Bird Watching

Picture - Public domain Meet by Edith Cavell memorial statue on St Martin's Place, close to the church of St Martin in the Fields @ 11-11.10 - closest stations Charing X and Leicester Sq. Fee £15 **Pay on the day and RSVP me please by email - on this page - or text** So many paintings so little time! But we'll do our best and i'll be covering periods from the Renaissance to the Impressionists and a host of amazing ones in between. There are some wonderful art galleries in London but to me this is and has always been at the top of the list. This will be a great way to discover a bit more about some of the greatest artists and what made them tick. Host Blue Badge guide Laurence 07889 298573

Get ready to bring your sketchbook and art supplies for a chilled café sketching session! No matter your skill level lets grab a coffee and unleash our creativity into our sketchbooks. There's no formal guidance, you'll be free to get on with your own drawings/personal art projects while being able to connect with other local artists. You're welcome to join in on the group conversations or quietly get on with your art studies whatever your preference. A few basic drawing supplies (pencils, colouring pencils, erasers etc) will be provided but please bring your own sketchbook / tablet / paper / something to draw on! Hope to see you there (Also please feel free to join even if RSVPs are full!)

It’s been a while since we all got together, let’s enjoy some vines in the sunshine, unwind and cheers to the weekend 🥂!

I haven't been out dancing late in a while, and since tickets for the Shacklewell's all-Aussie club night on May 1 are now past the £11 mark, I thought this, on the same night, would be the best option. I've actually wanted to try out Weird Disco for ages now. The music is a mix of genuine disco, weird guitar stuff, other decent 70s tunes and newer dancey stuff. Plus, Paper Dress Vintage is a fun venue. You might want to dress up thematically, but as this is the start of the May bank holiday but either way, why not make the most of it? There are a limited number of free tickets and they're available [here](https://dice.fm/partner/tickets/event/xedv23-weird-disco-club-night-1st-may-paper-dress-vintage-london-tickets?dice_id=8946500&dice_channel=web&dice_tags=organic&dice_campaign=Paper+Dress+Vintage&dice_feature=mio_marketing&_branch_match_id=1571962547196567213&utm_source=web&utm_campaign=Paper+Dress+Vintage&utm_medium=mio_marketing&_branch_referrer=H4sIAAAAAAAAA8soKSkottLXz8nMy9ZLyUxO1UvL1Q9PMbU0TDI1MzQ0MLOvK0pNSy0qysxLj08qyi8vTi2ydcsEiuVXAADPlSU5PAAAAA%3D%3D). We can grab a drink round the corner at half ten and maybe head in afterwards.

Walk length 5miles/8km approx. Linear. A short evening stroll from Baker Street to King's Cross via Regent's Park and the Regent's Canal. We can go for drinks at the end at a very classy pub The Barrel Vault St Pancras station. There is the opportunity to go to the Star of Kings pub close for Open Karaoke. FREE WALK TONIGHT.. Meeting and Transport Meet outside the entrance to Baker Street underground from 6.15pm to start at 6.30pm. Walking Safety: Walking is a great way to keep fit and generally very safe; however it does contain an element of risk. Before going on any of these walks you need to be reasonably fit and be prepared to be responsible for your own safety. You must wear appropriate clothing such as proper walking shoes, warm and wet weather clothing and carry sufficient food and water. Please see our Terms and Conditions (http://www.meetup.com/London-Explorers/pages/Terms_and_Conditions/) COULD EVERYONE PLEASE AVOID COMMENTS BELOW THAT ARE NOT SPECIFIC TO THE EVENT AS THIS GENERATES SPAM, JUST CHANGE YOUR RSVP IF YOU CAN'T GO. YOU CAN MESSAGE ME. MANY THANKS.

Discover tango in a truly magical setting at St Matthew’s Church. An open-level class where music, movement and connection meet. No partner needed — just curiosity and a desire to dance. Come explore tango beyond steps, in a warm, welcoming space where the embrace leads the way.

**Celebrate National Walking Month the NikOut Way!** Epic hikes, soulful views, and a brilliant group of like-minded people. This four-day escape is all about moving through wild landscapes, sharing good food, and switching off from everyday noise. We’ll be based in Ambleside, right on the shores of Windermere, with classic Lake District routes by day and relaxed evenings by the lake. *This is a physically challenging weekend. Previous hill-walking experience and a good level of fitness are required to take part.* **Register your interest now — spaces are limited as this will be a small-group experience.** **The Plan** **Day 1 - Arrival & Welcome (Friday)** * Arrive in Ambleside * Check-in from 3:00 pm * Welcome dinner (optional) at the hostel’s lakeside restaurant **Day 2 - Helvellyn via Striding Edge (Saturday)** Helvellyn is synonymous not just with Patterdale and Glenridding, but with the Lake District and fell walking as a whole. This is a big, exciting mountain range that draws walkers from across the UK to its vast summit and iconic ridgelines. We’ll take on the classic route, traversing the famous Striding Edge — a thrilling knife-edge arête that offers an unforgettable sense of exposure and achievement. Helvellyn is one of the Lake District’s “big three” mountains and a firm favourite that people return to year after year. This is a challenging and rewarding mountain day, with incredible views and a true sense of adventure. **Difficulty:** Challenging **Experience required:** Good level of fitness and confidence on mountain terrain **Day 3 - Fairfield Horseshoe Challenge (Sunday)** A classic Lakeland route that draws in "Summit Baggers" who are physically fit and enjoy a challenge. The overall distance is 11 miles, and the walk is expected to take 7 hours at a steady pace. **Day 4 – Lakeside Stroll & Farewell (Monday)** * Gentle morning walk along Windermere * Coffee/breakfast stop and final views Where We’ll Stay **YHA Ambleside Hostel** * Prime lakeside location on Windermere * Café, restaurant & licensed bar on site * Social & friendly **Room options:** * £55 per person – hostel accomodation or similar **Cost:** Organising & guiding fee: £75 per person **Not included:** * Transport * Food & drinks * Towel hire * Accommodation * Insurance **Transport:** * Train from London Euston to the Lake District * Approx. 2 hours 40 minutes, plus a short bus journey * Return tickets: around £128.00 as of January OR car share. *Everyone is responsible for getting to the Lake District, but we will have a tracker list to coordinate group travel.

**Hello and welcome! 🙂** Join us for a relaxed, social walk through **RSPB Rainham Marshes**, one of London’s most impressive nature reserves. With wide open landscapes, big skies, and a rich mix of wildlife, it’s the perfect place to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with others at an easy, unhurried pace. 🌟 **What to Expect** * A gentle group walk through open marshland and nature trails * An easy way to meet new people with friendly, low-pressure conversation * Learn to spot birds, landscapes, 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** outside the main entrance to RSPB Rainham Marshes (next to the little bridge, near the visitor centre). About a 10 minute walk from **Purfleet train station.** * **Begin walk at 11:10am** * **Walk will end around 13:00pm**, finishing back at the entrance To help encourage people to sign up early there are usually some free spaces. After that the usual price will apply. The charge helps cover the cost of the Meetup group subscription. 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 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 the London Sketching Meetup Group for purposeful sketching of objects that intrigue you and convert into a unique composition. Location: V&A Museum, Cromwell Road, London Time: 10AM - 12 Noon Items to bring : Sketchbook, Pencil (Graphite/Colorpencils/Sticks/Pastels) Fee : 6 GBP Whether you're a beginner or experienced artist, this workshop is perfect for anyone looking to hone their skills and unleash their creativity.

**DESCRIPTION** 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) We begin in charming Bosham Bay before taking a scenic boat ride across Chichester Harbour, arriving at the stunning white sands of West Wittering. Expect coastal views, sea air, open skies and time to relax, swim or explore the shoreline. A refreshing mix of harbour charm and beach bliss. **WHAT TO EXPECT - HIKING INFO** Distance: **21km** Ascent: c.**mainly flat** Estimated Duration (approx): **5-6 hours walking** Difficulty: **[Moderate](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/hike-grade)** **PROGRAMME** Meeting Point: Meeting Point: **[London Victoria Station](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/meeting-places/)** (see pic in link) in front of the ticket machines where the Benches are. Assembly time: 08:00 Move to train: 08:15 Train leaves: 08:32 Arrive at Bosham station: 10:36 Leave Beach 16:00ish Departure from West Wittering bus station on bus 16:25ish Departure Train: 16:54 from Chichester station, arrive back at Victoria 18:50 Exact timings to work out on the day and be prepared to be later back to Victoria than planned. **Pricing Info:** * £38 per person – includes hike + train, boat and bus travel. Book by 11:59 PM on Tuesday before the event to guarantee your spot at this discounted price - after this time there might or might not be limited discounted tickets left upon checking event. * Want to join for the hike, bus and boat only? Message me privately on Meetup to pay £18, then you'll need to get your own train tickets. **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** * 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

Meet fellow early birds. Get a big dose of nature: wild sky, abundant green space, and occasional wildlife. And then warm up in a nearby cafe. Conversations fuelled by early morning light and coffee tend to be good ones. **The plan:** * meet at 7AM at the top of **PRIMROSE HILL** * take in the view for a little while (depending on how cold it is) * walk to ROOTS, a friendly café on Regents Park Road * warm up with coffee (10% off) Become part of our community of regulars, or just drop by for a one off experience. We meet frequently - sometimes weekly, sometimes fortnightly - to create and sustain community. New people are always welcome :-) **[WHATSAPP GROUP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DPkYXvrP6IhFrSRDiQACLC)** to keep up to date **[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/thesunriseclubetc)** to see what these meetups look like **[SUBSTACK](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/)** for the newsletter and occasional extras **[WEBSITE](http://www.alltogether.one/)** for all other groups We will be easy to find because we will be at the top of the hill with a big red flag that says 'THE SUNRISE CLUB' and a sign that says 7AM SUMMIT These are free meetups, but if you’d like to support, please donate here: '[buy me a coffee](https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bonnyastor)' ❤️

PUT AN END TO AUTO! Would you like to learn to use your camera properly and get the shots you want by choice and not by accident? Attending this small group workshop will give you a strong understanding of the essentials needed to get the results you're looking for. This session will include theory and practical exercises to apply what you have learned. By the end of this session you forget about only getting great results by accident, and feel confident that you understand how to get your camera to do what you want! This is the end of Auto! WHAT YOU WILL LEARN: * The important dials and buttons on your camera * Exposure triangle: Aperture, Shutter Speed and ISO * Focusing * Histogram * White Balance * Depth of Field * Metering * And much more... **PAYMENT OPTIONS** * **PayPal via RSVP** * The Meetup transaction fee will be added. and you'll automatically be added to attend * **Send £30 via PayPal** to \*\*[creativebeansproductions@gmail.com**](http://creativebeansproductions@gmail.com%2A%2A/) with no extra fee. * Send us a text or comment below and we will add you to the event attendee list. EXPERIENCE Beginners / Refreshers EQUIPMENT * Any camera * Any lens 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 **A WEEKEND IN VENICE – Oct 2026** [https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095/](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095/) **MONTHLY EVENTS** [https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa)

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 14 miles (22km) • Grading: [Intermediate/Challenging](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 580m • Hiking time: 5.5 to 6.5 hours • Cost: £34 (includes guided hike + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, at the mid-afternoon stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: IMPORTANT - London Bridge station has several levels, please check the map below before you leave home and also arrive at least 10 minutes early to get to the meeting point. London Bridge station. Meet upstairs (top floor - so go up the escalators) between WHSmith (no 15) and M&S (no 16) - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LondonBridge.jpg) & [PHOTO1](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LondonBridgePhoto1.jpg), [PHOTO2](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LondonBridgePhoto2.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:20am, leave 8:40am for the 8:55am train • Return: 7:39pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Hike the **most spectacular coastal trail in Southern England** — the famous Seven Sisters • A great physical challenge with options to self shorten if needed • Enjoy **breathtaking cliff-top views** for much of the hike • Pass **Birling Gap** and the iconic **Belle Tout Lighthouse** • Finish in **Eastbourne — England’s sunniest town** • Explore the **South Downs National Park** — the newest in the UK 🥾 **Hike Description** This is Outdooraholics’ most popular hike, a dramatic and exhilarating journey across the chalk cliffs of Sussex that we have been leading for over 12 years. The **Seven Sisters** are a spectacular series of gleaming white chalk cliffs formed at the end of the last Ice Age by glacial meltwater. Erosion has since created an “eighth sister,” and today the cliffs stand as one of England’s most iconic landscapes. We begin in the coastal town of **Seaford**, home to a Napoleonic-era **Martello Tower** built in 1810 as part of a chain of 103 coastal defences against French invasion. From here, the trail climbs onto the cliff tops, where for much of the day we walk high above the sea, treated to endless coastal views and fresh sea air. Our route follows the **South Downs Way**, passing through **Birling Gap** and past the striking **Belle Tout Lighthouse**, famously moved 17 metres inland in 1999 to save it from falling into the sea. The final highlight is **Beachy Head**, a dramatic beauty spot with sheer chalk cliffs dropping into the sea below. We finish in **Eastbourne**, statistically England’s sunniest town, where we celebrate our coastal adventure with refreshments in a local pub. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [LYUBAVA](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07883 405294 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) **Cliffs – danger** There are sheer drops off the cliffs and some of these soft chalk cliffs are crumbling at the edges with chunks regularly falling and no fencing in place. Please keep at least 3 metres away from the edges. If you fall, or the ground at the edge of the cliff collapses it will almost certainly be fatal. © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

**Relaxed woodland loop** through **Petts Wood & Hawkwood** at peak **bluebell** time. Easy navigation on firm forest paths, plenty of photo stops, and café options near the village. ### What to See * Bluebells and spring woodland (oaks, hornbeam) * Petts Wood & Hawkwood nature reserve * Green lanes and quiet commons ### Event Details * **Meeting Time: 10:30** at **[Petts Wood Station](https://maps.app.goo.gl/J5ZrXVBmbMSi4n4dA "Petts Wood Station")** (ticket hall) * Start & Finish: Petts Wood (Zone 5) * **Distance: 12–14 km** (loop) * Pace: social, with photo stops * Bring: boots/trainers with grip, light waterproof, water, snack ###

Who’s up for a fun night out? Get your boots on, grab your cowboy hat, and let’s have some fun! Thinking about checking out PBR Cowboy Bar & Smokehouse for a lively evening to unwind, connect, and enjoy the night together. • Lively atmosphere with country vibes • Delicious food + drinks • Music, dancing, and lots of laughs • Great conversation and new connections

Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “create a better world” by helping serve those in need. Here are complete details and our plan for this event: FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. For this event, our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces. PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for BRUNCH from 10:30am to 12:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 10:20am and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1 (in the back of the building), indicated in the attached map. On-site parking in the adjacent lot and street parking is available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please try to update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. Our Partner Agency for this event is Lutheran Social Services! A huge THANK YOU to all of YOU for volunteering at this (and any of our previous) CMG Gives Back events! Should be another good/fun/meaningful time together, Dan

Let’s meet Sunday morning for coffee/tea at La Chatelaine in Worthington, OH at 9am. 7 La Chatelaine French Bakery & Bistro in Worthington, OH, located at 627 High St, is a charming, locally owned eatery offering authentic French cuisine, pastries, and bread in a rustic,, cozy atmosphere. Open daily, it is popular for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch, featuring a popular patio, counter service, and a frequently lauded bakery section

I'm not sure how much space is here for seating, but it looks like an interesting place. Here's a link to see their menu: https://www.thirdwaycoffee.com/s/splash They've got chai and matcha lattes, hot or iced, and regular tea. They also have pastries. Here's their Instagram: https://www.thirdwaycoffee.com/s/instagram

This year's Eurovision Song Contest is being held in Vienna, Austria, and the finals are scheduled for 16 May 2026. The [Scandinavian Club of Columbus](https://www.scandiclub.com/) will be co-hosting a viewing party for the final event in conjunction with Germania and the [Columbus Maennerchor](https://www.maennerchor.com/). The delayed televised viewing will take place at the Germania. The program will start around 2:00 p.m. and the singing will **start around 3:00 p.m**. There will be a **cash bar**, and those in attendance can **bring food or snacks** for themselves and or to share with the groups. **Suggested donation: $10/person** to help cover the cost of the venue.