminster Bridge walk, London parks walk, New Year’s Eve things to do London, London social walk, meetup hiking group, GO London Hiking, walking events London, outdoor social London, winter walk London

Join us for our weekly Fems and Thems Climbing Social, a welcoming space for women and non-binary climbers to connect, climb, and have fun! Whether you're new to climbing or a seasoned pro, this social is all about building a supportive community and celebrating our shared love for the sport. This is a relaxed, no-pressure environment designed to help you enjoy climbing while meeting like-minded people. Open to all women and non-binary folks aged 18 and over. Cost: £16 regular peak time entry at Bethwall Climbing centre (£2 registration fee might apply) + £4 rental shoes (chalk is provided Come solo or bring a friend – everyone is welcome! Let’s climb, chat, and share some good vibes. We can’t wait to see you there! For any questions or accessibility inquiries, feel free to contact us in advance.

**Start the new year with a Braver Angels gathering focused on speaking openly and listening deeply.** **In small, structured groups, each person will have five minutes to share a political or social issue that matters to them and why- no debate, no interruption, just genuine curiosity.** **Participants will practice curiosity, reflecting back values and emotions they hear, asking thoughtful questions, and- only with permission- offering their perspective.** **It’s a simple and powerful way to connect with one another and begin the year with a respectful and courageous conversation.** **Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026** **Time: 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm** **Place: Columbus Metropolitan Library, Southeast Branch, 3980 Hamilton Rd, Groveport, Ohio** **All are welcome- bring a friend!** For additional information contact: Lee Evans at [LEvans@BraverAngels.org](mailto:LEvans@BraverAngels.org)

CHANGED to WEDNESDAYS COLUMBUS RECREATION CENTERS require membership fee to play. Register & Pay at the desk when you arrive. $5 day pass is available. I have some extra pickle ball paddles and balls if you don’t have one. Definitely bring your own paddle if you have one and bring some balls if you have them. Legal Stuff: The event hosts/Organizers are just fellow member volunteers. By participating in any event, you assume all risks of liability and injury inherent in these activities. You are responsible for your own safety and for determining if you are in condition fit to participate. You are also responsible for knowing and abiding by all laws and rules during your participation in any event.
 Photos & or Video: by attending these events you acknowledge photos and or video may be taken and used on this and other platforms.