Tours

We will meet outside the Richmond tube station and make our way via the scenic Thames path. * We will walk towards the Richmond Bridge and cross the river. Then we will proceed via the Cambridge Gardens, Meadowbank and Marble Hill park to see the Marble Hill House, which is a Neo-Palladian villa, now Grade I listed. It was built between 1724 and 1729 as the home of Henrietta Howard, Countess of Suffolk, who lived there until her death. The compact design soon became famous and furnished a standard model for the Georgian English villa and for plantation houses in the American colonies. * We will then continue our walk via the Orleans Gardens and pass by the Orleans House gallery. Art lovers can always come back to visit the gallery, which is open Tue-Sun 10am – 5pm and it's a free entry. * We will then make our way to see the formidable York House and Gardens pictured above). This former stately home currently serves as the Town Hall of the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. * A short walk from there to see the Eel Pie Island. This was a famous Jazz venue in 1960s. The island has about 50 homes, 120 inhabitants and two or three boatyards, as well as some other small businesses and artists' studios. For brief periods each year, usually in June and December, 26 studios in and around a working boatyard, open to the public enabling them to enjoy and buy the artists' works. This is where the walk ends. Twickenham station is 10mins away, buses back to Richmond are 5mins away. Optional drinks/lunch at the local Weaterspoons after the walk. What to bring: Comfortable footwear Water Photo-taking gadgets and chargers An umbrella just in case (it's London after all) The walk is free for members who have subscribed for an annual membership. For other members the fee is £5 cash/card on arrival to contribute towards the organiser's meetup fees and costs. The annual pass option is £15 payable by PayPal on the group's page, or cash/card on the day. This will provide access to at least 40 walks per year (members are welcome to bring a guest to each event). All walks are free for the NHS staff (also welcome to bring a guest). ***'No Show' Policy:*** *If the member replied 'yes' but did not attend the event, did not update the RSVP and did not inform the organisers on 3 occasions – this triggers an automatic removal from the group. That's once for events with a waiting list.*

THE TRIP IS NOW FULL, IF YOU WISH TO ATTEND, ADD YOURSELF TO THE WAITING LIST AND I WILL CONTACT YOU IF A PLACE BECOMES AVAILABLE. Come along on Saturday 23rd May to visit two pretty market towns, a picturesque view in Gloucestershire and see some steam trains in action as part of the Cotswolds Festival of Steam! **About the day** Gloucestershire is a historic county to the south west of London, its a predominantly rural area which is bisected by the river River Severn. Part of Gloucestershire sits in the Cotswolds and has lots of honey-coloured pretty towns & villages. **Broadway-Cheltenham Train Route** Steam trains will be running along the Broadway-Cheltenham route on this day as part of the Cotswold Festival of Steam weekend. Its very expensive for a ticket - £37 plus per person, so instead we will be viewing the steam trains in action at various vantage points along the track for free at: \- Stanton Viaduct \(looking up as steam trains come over the viaduct\) \- Hailes Bridge \(looking down from the bridge as steam trains go under\) \- Winchcombe Greet Bridge \(as trains go into and out of a tunnel\) **Winchcombe** Winchcombe is a charming, less-crowded market town known for its authentic, medieval honey-coloured stone architecture and its independent shops and cafes. It was originally an Anglo-Saxon settlement, although the [Belas Knap](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belas_Knap "Belas Knap") Neolithic Long Barrow on Cleeve Hill above Winchcombe, dates from about 3000 BCE. **Painswick** Painswick is often regarded as a "hidden gem". Its known for its stunning 18th-century, grey-stone architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and the unique Rococo Garden, it offers a charming, less-crowded alternative to other Gloucestershire towns. It's church; St. Mary's is famous for having 99 Yew trees. **Painswick Beacon** Painswick Beacon is a 283-metre (928-foot) high Iron Age hill fort dated 400-100 BC offering 360-degree panoramic views of the Cotswolds, the Severn Vale, the Malvern Hills, and the Welsh Mountains. The beacon is only 1 mile from the village of Painswick, but we will use the coach to take us to the bottom of the hill, it'll then be a 10 min walk up the hill to see the view. **Coach seating** * If you wish to reserve a seat on the coach in advance, after you pay please look at the seating plan in the photos [here](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/35948261/533880318/) and then email me - [general@cultureseekers.org](http://general@cultureseekers.org), with the seat number/s you wish to reserve. Its first come first served. * The seat you sit on when you board the coach is yours for the day. If you wish to change seats on the coach during the day, you will need to get permission from the individual who is seated there. **Cost** Cost is £27 per person for Full Members and £33 per person for everyone else. After you RSVP: You will need to make payment (its not automatic), so either: \- send a bank transfer: TSB Bank plc\, sort code: 77\-66\-65\, account no: 00030809\, Account name: Cultureseekers \- Pay via credit card in advance \([https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QDOWSSXO](https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QDOWSSXO)) \- go to PayPal \- [https://www.paypal.com/uk/](https://www.paypal.com/uk/), ‘send a payment’ to general@cultureseekers.org and click on the ‘Goods & Services’ option and change it to ‘Friends & Family’, as this avoids a charge from PayPal. Once you RSVP and then pay, I will confirm your place. **Become a Full Member** To become a Full Member (£14 a year) either: \- Pay cash at an event \- Pay via Bank Transfer \(email me – general@cultureseekers\.org for details\) \- Pay via credit card on the day or in advance \([https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI](https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI)) \- Pay via PayPal\, send a payment to general@cultureseekers\.org\, using the ‘Friends & Family’ option You have 3 days to make a payment, if no payment is received within 3 days, your place will be offered to the first person on the waiting list. Benefits of becoming a Full Member [here...](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/531979527/) **Food & drink** Its up to you whether you wish to bring your own food and drink or purchase items whilst there. If you can't see us on Tothill Street, please text. Please note, we only wait for 10 minutes after the advertised meeting time, so please be early or on time. The coach has to leave at a specific time. Look out for the red and blue 'London Cultureseekers' group sign. Hope to see you there! Robert 07905 901 834 (prefer text) or email: [general@cultureseekers.org](general@cultureseekers.org) ***On the day, if you can’t make the visit, just change your RSVP to No or text me to say you can’t make it. Please don’t post any messages in the comments that you can’t make it, as this generates spam for everyone else.*** ***Please make sure you are aware of the group rules here before RSVPing - [https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/523578875/Group_Rules/](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/523578875/Group_Rules/)***

This walk is much more than the fascinating history of Clapham itself its a walking tour taking us through the wonderful open space of Clapham Common, once considered south London’s Hampstead, where the rich and famous fled the crowded city. Where the grand victorian houses overlooked the open spaces and the air was crisp and clear, yet still only a short journey back the the smoke and poverty of London town. Your guide Barrie knows the area very well as this was where he went to senior school back in the early 1960’s . For four years he was told stories of the heroes of Clapham though much of it went in one ear and out of the other as other teen age pursuits seemed more important at the time. Researching for this walk therefore has been a reawakening for Barrie as he shares with us what he never really took in all those years ago So come with him to hear stories of ‘The Clapham Sect’ and Clapham's; victorian splendour but also how Clapham became “Claaam” and has become a cool and trendy place to live right up to this day This tour takes a little over two hours and costs £14 cash on the day Contact barrie for bookings and queries on 07860 911393

**\*Free, but strictly limited spaces - please only RSVP if you fully plan on attending. If circumstances change, please update asap so those on waiting list can attend. See disclaimer below.\*** Join us for the LGBTQ+ highlights tour at the National Portrait Gallery. This tour explores the lives of individuals who have lived and loved outside societal expectations, and focuses on key figures throughout history whose identities, relationships, creativity and activism challenged norms around gender and sexuality in Britain. These tours are delivered by members of the Gallery's Visitor Experience team. [https://www.npg.org.uk/whatson/event-root/lgbtq-highlights-tour#acc61](https://www.npg.org.uk/whatson/event-root/lgbtq-highlights-tour#acc61) **Disclaimer - please read** This tour is free and open to the public, with no ticketing system or reserved spaces for attendees. Capacity is limited, so we’ll be meeting at 14:45 sharp for the 15:00 tour to maximise our chances of getting in together. To avoid oversubscribing the tour, attendance for this meetup has been capped at 6 people. If your plans change and you can no longer attend, please update your RSVP as soon as possible so that those on the wait list have a chance to take your place. *Please do your best to arrive on time, as latecomers may not be able to join if the tour reaches capacity.* **Social** We'll look at heading for a drink or two after the event at Half Way to Heaven.

Step into the gas-lit streets of Victorian London and uncover the chilling story of Jack the Ripper. This evening walking tour takes you deep into Whitechapel, where one of history’s most notorious serial killers stalked his victims. Follow your expert guide as you: Visit the actual sites of the Ripper’s murders Explore hidden alleys and cobblestoned lanes Hear the true stories of the victims and the suspects See rare photographs and police reports Learn how the crimes shocked London — and the world Your guide will separate fact from fiction, using historical evidence and forensic insight to paint a vivid picture of life in East London in 1888. ⚠️ **IMPORTANT**: Attendance Confirmation Required To help us manage attendance, please complete the form below if you will be attending. You will only be added to the confirmed list once the form has been completed. **Confirm here:** https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfO_ujT7S1q-3EiZgkxHfPxJGgG8CnlYNCrHqQkLPNXmEC4Gw/viewform?usp=header If you are unable to join, please just send us a message to let us know.

They say that pictures speak a thousand words, and so here are pics from this previous day trip on our website (click on the event) : [www.aaahiking.co.uk/day-hikes](http://www.aaahiking.co.uk/day-hikes) The video at the top was also a previous sunset Seven Sisters hike too. **DESCRIPTION** Please bring flip flops or sandals in yoir bag in case of river crossing Join us for this classic walk in the **South Downs National Park.** This is one of the most magnificent and justifiably well-known **13-mile walk** along the **South Downs way**. This is the classic version of the Seven Sisters starting from Eastbourne ending in Seaford. **WHAT TO EXPECT - HIKING INFO** Distance: **20km** Ascent: c.**550 metres** Estimated Duration (approx): \*\* 5-6 hours walking\*\* Difficulty: **[Energetic](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/hike-grade)** Meeting Point either Eastbourne station or **[London Victoria Station](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/meeting-places/)** (see pic in in link) in front of the ticket machines where the Benches are. Assembly time: 08:00 Move to departure platform: 08:15 Train leaves: 08:24 Train arrives at Eastbourne: 9:53 We'll aim for the 16:55 from Seaford train station back to London to arrive at Victoria 18:36 or slightly later by 30 mins or an hour. **Cliffs** **The Seven Sisters Cliffs are surprisingly fragile and at constant risk of collapse. Please refrain from getting close to the edge (ideally 3 metres)** **Pricing Info:** £10 for hike only tickets, you’ll need your own train tickets. For example a return to Eastbourne is around £30 at the moment. Then might need an additional connecting ticket on the day from Seaford to Lewes for around £3 though this one isn't always needed. Then the return covers the rest. **HIKE INCLUDES** * Guided Hike planned and led by experienced AAA leaders, trained Summer Mountain Leader with Wilderness First Aid Training. * PayPal fees **PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** * Travel costs (unless you selected that payment option) * Lunch, drinks or any refreshments * Souvenirs * Meetup Fee levied on all purchases via meetup * Entrance fees to any attractions you wish to visit **RECOMMENDED KIT LIST [(](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)[full list](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/kit-lists)[)](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)** * Suitable hiking shoes or boots * Waterproof jacket and trousers (Please no jeans!) * Water [2L recommended] * Warm/Windproof layer, e.g. Down/Primaloft/Fleece * Wicking base layer, e.g. Polyester/Tencil/Merino * Camera & Phone * Picnic lunch and snacks **CANCELLING/REFUNDS** If you can no longer join the event, please message the host and update your RSVP status on MeetUp to 'Not going', to allow others to take your place. If the event sells out, and you have messaged us and have changed your RSVP to 'Not going', please email us on [info@aaalondongroup.com](info@aaalondongroup.com) after the event date, requesting a refund, including your PayPal email address, so we can locate the payment. Unfortunately, as PayPal retains the original transaction fee, we cannot refund this. If the hike is not full, we are sorry, we are unable to issue a refund. **QUESTIONS** If you have any other questions, please check visit our[ FAQ page](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/faq). If you are still unsure, contact the event Host shown on this page. We have operated over 1,000 events without significant incidents in the last ten years, achieved through meticulous planning. All participants (members and their guests) in any AAA Hiking event or activity are personally responsible for their fitness, safety and welfare, and must be equipped accordingly. If you have signed up for the event, you acknowledge and accept the AAA Hiking Terms and Conditions. [FAQs](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/faq) \| [Terms and Conditions](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/terms-and-conditions) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/AAAhiking) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews) \| [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaahiking/) \| [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@aaahiking) \| [Trip Advicer](https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186338-d19994843-Reviews-AAA_Hiking_Outdoor_Group-London_England.html) \| [TicTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@aaahiking) \| [Website](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/) © AAA London Group Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted

Hi all, lets do a mellow art crawl of Mayfair! The event is Free and informal. We will meet in front of the Opera Gallery and see the following galleries: 1\. Opera Gallery 2\. Halcyon Gallery 3\. HOFA Gallery \(House of Fine Art\) 4\. Royal Academy of Arts 5\. Saatchi Yates \(optional\) 6\. Christies London \(optional\) Planned route on Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GgAEYgjXypQPxvod7 End at the Kings Head pub (2nd floor dinning area) - for social and time for reflection. (10 Stafford St, Greater, London W1S 4RX) I hope to you see you around, Cheers Craig \*Suggested donation £1 or a cup of tea/orange juice would be appreciated for planning & preparation. This event is free and no pressure on donations is ever given. LOCATION: I will be in front of the Opera Gallery. Dressed in a Green jacket. I will post closer to the time and in the comments.

**🎟 Ticketed Event - You must BOOK your spot on our website by paying £25 to secure your spot 🎟** Looking to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature? Our fully guided, women-only day hikes offer the perfect chance to explore awesome landscapes, connect with like-minded adventurers, and discover the great outdoors—all within easy reach of London. Whether you're trekking through rolling hills, lush woodlands or tranquil river banks, these hikes promise fresh air, epic views, and a rewarding day in the countryside. We’re thrilled to bring back three of our favorite adventures this year: the Wendover Loop, the Balcombe Loop, and the Epping Forest hike! So join us on one (or all!) of these fantastic walks and let nature work its magic—leaving you refreshed, inspired, and connected. **🌿 Location** 🌳 **Wendover Loop (15.5km) The Chiltern Hills at Their Finest** Lace up your hiking boots and explore the ever-changing scenery of the Chilterns, passing through hamlets, green woodland, and rolling farmland. Take in the views of Chequers, the Prime Minister’s countryside retreat, and enjoy a well-earned break at a quaint pub garden at the end. 📍 Wendover Train Station ⏰ 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM Moderate effort, Comfortable pace (3-4 km/hr) **✨ Why Join Us?** ✔ Fully guided hikes - book your spot, then just show up and enjoy the adventure ✔ Women-only walks, fostering connection and camaraderie ✔ Explore stunning countryside without the hassle of planning ✔ Unplug, recharge, and embrace the great outdoors Each route is easily accessible by train, so you can ditch the rat race and dive straight into nature with minimal effort. Come along and discover just how much wild beauty exists just outside London! 📅 Limited Spots Available—Reserve Yours Now! **Full Event Details: [Guided Hikes and Wildlife Walks UK](https://www.gutsygirls.co.uk/guided-hikes-and-wildlife-walks)** Ticketed Event - You must BOOK your spot on our website by paying £25 to secure your spot. **🔒 Gutsy Girls Ltd is a fully insured travel company.** **✅** If you'd like to join our adventures, you must book via our website. We don't monitor the comments on Meetup events. **➡️** Book Your Spot **[HERE](https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/afb8c352/?calendarIds=5694718)** **🐻 Why Gutsy Girls?** Gutsy Girls connects women through outdoor adventures, nature, and sports. Whether you're new to adventure or a seasoned explorer, we offer fun, friendly and supportive environments where every woman feels welcome. **🙌 Solo Adventures Welcome** Designed for solo travellers—90% join alone and find lifelong friends. If solo travel sounds daunting, don't worry! Our team ensures your journey is seamless, stress-free, and unforgettable. **⭐️ Highly Recommended** Don't just take our word for it; we've been recognised by the Guardian, The Times, and Stylist and more! Check out our 5-star reviews on **[Trustpilot](https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/gutsygirls.co.uk)** **🌍** Check out more of our adventures **[here](https://gutsygirls.co/3ITdPMN)** Follow us on **[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/gutsygirls_/)**

**Join London Tour Guide Duncan on this guided walk through Kennington — one of London’s most historic yet overlooked neighbourhoods.** On this walk you'll explore its rich history, from the medieval palace of the Black Prince to the birth of the Oval. Along the way you'll encounter chartists, cricketers, princes, and even a future Hollywood star. 📅 Date: Sunday 24th May ⏰ Time: 11am-12.30pm 📍 Meeting Point: Kennington Underground Station 🎟️ Tickets: £10 Book your tickets here: [https://kennington-from-palace-to-pavilion-5.eventbrite.co.uk](https://kennington-from-palace-to-pavilion-5.eventbrite.co.uk/)

Hi all, cost & info below, please join everyone for a brand new fun linear, healthy, scenic, choice of a 3 mile or 6 mile walk with some brief local info along the way while meeting new friends! ***Highlights are*** a delightful scenic walk along a canal and river, a rare photo opportunity to see Fish Island with stunning derelict factories (view before it all gets knocked down), Bryant and May factory which employed over 5,000 people (Britain sold over a quarter of a BILLION matches per day), a factory full of disease and the famous match girl strike of 1888. Also see Grade 1 listed, largest and most powerful tidal mill in the World, one of London's oldest surviving industrial heritage areas, 3 Mills which made Big Brother, Fantastic Mr Fox, Tim Burton's Corpse Bride, Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Master Chef and has rehearsal studios for Little Mix, One Direction, Paul McCartney, Beyonce, Lady Ga Ga and George Michael. A part of London lost in time, a 13th Century church that burned people at the stake, amazing modern art, an old wonderful dock, giant old stunning gasholders and a connection to the Gas and Coke Company, the site of the Big Breakfast House (Michael Hutchinson and Paula Yates interview on a bed) ***3 mile*** ends at Hackney Wick Overground Station (Please note: river walk, tidal mill, 3 Mills, amazing modern art, an old wonderful dock, giant old stunning gasholders not on this walk) ***6 mile*** ends at Star Lane (DLR Line) We are stopping at the halfway stage for 20-30 minutes at a riverside location cafe for toilets and refreshments Please meet outside the front of Mile End Station (Central Line, District Line, Hammersmith and City Line) **£10 cash/card payment by simply turning up on the day** At the end of the walk feel free to have drinks at a lovely pub to socialise. ABOUT OUR SECRET LONDON WALKS It is a 15-year fascinating journey together to explore the whole of beautiful, enchanting Secret London. The only walking group in the World offering this unique experience! The individual walks have been created from an original route several miles in length (usually on average about 50 miles) where we have checked every nook and cranny, every hidden alleyway, lane, lost cobbled path, cul de sac, avenue, road or street in that area for you! It is then shortened, to give back to you a magical walk with all the best bits of 'Lovely London', voted the best City in the World for the 10th year running! What is given back to you is the most scenic, healthy walk (usually 3-6 miles in length) with some of the walks containing hidden cobbled lanes, lost shops, secret gems, areas lost in time, wonderful views, idyllic Instagram photo shots and all sorts! Now and then some brief local info is mentioned or something of historical importance along the way. You will have plenty of time to chat and meet new friends whilst walking the amazing lost areas of London! So we welcome you to the colourful highlights of this fascinating City of London with simply wonderful things to see! TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE ensure ARRIVAL at least 15 minutes BEFORE the start of the walk, sorry no latecomers are accepted for whatever reason. Members attend the unique walks from our different meetup groups. IF LATE, SORRY WE ARE UNABLE TO RECEIVE CALLS OR ANSWER EMAILS AS WELCOMING MEMBERS, LEADING THE WALK, AND CONCENTRATING ON THE SAFETY OF THE GROUP. PLEASE DO NOT BE LATE, YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO CATCH THE GROUP UP, PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT. Part Tour - Medium pace walk from 'Visit England' Award-Winning Guide and our group featured in the National Press! Please Note: Some events, being a large attended meetup group will be an organised walk only, but members are very welcome to organise their own get-togethers after the event. You are required to be fit and healthy with appropriate footwear & clothing, responsible for meeting at the correct location, own safety and to not lose the group by viewing the organiser/making the organiser aware as much as possible, or follow/not lose sight of the person(s) from the same walk in front. We advise carrying water and some snacks. The organiser is also not responsible for any circumstances that may affect the group or personally such as personal accidents, rail information, engineering works, cancellations, rail strikes or delays, heavy traffic, tours affected, weather, walk paths or routes closed, postcodes for car parks or for when we arrive back at the station, or anything else not mentioned! By joining the event you agree to all the terms and conditions. We really look forward to welcoming you on the walks/tours for a wonderful, great, fun day!

They say that pictures speak a thousand words, and so here are pics from this previous day trip on our website (click on this event): [www.aaahiking.co.uk/day-hikes](www.aaahiking.co.uk/day-hikes) **Description** A dramatic coastal adventure with a vibrant finish. We’ll hike from Newhaven along stunning cliff-top paths with sweeping sea views, rolling downs and fresh ocean air. Expect big scenery, steady climbs and unforgettable coastal panoramas as we make our way toward Brighton. We finish in style on Brighton seafront, perfect for well-earned cocktails, food and sunset vibes. **WHAT TO EXPECT - HIKING INFO** Distance: **20km** Ascent: c.**376 metres** Estimated Duration (approx.): **5 hours walking** depending upon the speed of the group and excluding any breaks. Difficulty: **[Moderate](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/hike-grade)** **PROGRAMME** Meeting Point: NewHaven Town or **[London Victoria Station](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/meeting-places/)** (see pic in in link) in front of the ticket machines where the Benches are. Assembly Time: 08:15 Move to the departure platform at 08:35 The train departs at 08:45 The train arrives at 10:17 NewHaven Town We will aim for the 18:10 from Brighton back to Victoria for 19:15 **Pricing Info:** * £10 per person for hike only. You'd need to by your own tickets now as I have no more discounted group train tickets available. Example tickets might be a single to NewHaven Town, and a single back from Brighton. **HIKE INCLUDES** * Guided Hike planned and led by experienced AAA leaders, trained Summer Mountain Leader with Wilderness First Aid Training. * PayPal fees **PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** * Travel costs * Lunch, drinks or any refreshments * Souvenirs * Meetup Fee levied on all purchases via meetup * Entrance fees to any attractions you wish to visit **RECOMMENDED KIT LIST [(](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)[full list](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/kit-lists)[)](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)** * Suitable hiking shoes or boots * Waterproof jacket and trousers (Please no jeans!) * Water [2L recommended] * Warm/Windproof layer, e.g. Down/Primaloft/Fleece * Wicking base layer, e.g. Polyester/Tencil/Merino * Camera & Phone * Picnic lunch and snacks **CANCELLING/REFUNDS** If you can no longer join the event, please message the host and update your RSVP status on MeetUp to 'Not going', to allow others to take your place. If the event sells out, and you have messaged us and have changed your RSVP to 'Not going', please email us on [info@aaalondongroup.com](info@aaalondongroup.com) after the event date, requesting a refund, including your PayPal email address, so we can locate the payment. Unfortunately, as PayPal retains the original transaction fee, we cannot refund this. If the hike is not full, we are sorry, we are unable to issue a refund. **QUESTIONS** If you have any other questions, please check visit our[ FAQ page](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/faq). If you are still unsure, contact the event Host shown on this page. We have operated over 1,000 events without significant incidents in the last ten years, achieved through meticulous planning. All participants (members and their guests) in any AAA Hiking event or activity are personally responsible for their fitness, safety and welfare, and must be equipped accordingly. If you have signed up for the event, you acknowledge and accept the AAA Hiking Terms and Conditions. [FAQs](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/faq) \| [Terms and Conditions](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/terms-and-conditions) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/AAAhiking) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews) \| [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaahiking/) \| [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@aaahiking) \| [Trip Advicer](https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186338-d19994843-Reviews-AAA_Hiking_Outdoor_Group-London_England.html) \| [TicTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@aaahiking) \| [Website](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/) © AAA London Group Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted

Step into the gas-lit streets of Victorian London and uncover the chilling story of Jack the Ripper. This evening walking tour takes you deep into Whitechapel, where one of history’s most notorious serial killers stalked his victims. Follow your expert guide as you: Visit the actual sites of the Ripper’s murders Explore hidden alleys and cobblestoned lanes Hear the true stories of the victims and the suspects See rare photographs and police reports Learn how the crimes shocked London — and the world Your guide will separate fact from fiction, using historical evidence and forensic insight to paint a vivid picture of life in East London in 1888. ⚠️ **IMPORTANT**: Attendance Confirmation Required To help us manage attendance, please complete the form below if you will be attending. You will only be added to the confirmed list once the form has been completed. **Confirm here:** https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfO_ujT7S1q-3EiZgkxHfPxJGgG8CnlYNCrHqQkLPNXmEC4Gw/viewform?usp=header If you are unable to join, please just send us a message to let us know.

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Here is the secret of being positive and free: Thinking positively is not enough. You also have to get rid of the negative thinking. Your mind is like a garden. You can plant many beautiful flowers in it, but if you don't get rid of the weeds when you plant your flowers, the weeds will soon take over the whole garden. A positive thought is like a flower in your mental garden, and a negative thought is like a weed. You cannot expect to have a positive mindset if you continue to have negative thoughts dwelling and growing there. So, how do you get rid of the negative thoughts? That's what this Meetup is all about. Attend this local meeting and find out! The Meetup event will be led by a consultant who had helped many people live happier in life. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Dianetics & Scientology life improvement center.

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.