Amateur Astronomy

[Follow 👉this link👈 for more info, tickets are optional](https://thephotographersgallery.org.uk/whats-on) Join us for this free late opening: Michael Kenna: Shin Shin しんしん (...) long-exposure analogue landscapes Boris Mikhailov: Ukrainian Diary A major retrospective of work Zofia Rydet: Sociological Record (...) portraits of Polish domestic life Followed by social nearby: upstairs at The King's Arms in Poland Street. See comments below for updates.

**\*\*TO BOOK GO HERE [https://dateinadash.com/events/london/city-of-london/speed-dating/09Jan2026-7677](https://dateinadash.com/events/london/city-of-london/speed-dating/09Jan2026-7677)\*\*** Go on 15-20 dates at our popular Friday night Speed Dating event at [All Bar One](https://www.allbarone.co.uk/national-search/london/all-bar-one-houndsditch/#/) in the City of London. This event is for ages 36-55 (age guide) and has an equal ratio of men and women. Expect to meet a lots of single professionals at the best Speed Dating event in the City on Friday night. Easily one of our most popular events with a great crowd every week. Speed Dating kicks off at 8pm prompt and any guests arriving late may not be able to take part so please ensure you arrive 15-30 minutes before the scheduled start time to allow for registration. When all the guests have arrived the host will explain how the evening will unfold and you will be provided with a scorecard and pen. When the event begins women will be seated and men will rotate between tables every 4 minutes. At the end of each date guests mark on their scorecard or phone using our mobile website whether they would like to see that person again. The event will finish around 9:30pm but guests are welcome to stay and mingle if they wish. The following day we'll contact you with the results and you can communicate with anyone you've matched with through our website. Please be aware that speed dating places are limited and the majority of our events do sell out, so please book early to avoid disappointment. If you have any queries about this event please contact us at enquiries@dateinadash.com or call our telephone bookings hotline on 0845 862 1448 (9am 5pm).

**Pickering Walking Weekend – North York Moors** Join **Large Outdoors** for a relaxed, sociable walking weekend in the North York Moors, based in the market town of Pickering. This fully guided weekend is designed to make getting away for a walk straightforward, even if you’re travelling from London by train. **Save £100 per person with code PICKWINTER** The weekend focuses on steady, enjoyable walking across classic moorland landscapes, with plenty of time to chat as you walk and relaxed evenings afterwards. The pace is comfortable, and everything is organised for you, making it a good option if you want to switch off and enjoy the walking without planning logistics. Many people join **Large Outdoors** trips on their own, and this weekend is set up to feel friendly and welcoming from the outset. What to expect: – Small-group, sociable walking in the North York Moors – Fully guided walks at a steady, manageable pace – A hotel-based weekend with time to relax after walking – Evenings free for food, conversation, and winding down – Open to solo walkers, friends, and couples **Important – please read:** RSVP on Meetup does not book your place. To join **Large Outdoors** on this weekend, you must book directly through our website. Location: Pickering, North York Moors Full details & booking: [https://www.largeoutdoors.com/pickering-walking-weekend-discover-the-north-york-moors](https://www.largeoutdoors.com/pickering-walking-weekend-discover-the-north-york-moors) **Getting there from London by public transport:** Travelling from London is straightforward and works well by train. Trains from London King’s Cross reach York in around two hours. From York, it’s a short onward journey of one stop to Malton. We offer free collection from Malton train station and will transfer you on to Pickering. Exact collection times and arrangements are confirmed on the main event page, so please check the full details before booking. This makes the weekend a good choice if you don’t drive or prefer to travel by public transport.

BOOK YOUR TICKET 👉🏼 [HERE](https://itsadate.club/event/speed-dating-in-the-city-118/). Meet a social bunch of single guests as you enjoy 5-minute dates with 18 potential matches during this super-popular, fun, and fast-paced Friday night of introductions. Escape the ordinary at our popular Friday night speed dating event in The City. You will join 36 single guests in an intimate private space of this centrally located venue, just steps from Monument tube station. The Folly is a super-fun and lively environment with seasonal cocktails (we’d recommend the espresso martini), great service, and heaps of space to continue socialising after a busy evening of introductions. Our host will be at the venue ready to welcome you at 19:30. Please arrive on time for registration, to grab any drinks from the bar, and receive a summary of how things will work. You will be given an optional name sticker, a pen, and note card to keep track of everyone you’ve met. Ladies will be seated on tables adequately spaced, discreetly numbered, and arranged in a comfortable area of the venue. When speed dating commences, gents will join ladies for 5-minute dates to get to know one another. Your host will notify all guests at the end of each date, signalling for gents to move to the next table in ascending numerical order. During table rotations you will have a moment to record on note cards your feelings towards the previous date and intention to reconnect, for your reference only. Mid-way through the evening, your host will indicate a 15-minute comfort break to use the rest room, head to the bar, or socialise with new connections. Dating will then resume for the second half of the evening. At the end of the speed dating the bar will remain open for more socialising. You can then access the event listing in your dashboard to enter feedback on dates and await your matches. If you have any questions on the event or how things will work, please get in contact with James on 07517 065 492 or [james@itsadate.club](mailto:james@itsadate.club).

£5 January Special This is a very nice and pleasant walk, well worth doing, We will meet at Pre et manger {as map below} at 10.45 am for a hot drink, after our hot drink at 11.15 am we will begin our walk. This 6.5 mile long walk involves a fair bit of street walking but some very interesting ones. There will be plenty of references to famous people in the past, buildings with history, blue plaques - and with two definitive HIGH-lights, namely Primrose Hill and Parliament Hill, both with panoramic views. While the walk starts in busy Bond Street it soon winds its way through alleyways and quieter streets. It takes us through Regent's Park and, further along, to the small but delightful Belsize Village where we will have our lunch-stop. you can bring your own or Buy a sandwich or a drink in the village deli (which has a loo). The last mile of the walk, after taking in the view at Parliament Hill, is both quirky and elegant. The walk will finish at The Garden Gate Pub near Hampstead Heath Overground Station or you can walk to Belsize Park {Northern Line} which is 10-15 minutes away Please Note: Trainers would be OK to wear on this walk. Further information contact me on 07530 675739 {this is not a smart phone} or email paulc200850@yahoo.co.uk. JOIN OUR 45+ NOT GRUMPY FACEBOOK COMMUNITY <[https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/](https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/)>

BOOK YOUR TICKET 👉🏼 [HERE](https://itsadate.club/event/speed-dating-in-the-city-117/). Join London’s #1 dating events team and 36 outgoing, single guests for an action-packed evening of speed dating in The City. Located on Gresham Street, just a 3-minute walk from Bank Station, The Anthologist is a contemporary bar featuring a cosy private area reserved exclusively for your *It’s a Date* event. With its warm, welcoming vibe, a charismatic host, and a great crowd of outgoing single guests, you’ve got the perfect recipe for a fantastic Friday night of speed dating! Our host will be at the venue ready to welcome you at 19:30. Please arrive on time for registration, to grab any drinks from the bar, and receive a summary of how things will work. You will be given an optional name sticker, a pen, and note card to keep track of everyone you’ve met. Ladies will be seated on tables adequately spaced, discreetly numbered, and arranged in a comfortable area of the venue. When speed dating commences, gents will join ladies for 5-minute dates to get to know one another. Your host will notify all guests at the end of each date, signalling for gents to move to the next table in ascending numerical order. During table rotations you will have a moment to record on note cards your feelings towards the previous date and intention to reconnect, for your reference only. Mid-way through the evening, your host will indicate a 15-minute comfort break to use the rest room, head to the bar, or socialise with new connections. Dating will then resume for the second half of the evening. At the end of the speed dating the bar will remain open for more socialising. You can then access the event listing in your dashboard to enter feedback on dates and await your matches. If you have any questions on the event or how things will work, please get in contact with James on 07517 065 492 or [james@itsadate.club](mailto:james@itsadate.club).

**\# Unmissable Friday Night Social at the British Museum\! 🏛️✨** **\*Secure Your FREE Ticket with the museum Now!\* 🎟️** https://ticketing.britishmuseum.org/events?k=general%20admission Dive into an unforgettable evening of culture, connection, and celebration at the world-renowned British Museum in London! 🌍 Join us for an electrifying **\*Friday Night Social\***, where history meets modern-day merriment. With the museum’s doors open late, you’ll wander through awe-inspiring galleries brimming with treasures from ancient civilizations, all while forging new friendships in a vibrant, social atmosphere. Enjoy a guided tour led by an expert to deepen your appreciation of the museum’s wonders! 🗿📜 **\#\#\# Why the British Museum? 🏺** Founded in 1753, the British Museum is one of the oldest and most prestigious museums in the world, housing over **\*8 million artifacts\*** that tell the story of human history. From the enigmatic **\*Rosetta Stone\***, which unlocked the secrets of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs, to the majestic **\*Elgin Marbles\*** from the Parthenon, the museum is a treasure trove of cultural wonders. Its iconic **\*Great Court\***, with its breathtaking glass roof, is the largest covered public square in Europe—a perfect backdrop for an evening of exploration and connection. 🌟 Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, the museum’s galleries offer a captivating journey through time, from ancient Mesopotamia to the vibrant cultures of modern Africa. 🦒 **\#\#\# Event Highlights 🎉** This isn’t just a museum visit—it’s a \*dynamic social experience\* designed to spark connections and create memories! Here’s what’s in store: * **\*6:45 PM – Meet & Mingle\*** 🤝: Gather at the main entrance of the British Museum, where you’ll spot our group at the tall map stand on the right (check the uploaded photo for reference 📸). Can’t find us? If you enter via Montague Place, head to the main entrance and turn around to locate the meeting point. We’ll linger for 30 minutes, giving everyone time to join the fun. Expect lively conversations and a warm welcome as you connect with fellow adventurers! 😄 * **\*Explore the Museum\*** 🕵️‍♀️: venture into the museum’s captivating galleries in small groups or at your leisure. Marvel at the intricate **\*\*Benin Bronzes\*\***, stand in awe of the ancient **\*\*Egyptian mummies\*\***, or ponder the mysteries of the **\*\*Lewis Chessmen\*\***. With late-night access, you’ll experience the museum’s magic in a relaxed, crowd-free setting, perfect for soaking in the atmosphere and sharing your discoveries with new friends. 🌌 * **\*Reconvene at the meeting point at 8:15 PM\***. We will set off for the next venue at 8:30 PM. 🚶‍♂️ * **\*8:45 PM – Sip & Socialize\*** 🍹: The evening continues at the * ZEBRANO, SOHO, GREEK ST. Simply ask for **\*\*ZEN\*\*** at the bar to join the group. Note: Bring your ID, and dress to impress—no athletic tracksuits or sports trainers, please! 🕴️ * **\#\#\# Why You Can’t Miss This 🚀** This is your chance to experience the British Museum’s timeless wonders in a fresh, social way. Whether you’re a local or visiting London, this evening promises a perfect blend of **\*\*cultural discovery\*\*, \*\*meaningful connections\*\***, and **\*\*pure fun\*\***. From the museum’s storied halls, where artifacts have inspired scholars and dreamers for centuries, to the electric club vibe of Zebrano in Soho, this is a night you’ll talk about for years to come! **\#\#\# Important Details ℹ️** * **\*\*Dress Code\*\*:** Smart casual; no athletic tracksuits or sports trainers. 👗 * **\*\*Bring ID\*\*** for entry to the bar venues. 🆔 * **\*\*More Info\*\*:** Check the event page for additional details. 🌐 * **\*\*Join up now\*\*** \- if we have a lot of sign\-ups\, we may introduce a fee for any additional new joiners \(through the Meetup RSVP system\)\. Avoid this by signing up early\! ⏰ Don’t miss this chance to explore history, make new friends, and dance the night away in the heart of London. join us for an evening that’s as enriching as it is exhilarating! 🎉 NOTE WE HAVE A CERTAIN NUMBER OF FREE RSVPS WITH MEETUP (separate to the British Museum entry ticket). If you clicked attend and are on the attendees list it will say "you are going" in green at the bottom of the event oage. There's nothing else you need to do, you are in! AFTER THE FREE RSVPS ARE GONE THERE WILL BE A FEE. SO SIGN UP AND NOW IF YOU ARE INTERESTED. \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Some Tips:** 1. **Let’s all commit to updating our RSVPs if plans change**—it helps us plan better and ensures great attendance for everyone. If you RSVP “yes” but don’t attend and don’t update your RSVP, you may be removed from the group to keep things fair. No stress, though—you can rejoin for a small £10 fee! Just send me a DM, and I’ll share the PayPal details to get you back in. 2. **Turn Up on Time at the start!** This helps the quality of the event and helps you. 3. If you are struggling with the **app**, use the web page instead, that's what I use. 4. **Attendee Numbers & Guest Lists:** We have this event listed at least on two groups and the guest list includes attendees from all. You can see the list of attendees here: [https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/](https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/) [https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/](https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/) [https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife](https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife) 5. Join our **social media**: **Instagram**: [https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/](https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/) **X:** https://x.com/CityZenLondon 6. **Our WhatsApp group:** [See private comment in the comments section below]. We have a few rules including no ads, no DMs unless recipient is in the "Direct Messaging List" or risk removal and £10 rejoin fee. 7. **Support Our Amazing London Event Hosts! 🙌** Our incredible crew of hosts is the heartbeat of London’s buzzing meetup scene, bringing people together for unforgettable experiences that spark connection, growth, and fun! 🌟 From museum adventures to flirty dating mixers, these rockstar hosts pour their energy, time, and passion into creating events that level up your social and communication skills. But hosting isn’t easy—it takes resources, effort, and heart. 💖 Please consider supporting our hosts with a donation to keep the good vibes flowing and help us make London the ultimate social hub! 🚀 Below, meet our hosts for this event and see how you can chip in to fuel their amazing work. 8. To encourage signing up early to events and regulate the number of attendees a late joiner/overflow fee may be applied to an event for any **additional** people wanting to join the event. This may happen on the day or even an hour before the event. So there may be people who obtained a free RSVP to network with our group and some who had to pay. If you have successfully signed up to our event on meetup paid or not then you are in. Happy networking **Zen & The Meetup Groups** *The Visionary Social Connector* Zen, our AI guru with 25 years in the game, founded these meetups to transform his own social skills and now helps others do the same. From sparking in-person networking to coordinating epic events, Zen’s passion for connection is unstoppable. Help him keep the momentum going! Support Zen: Donate to cover event planning tools, venue bookings, and more. **[Donation Link](https://paypal.me/Zenswalks)** \*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Liability Waiver & Media Consent** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: **Organiser Identity** – The organiser operates under the community name **“ZEN”**, which is used as an alias for privacy and branding purposes. By joining, you understand that “ZEN” refers to the organiser and/or designated hosts of this event. **Assumption of Risk** – You understand and accept that participation in any social, recreational, or group activity involves inherent risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents. You voluntarily choose to attend at your own sole risk. **Personal Responsibility** – You are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and personal belongings at all times. It is your responsibility to exercise good judgment, act responsibly, and take appropriate precautions before, during, and after the event. **No Organiser Liability** – The organiser, hosts, volunteers, and the community known as **ZEN** accept no responsibility and shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage, accident, theft, or any other issue that may arise as a result of your participation. **Guests** – If you bring guests, you accept full responsibility for their conduct, safety, and understanding of this disclaimer. **Independent Event** – This event may be held in conjunction with other social or non-singles meetup groups. ZEN is not responsible for the actions, behaviour, or arrangements of any third parties. **Media Consent** – By attending this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded. You grant ZEN and its organisers the irrevocable right to use such images and recordings for promotional, marketing, social media, and community purposes without compensation or further approval. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, it is your responsibility to inform the organiser in advance and to remove yourself from areas where filming or photography is taking place. **Acceptance of Terms** – By attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted this disclaimer. You release ZEN, its organisers, hosts, volunteers, and members from all claims, demands, or causes of action, whether known or unknown, arising out of your participation or the use of photography/videography captured at the event. Your attendance at this event signifies your full acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree, you should not attend.

Join us for an evening at one of London's most amazing locations for night photography. Shooting around Tower Bridge we'll help you take photos of Tower Bridge, the City and the Shard at night. This workshop is aimed at everyone from beginners / refreshers to those who want to do night shooting in the safety of a group. EQUIPMENT * Tripod (necessary) * Any camera * Kit lens 24-70 or similar * A fun and experimental attitude! OTHER ESSENTIALS * Dress warmly and appropriately for the weather TRAVEL * Check the TFL website for any issues that might disrupt your journey CONTACT * Alex 07956 264049 OTHER EVENTS https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/calendar

Learn the skills needed to create great high contrast photos. Whether you want to shoot in black and while or colour you'll understand the elements needed to capture highly dramatic images. Join us for an after xmas event to help combat the lbs you might be putting on over the holidays! WHAT YOU WILL LEARN * How to spot good locations & conditions * Camera settings * Composition EQUIPMENT: * Any camera * Any lens such as a standard 18-55, 24-70mm etc. OTHER ESSENTIALS * A fun and experimental attitude! TRAVEL * As usual check TFL website for any issues that may delay your journey CONTACT * Alex 07956 264049 UPCOMING EVENTS www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/calendar

Discover how to transform buildings, lines, and light into striking abstract compositions. In this hands-on street workshop, we’ll explore how to see architecture beyond function focusing on geometry, reflections, contrast, and minimalism to create powerful visual stories. Perfect for photographers of all levels, whether you’re using a phone or a camera. **Location** We will meet outside of Marks & Spencer at 70 Finsbury Pavement, Moorgate, London EC2A 1SA Near Moorgate Station https://maps.app.goo.gl/iwuzLxrnBQewAWuc9 **Equipment** * Any camera or smartphone. * Fully charged battery + memory space. * Comfortable shoes. * Zoom lens or telephoto prime **Learning Goals** By the end of the session, you will: * Learn to observe and use natural light to highlight form and texture. * Apply composition techniques to create balance, symmetry, and abstraction. * Discover how to transform architectural elements into artistic expressions. * Develop a more intentional, fine art approach to architectural photography.

Learn the skills needed to create great high contrast photos. Whether you want to shoot in black and while or colour you'll understand the elements needed to capture highly dramatic images. Join us for an after xmas event to help combat the lbs you might be putting on over the holidays! WHAT YOU WILL LEARN * How to spot good locations & conditions * Camera settings * Composition EQUIPMENT: * Any camera * Any lens such as a standard 18-55, 24-70mm etc. OTHER ESSENTIALS * A fun and experimental attitude! TRAVEL * As usual check TFL website for any issues that may delay your journey CONTACT * Alex 07956 264049 UPCOMING EVENTS www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/calendar

Hello and welcome! 🙂 Join us for a relaxed, social walk through **Crossness Nature Reserve**, a hidden stretch of wetlands and open space along the Thames. With big skies, birdlife, and far-reaching views, it’s an ideal place to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with others at an easy, unhurried pace. **🌟 What to Expect** * A gentle group walk through nature * An easy way to meet new people with friendly conversations in a low-pressure setting * Learn to spot birds, trees, and seasonal changes you might normally miss * Discover how noticing more in nature can make everyday walks more calming * Leave feeling refreshed — with new connections to both people and nature Even if you’ve never thought of yourself as a “nature person,” this is a welcoming, easy way to get started — and see just how good it can feel. **Agenda** * Meet at 11am at the footpath off Norman Road leading to Crossness Nature Reserve. The footpath is Opposite Morgan Pub, Belvedere, DA17, 6BG * Begin walk at 11:10am * Walk will end around 13:00pm back at the Footpath off Norman Road, opposite Morgan Pub To help encourage people to sign up early there are usually some free spaces. After that the usual price will apply. Charging means I can keep devoting time to organising more events. Thank you for your support! **👋 About Your Host – Matt** I work as a doctor in A&E and I’ve always found that time spent outdoors helps me recharge, especially with the pressures of city life and work. I grew up in rural Devon and have spent thousands of hours immersed in nature — and I love showing others how even a short walk in the city can shift your mindset, boost your mood, and help you feel more present. No need to be a wildlife expert — I’ll point out birds and other wildlife along the way, and you’ll leave with a few simple tips to help you enjoy your own walks even more in future. This is a welcoming group — whether you come solo or with a friend — and a great way to combine light exercise, real conversation, and a bit of calm in your week. Hope to see you there! – Matt

Join us for a walk into an area steeped in history and diversity, this area is a living gallery, and a goldmine for graffiti and for black and white photography-textures, contrasts, and urban grit. You’ll find opportunities to experiment with framing, perspective, and light in ways that elevate your artistic storytelling. Slowing down to notice the details-hidden alleyway pieces, layered posters, or a stencil tucked behind a lamppost-sharpens your eye and aids mindful observation – something that can help any photographer in perfecting their craft. Join us for a colourful and fun session! EXPERIENCE * Any EQUIPMENT: * Any camera * A standard 18-55 kit lens will do or use a 70-200 for candid shots OTHER ESSENTIALS * Help will be provided with camera settings * A fun and experimental attitude! TRAVEL * As usual check TFL website for any issues that may delay your journey CONTACT Alex 07956 264049 UPCOMING EVENTS https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/calendar

Bring your Raspberry Pi, Arduino, microcontroller, or any other electronic project and join fellow electronics makers for a night of creativity and collaboration! This session is open forum to share your current projects—whether complete or in progress, it’s all interesting! Whether you’re deep into embedded systems, exploring new ideas, or just getting started, you’ll find a welcoming space to collaborate, share, and get inspired. I've been hardware hacking a See N Say to make it say whatever I want - while the project is in progress still, it should be working by this meetup! I'll bring it for demo. [See N Say Project](https://github.com/cdeever/esp32-see-n-say) While we continue to pursue a more permanent venue for this Meetup, we’ll be using public library facilities based on availability. This session will be at the Worthington Park Library in the Olentangy Meeting Room.

Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Grandview Grind! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!

This cutting edge rom-com translates the familiar "love triangle" to the 2025 luxury driven NYC culture. Can our successful matchmaker find true love herself? Watch it and cast your opinion at the group discussion,

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

Meditation practice with short sutra service, dharma talk and discussion.

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Java Central Café and Roaster](https://javacentral.coffee/)**!**