Amusement Parks

VANDOME CYCLES is resuming social cycling (learn to ride and rider development) at Jim Peters Stadium, Mayesbrook Park RM8 2BB every Wednesday from 2 September 2020 at 4pm. For more information and to make a booking email : info@vandomecycles.co.uk

Hosts: Panagiotis and Yash \*This event is a collaboration with other meetup groups and social networks and it will be well attended \*To attend this event you need to buy a ticket from [https://www.fatsoma.com/e/l02w4ic1/big-new-year-s-eve-singles-party-in-soho-with-karaoke-fireworks-screening-2-djs-with-welcome-glass-of-prosecco-all-ages](https://www.fatsoma.com/e/l02w4ic1/big-new-year-s-eve-singles-party-in-soho-with-karaoke-fireworks-screening-2-djs-with-welcome-glass-of-prosecco-all-ages) Are you dreaming of a singlesland where everyone around you is single, friendly and ready to socialise rendering a world of abundant opportunities? Join us to welcome 2026 altogether in the heart of Soho while partying, and mixing and mingling with people who are in the same phase of life! Everyone at the party will be single so, who knows, you may even find a person to make your heart jump as the new year begins! You never know who you are going meet in this evening and that is the beauty of it! You may find a friend forever, a party buddy, a partner in crime or a partner in life! There is no age range- in a social pool everybody is welcome and you can choose to speak to whoever you fancy. You are very welcome to attend alone or with friends. We will be there making introductions, helping break the ice,, and act as a glue in the group. The program of the night is as follows: 7:30pm-10:00pm Singles Mix and Mingle with background music. Everyone arriving before 9:00pm receives a welcome glass of prosecco (non- alcoholic option available as well) 10pm- 4am The music goes up and it is time for dancing Get ready for an unforgettable soundtrack from **two of** **London’s top DJs**, spinning everything from chart anthems and house classics to party favourites that’ll keep you dancing right through to 2026. Until 11pm we will have exclusive use of a room so we get to know each other in a relaxed friendly environment and then we will mix with other guests of the club to welcome 2026 altogether. We also have access to the karaoke room for those who love to grab the mic and own the stage and as the clock strikes midnight, we will be able to watch the **iconic London Fireworks live on the giant screens**, bringing the city’s magic straight into the heart of Zebrano. Dress code is smart/ elegant- it is New Year's Eve so please glam it up! Zebrano Soho is a vibrant cocktail bar, restaurant, and nightclub in the beating heart of London’s most iconic entertainment district. Zebrano is more than just a venue – it’s a celebration of fun, flavour, and feel-good vibes. It offers amazing cocktails , great cuisine, multiple rooms and an outdoor rooftop terrace At Zebrano, we serve up delicious food, killer cocktails, and the best tunes in town – all in a space designed to make great nights unforgettable. Come for the vibe. Stay for the party. Leave with a story. For security reasons every guest must carry photographic ID with them (Driver’s License, European ID or Passport) independently of the age. Tickets are valid for entry till 11pm How to find us: When you arrive please ask to be directed to Marianna's Events area/ Panagiotis and Yash. Any issue on the night feel free to contact Panagiotis: 07508502863, Yash: 07774905462 or Marianna: 07949526733 For general inquires or difficulties with your ticket booking feel free to e-mail us at benetoupromotions@gmail.com or call Marianna on: 07949526733 How to connect with us: To see all our events please go to: [https://www.fatsoma.com/p/mariannas-events](https://www.fatsoma.com/p/mariannas-events) Like and follow our facebook page: [https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland](https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland) Join our facebook group: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514](https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514) Follow us on twitter:@Mariannasevents

This is the most iconic old school hip-hop NYE celebration in the city 🎇 Get ready to step into a time capsule where the beats were heavier, the lyrics hit harder and the dance-floors stayed packed till the lights came on. We’re taking it back to when hip-hop ruled the streets and shaped the culture, all night long. 🎉 EXPECT👇 ▪️The best DJs spinning 90s and 00s hip-hop classics ▪️Timeless anthems from Tupac, Biggie, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Missy Elliott, Salt-N-Pepa and more ▪️An electric crowd that lives and breathes the culture ▪️Big countdown moments inside one of London’s most iconic venues A night to celebrate the music, the culture and the people that made this era unforgettable 💫 Tickets: £25 Admin fee: £3 More info: https://dice.fm/event/wwl3bx-gin-and-juice-old-school-hip-hop-nye-2025-31st-dec-the-steel-yard-london-tickets

**🥋 Feel Safer, Get Stronger, Train Smarter — in Battersea Park** Join our friendly outdoor Kung Fu sessions in beautiful Battersea Park — build real self-defence skills, fitness, and calm in a relaxed, ego-free environment. No experience needed. Stay for a friendly social afterwards at the Pear Tree Café just a short walk away! \*\*\* **🧠 About the Classes** Whether you're here to improve fitness, learn practical self-defence, or simply try something new, our classes are open to all levels (ages 16+). You’ll learn how to: * Handle punches and attacks effectively * Use footwork and movement to avoid strikes * Improve flexibility, mobility, and balance * Condition your body to absorb impacts safely * Practice breathing and meditation for calm and resilience Our sessions are beginner-friendly, taught at a safe pace, and designed to help you build real martial skill, one step at a time. \*\*\* **📍 When & Where** 🗓 Saturdays 2:30–4:30pm 🗓 Wednesdays 6:30–8:30pm 📌 **Battersea Park**, by the central Bandstand (We train under cover if it rains) \*\*\* **💰 Pricing** **🎟 First class (taster): £15** Try it out before committing — no pressure. **🉐 New joiner offer (after your first class):** * 4-class block: £48 (£12 per class) * 8-class block: £88 (£11 per class) (Use within 2 or 4 months respectively) **📅 Ongoing training (standard pricing after your first block):** * 5-class block: £60 (valid 2 months) * 10-class block: £100 (valid 4 months) Payments are made in advance. Blocks are non-refundable but give you flexibility if you can’t attend every week. **📩 Book your spot:** ✉️ [joe.cheung75@gmail.com](http://joe.cheung75@gmail.com) 📱 WhatsApp/text: 07914 411979 \*\*\* **🎒 What to Bring** * Loose, comfortable clothing. * Water. * Just bring enthusiasm — we’ll handle the rest. \*\*\* **💬 What Students Say** *"* *Joe makes everybody feel welcome, and more importantly, he is a great teacher. Rather than a one size fits all approach, he tailors the class to your strengths and weaknesses and he is extremely patient."* – Natalie, beginner *“A true gem for anyone searching for a holistic system to train strength and awareness.”* – Julius, beginner *“I strongly recommend his services for 16 year olds and over. If you are passionate about martial arts then this class will open your mind to many classical & practical Kung Fu styles.”* – George, White Sash \*\*\* **🔔 Important Info** * Please RSVP or message by **9am on the day** of class so I can plan numbers. * Let me know if you have any injuries or health conditions beforehand. * Classes are non-refundable. Regular training builds muscle memory and confidence over time. \*\*\* **👤 About Me** I’m Joe Cheung, a black sash instructor in Baji Zhandao Kung Fu. My martial arts background includes: * 12+ years Baji Zhandao Kung Fu (2nd Black Sash) * 10+ years Bujinkan Ninjitsu (2nd Dan Black Belt) * 2 years Urban Krav Maga I also offer private one-to-one lessons — just ask for details. \*\*\* **🧭 What Is Baji Zhandao?** Baji Zhandao means *“Battlefield Style”*. It blends six powerful Chinese martial systems into one adaptable method: * Baji Quan * Yang Tai Chi Quan * Pigua Zhang * Tongbei Quan * Bagua Zhang * Xingyi Quan This system was developed by Grandmaster Chen Fu Sheng — a former Chinese Special Forces instructor with 50+ years of real-world martial experience. 🔗 More info: [bajizhandao.co.uk](https://bajizhandao.co.uk) \*\*\* **✅ Ready to Begin?** Whether you want to feel safer, get fitter, or just challenge yourself — you’ll be welcome in the group. Train in the park, build skill for life, and meet great people along the way. **Let’s get started!**

## 🥾 **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

[BOOK HERE](https://www.benita-yoga.com/schedule) A slower paced embodied yoga practice helping you to slow down, take a deeper breath and tune in a little more. You’ll be invited to find your own rhythm of the breath and connect with your inner-self via fluid and mindful movements. Eventually arriving to stillness, letting go of any tension to experience a deep relaxation. The busy thinking mind will slow down, nervous system will calm and your body will relax completely. This class is suitable for beginners. Please bring a mat. ###### Prices: – single class – £12 – 3 classpack – access to any weekly class, 30 days expiry from purchase date – \*£33 – 6 classpack – access to any weekly class, 60 days expiry from purchase date – \*£68 \*special events, like courses, Gong Baths, workshops etc not included Abut the venue: [The Wilds](https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Wilds+at+Barking+Riverside/@51.5253889,0.1243979,15z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x47d8a55bdd4a67bf:0xa9e132218dc5017b!8m2!3d51.5253889!4d0.1243979!16s%2Fg%2F11pxkgqys4?entry=ttu) is the community and ecology centre in Barking Riverside. Well connected with bike paths, public transport, buses or London Overground. Parking is also available.

Hosts: Panagiotis and Yash \*This event is a collaboration with other meetup groups and social networks and it will be well attended \*To attend this event you need to buy a ticket from [https://www.fatsoma.com/e/l02w4ic1/big-new-year-s-eve-singles-party-in-soho-with-karaoke-fireworks-screening-2-djs-with-welcome-glass-of-prosecco-all-ages](https://www.fatsoma.com/e/l02w4ic1/big-new-year-s-eve-singles-party-in-soho-with-karaoke-fireworks-screening-2-djs-with-welcome-glass-of-prosecco-all-ages) Are you dreaming of a singlesland where everyone around you is single, friendly and ready to socialise rendering a world of abundant opportunities? Join us to welcome 2026 altogether in the heart of Soho while partying, and mixing and mingling with people who are in the same phase of life! Everyone at the party will be single so, who knows, you may even find a person to make your heart jump as the new year begins! You never know who you are going meet in this evening and that is the beauty of it! You may find a friend forever, a party buddy, a partner in crime or a partner in life! There is no age range- in a social pool everybody is welcome and you can choose to speak to whoever you fancy. You are very welcome to attend alone or with friends. We will be there making introductions, helping break the ice,, and act as a glue in the group. The program of the night is as follows: 7:30pm-10:00pm Singles Mix and Mingle with background music. Everyone arriving before 9:00pm receives a welcome glass of prosecco (non- alcoholic option available as well) 10pm- 4am The music goes up and it is time for dancing Get ready for an unforgettable soundtrack from **two of** **London’s top DJs**, spinning everything from chart anthems and house classics to party favourites that’ll keep you dancing right through to 2026. Until 11pm we will have exclusive use of a room so we get to know each other in a relaxed friendly environment and then we will mix with other guests of the club to welcome 2026 altogether. We also have access to the karaoke room for those who love to grab the mic and own the stage and as the clock strikes midnight, we will be able to watch the **iconic London Fireworks live on the giant screens**, bringing the city’s magic straight into the heart of Zebrano. Dress code is smart/ elegant- it is New Year's Eve so please glam it up! Zebrano Soho is a vibrant cocktail bar, restaurant, and nightclub in the beating heart of London’s most iconic entertainment district. Zebrano is more than just a venue – it’s a celebration of fun, flavour, and feel-good vibes. It offers amazing cocktails , great cuisine, multiple rooms and an outdoor rooftop terrace At Zebrano, we serve up delicious food, killer cocktails, and the best tunes in town – all in a space designed to make great nights unforgettable. Come for the vibe. Stay for the party. Leave with a story. For security reasons every guest must carry photographic ID with them (Driver’s License, European ID or Passport) independently of the age. Tickets are valid for entry till 11pm How to find us: When you arrive please ask to be directed to Marianna's Events area/ Panagiotis and Yash. Any issue on the night feel free to contact Panagiotis: 07508502863, Yash: 07774905462 or Marianna: 07949526733 For general inquires or difficulties with your ticket booking feel free to e-mail us at benetoupromotions@gmail.com or call Marianna on: 07949526733 How to connect with us: To see all our events please go to: [https://www.fatsoma.com/p/mariannas-events](https://www.fatsoma.com/p/mariannas-events) Like and follow our facebook page: [https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland](https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland) Join our facebook group: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514](https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514) Follow us on twitter:@Mariannasevents

A most delightful and beautiful walk of around 6.5/7 miles following the Regents Canal into Victoria Park and then the Hertford Canal to the various waterways of the Olympic Park in Stratford. The walk will start at 10am. Please bring water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and walking shoes or trainers. The walk shall finish in Stratford by the Olympic Park where there is a myriad of places to have lunch. Meetup fee £5 payable in cash or by bank transfer in advance. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no 07714250849.

We play every Saturday 5pm at Haggerston Park 3G Football Pitch • 1 hour game • Friendly game • 3G, artificial grass surface • Closest station: Hoxton (London Overground) • Book your spot online via Footy Addicts website - www.footyaddicts.com All bookings are managed via Footy Addicts website ONLY! We do not use Meetup any more to manage our attendance list. Please sign up on Footy Addicts and confirm your attendance online!

Electric Nights at Popworld: Dance, Connect, Celebrate!🕺💃 Join us for an unforgettable evening at **Popworld**, located at 17 Watling Street, London, GB EC4M 9BB, just across the incredible Millenium bridge . Get ready to dive into a thrilling club atmosphere with a top-tier **DJ spinning electrifying beats** 🎶 and dazzling **club lights** ✨ that set the perfect mood for a night of fun and connection. **Event Details:** * **Date & Time**: Kick off the night with **free entry** —arrive early to make the most of it! 🕚 * **Entry Instructions**: Mention **ZEN** at the door and bring a valid **ID** 🪪. Show your **RSVP** on the Meetup app to join this event. * **Vibe**: Whether you want to **sit down for cozy chats** 🗣️, **mingle with new faces** 🤝, or **dance the night away** 💃, this night has it all. Expect a lively crowd, including many familiar faces from our recent museum visit, ready to let loose and connect 🎉. With **affordable drinks** 🍹 and the venue open **super late** 🌙, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the energy and make memories. Don’t miss this ultimate nightlife experience—come for the beats, stay for the connections, and leave with stories to tell! Join us on the dancefloor for a night that’ll spark joy and new friendships. 🔥 **RSVP now** and let’s make this a night to remember! ## **Admission Details:** * **Free for the first sign-ups** secure your spot early! **IF YOU CLICKED ATTEND AND ARE ON THE ATTENDEES LIST THEN YOU ARE IN!** * After the free allocation you will have to buy your RSVP through the meetup app. Please show your RSVP on the meetup app to the host on arrival. You are paying for signing up late and having the privilege of joining and mingling with our group and entry to the afterparty. Hosts will be checking RSVPs on the meetup app. \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **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. **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.

Time for us to do another escape room as a group. We will be venturing out to Greenwich for Houdini Escape Rooms (Voted Trip Advisors #1 Escape Room in the World) for Friday Night Escape Rooms for the below: -Escape From Alcatraz -Escape From Titanic Following this we can head to local pub for a debrief #### Escape From Alcatraz FRAMED FOR A CRIME YOU DIDN'T COMMIT, WILL YOU PROVE YOUR INNOCENCE? The year is 1952, you have been convicted of multiple murders that you claim you're innocent of. With only an hour to go before your execution, surely it's too late for your brother to finally prove your innocence and save your life? ​Can you escape your prison cell in the infamous Alcatraz before the guards come to take you to the electric chair? #### Escape From Titanic THE QUEEN OF THE OCEAN IS ABOUT TO EXPERIENCE DISASTER! On April 10th 1912 the largest ship ever build left Southampton on her maiden voyage. She was called the ship of dreams, transporting people to New York in the height of luxury. ​Just 4 days into the journey disaster struck as she collided with an iceberg. On board, as first class passengers, with the impending doom; what would you do to escape the ill-fated ship? **Location** Hodini's Greenwich 161 Greenwich High Road, London. SE10 8JA Please enter via Davy’s wine vaults and make yourself known to the bar staff. One of our Games Masters will be alerted and will come and collect you. Nearest station/DLR - Greenwich **Cost** Cost is £35 to reserve your place and you can pay using paypal below: https://paypal.me/MeetupSaltyYoga or Message me for Bank Transfer If you can let me know which game you would like to play. There are only 6 X spots for Alcatraz and 6 X Spots for Titanic (Note they are at same time so can only do one). 12 spots in total. See the comments below to see availability as more people RSVP. **Schedule** 7:00pm - 7:30pm - Meet at Escape Rooms and get ready 7:30pm - 8:30pm - Escape Rooms 8:30pm + Debrief down local pub \*Note those later than 7:30pm will miss the briefing, if later that 10 mins later may not be able to play the game Any other questions just message me Chris

what ever happened to....GOING UP WEST ! The West End has much less meaning these days, most people just say going into town. To be honest a trip into town does not have the glamour that used to be be conjured up by the thought of a trip Up west. Today we are going to visit some sites and try to re capture the atmosphere of The West End as it was back in the day. These were the days before teenagers emerged and made much of the west end their own with their coffee bars and discotheques. Back in the day the West End meant shopping in the many great department stores, then maybe tea at a Lyons corner house or a visit to the hairdresser. On special nights it meant putting on one's best clothes for a table at a Cabaret club, the occasional treat of a theatre ticket or big screen cinema, or maybe a meal out in a restaurant, all thought of as big nights out. Not like today when wearing a shirt and tie is laughable and scruffiness is quite acceptable. Lets journey back to to those days when the whole world wanted to visit The West End of London The days when one could feel a king or a queen for the day and it was a privilege to be able to go Up West. The cost of this tour is £14 cash on the day Any questions or queries contact Barrie on 07860 911393 or bazaway@aol.com **JOIN OUR 45+ NOT GRUMPY FACEBOOK COMMUNITY** **[https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/](https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/)**

Let's start the year as we mean to go on, with a nice new red that's no walk in the park! A gateway to the South Down National Park. With its hidden gems and quintessentially English scenery, it has a rich tapestry of wildlife, landscapes and tranquillity. Stretching across around 1,600km squared of England, from Winchester in the west to Eastbourne in the east. 🔴 **HIKE:** 📏 24km (15 miles) 🏔️ Elev. Gain: 737m 💓 Av. Pace: 5.2km/h 🚥 [View Walking/Hiking Levels Here](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPRjEOPjW8B/) ✊ *Note: Active Muslims is equally about focusing on the actual activity, in this case, it is a paced walk/hike (and not a stroll), therefore it is advised to approach and attend these events with that mindset, intention and [purpose](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBhPWpdIMKq/?igsh=MWVjdnZrdGZwd3dmYw%3D%3D).* 📍 **Waterloo: Opposite Platform 3** 🔄 Start/End: **Petersfield Station** **/** [Waterloo Station] ⌚Meet from 8:08am, the train departs at **8:30am** *[arrives 9:34am at* Petersfield *\| Return train estimate: 16:24\]* 🎟️ Train Tickets: You are welcome to purchase your own ticket. **It is best to purchase with a Network Rail Card or group discount.** *Purchasing on the day is recommended.* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🎟️ **If you would like me to help purchase your group ticket** (3+ must travel together). **On the condition you aim to arrive before the platform is announced.** 💳 [**PayPal Here (£25.75)**](https://paypal.me/mubasher001/25.75) Confirm via below once you've made the payment with your **Meetup Name:** 📱 [My WhatsApp](https://wa.me/+447799438148). ⌛Deadline: Wednesday: 9:01pm *ℹ️ I cannot issue refunds once I've purchased your ticket.* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🚻 Waterloo / Onboard train / Petersfield / possible at cafe 🧎 Prayer: If you are praying, please have/keep wudu (make it within other breaks) and be prepared to join at short notice. 🎒 What to bring: appropriate clothing/boots, water bottle [1.5/2L], packed lunch & snacks to keep you going! 👕 Advisable to have layers. 🥾 Hiking boots recommended. 🧦 Hiking socks/double socks advised (reduces chance of blisters) 🔦 Headlight (winter hikes) 🗂️ "No shows" / late removers for previous events may be moved to the waitlist to prioritise reliable attendees / new joiners - ***when there is a waiting list, priority is given by attendance records / new joiners.*** 📊 [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)] ⛑️ *Disclaimer: You are solely responsible for your own safety on these events and have the fitness level required for it. That you do not require special attention, medication or additional care. You are also responsible for your belonging at all times.* 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims/)** *(Follow for latest events updates)* 🚦 **[Walk/Hike Levels:](https://www.instagram.com/share/reel/BB1WYW-S3R)** 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

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.