Bird Watching

"The radical otherness of birds is integral to their beauty and their value. They are always among us but never of us. Their indifference to us ought to serve as a chastening reminder that we’re not the measure of all things.” Jonathan Franzen The dawn chorus is like a never-ending wave of thanksgiving and joy that goes round the earth 24 hours a day, seven days a week and fifty-two weeks of the year. Science tells us there are three reasons why birds sing: to advertise their strengths, to attract a mate and to defend territory. How reductionist. That's only half the story! Birds sing because they can. It's their gift, their song of thanks and joy. Thanks that they have survived the night, the cold, the predators. This vigil is an opportunity to experience the beauty and mystery of dawn chorus birdsong in spring as it first emerges and then climbs to a joyous crescendo. The vigil is followed by a talk and discussion about birdsong, the spirituality and folklore of birds and their place in creation. Wrap up warm bring a blanket and a sit mat to ensure you're warm and comfortable. we'll meet at the entrance to the Tooting Common Athletics track at 5am

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/C2KwIp79riz1A71dNF6pgF)** 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)' ❤️

Let's sketch around Kensington Palace in Hyde Park! Meet at the Statue of Queen Victoria in Hyde Park for wonderful views of Kensington Palace, another drain on the taxpayer's wallet where the Royals probably spend no time whatsoever. It's pretty though. Nearest Stations: Queensway/Notting Hill Gate/South Kensington Completely free of charge, no need to sign up, bring a friend! Feel free to drop in for the whole two hours or just short while if you'd prefer. Look for the tall ginger fella sketching away as the central meetup spot, but feel free to roam as far and wide as you like and sketch anything you damn well please! Please bring your own sketchbooks and pens/pencils. The plan will be to meet at 1pm, sketch for a couple of hours and meet back and chat at 3pm. There are plenty of places around to grab coffee or a bite to eat, hopefully the weather is good so we'll be able to sit outside but if not we could consider ducking into a cafe. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- About Sketchbook London Every week we will choose a location around the magnificent city of London and draw people, buildings, pigeons, bins, anything you want.... No payment, no pressure, no need to sign up, just show up and draw for a couple of hours. All levels, abilities and professions welcome, bring a friend! Zero pressure to interact, network, impress in any way, this is just a way to get out and about and appreciate the joy of urban sketching and all the weird and wonderful creatures that inhabit this thriving metropolis. I am a storyboard artist working in animation and I am happy to discuss sketching techniques or give feedback on any work but this is by no means an exclusive event for artists, all are welcome :)

**SUMMARY (all info is approximate!)** **Distance**: 21km (13 miles) **Duration**: 6-7 hours walking **Grade**: Moderate **HIGHLIGHTS** * great views from Shoulder of Mutton Hill * forests coming into bloom * bluebells, spring flowers * forlorn paths * weird and wonderful moreland on Longmore Common * Sussex Border Path & budding rhododendrons, * country pubs for refreshments. We'll start our walk in Petersfield and head north to follow part of the 34 km (21 mile) Hangers Way - a long distance path less travelled within an area of outstanding natural beauty. The countryside around here is unspoilt and forlorn, and we'll meet only a few locals out for a walk with their dogs. In our first hour, we will be rewarded with fantastic views from Shoulder of Mutton Hill as we continue through forested slopes and over open fields towards Liss and then onto Liphook via a nice lunchtime pub stop (for drinks only). After Liss, we will walk down Shipwrights Way to Longmore and Weavers Down, an army managed access land which is eerily remote and wild with a range of different flora, shrubs and trees. We will then walk on the Sussex Border Path and continue to Liphook, where we will reward ourselves with a pub stop. This will be English countryside in its quintessential beauty and at its best – with budding wild flowers and maybe some wild rhododendrons - as well experiencing Longmore Common which feels like walking over Scottish moreland. **COST AND LOGISTICS** **Cost**: £10 **Start**: 8.35 Meet for a group save ticket **Meet:** 8:45 for those who buy their own tickets & walk to train **Finish:** 5.30/6pm for an optional pub visit. **Recommended morning train from London** **Dep**: 09:00 London Waterloo **Arr:** 10.05 Petersfield **Return** **trains:** 18.20, 19.20 **Recommended train ticket** Off-Peak Day Return to Petersfield · **£25.75 group save/ network rail price** Recommended: Buy a yearly Network Railcard for reduced train prices www.network-railcard.co.uk **Meeting Point:** Waterloo Station - In front of Information Desk by the big Pret **REVIEWS** [Trip Advisor](https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186338-d19994843-Reviews-AAA_Hiking_Outdoor_Group-London_England.html) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews) \| [MeetUp](https://www.meetup.com/aaa-outdoor-hiking-adventure-travel/feedback-overview/) **PRICE INCLUDES** · Guided hike planned and led by an experienced AAA leader, trained in Outdoor First Aid. **PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** · Travel costs · Lunch, drinks or any refreshments · PayPal fees **RECOMMENDED KIT LIST** [(](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)complete list[)](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist) · Suitable hiking shoes or boots · Packed lunch and snacks · Water - 2 litres recommended · Waterproof jacket and trousers (Please no jeans!) · Warm windproof layer e.g. Down/Primaloft/Fleece · Wicking base layer e.g. Polyester/Tencel/Merino **CANCELLING/REFUNDS** If you can no longer join the hike, please message the Host listed on here, and update your RSVP status to 'Not going', to allow others to take your place. If the hike is full, and you have messaged us and have changed your RSVP to 'Not going', we will refund you, less than the PayPal/Meetup fees. To obtain this, please email info@aaalondongroup.com **after the event**, with the email address you use on your PayPal account and transaction reference. If the hike is not full, unfortunately we will not be able to provide any refund. **QUESTIONS** If you have any other questions, please check visit our [FAQ page](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/frequently-asked-questions). 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 London Group Terms and Conditions. © AAA London Group Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted

I was planning to do this on 18th April, but our favourite (and only) pub with the yummy £9.99 pizzas is fully booked that day. So I have moved it to the 25th, when the bluebells will hopefully still be there, in addition to the other attractions in this lovely wood. For those of you who perceive Abbey Wood as being a long way away, its only in zone 4, its 15 minutes & 4 stations from Whitechapel on the Elizabeth Line, covered on all free passes, and around two quid if you are a paying passenger. Situated in South East London, Lesnes Abbey Wood offers 88 hectares of ancient woodland, a park and a ruined abbey (grade two listed). There is also the Arboretum, where we can take a walk through a collection of trees from around the world, plus other attractions too. https://www.lesnesabbeywoods.org/explore/park-gardens/ I am putting this event up nice and early because I have to book tables at The Abbey Arms. So put your name down if you are definitely coming, but please do message me should you not be eating. I will be giving the pub numbers next Wednesday (15th April). So if you are one of the several who don't make up their mind until the eleventh hour, I may be able to get you in on the day but no guarantees. We're meeting at the front of Abbey Wood station, slightly later than usual at 11.15am. I expect to be at the pub between 3.30 and 4pm. If you haven't already paid for April, I ask for a nominal contribution of £2 to help cover Meetup organiser fees. No shrapnel please. RISK WARNING/DISCLAIMER: Please remember that as with any physical activity, there can be dangers associated with hiking/walking, especially around waterways, forests, farms and countryside. Your decision to voluntarily participate in this activity is an informed decision. and by attending this event you agree and accept to take sole responsibility for your own actions, your own safety, and your own belongings. Please dress appropriately, including sturdy shoes. Please bring any necessary medication with you. You will need to be sufficiently fit to walk several miles at a moderate pace. We may occasionally cross or walk short distances on roads; country and woodland tracks can be muddy or slippery; animals may be encountered on occasion. INSURANCE: If either yourself or any guests you bring along require insurance for this walk, then you must arrange this yourselves. GUESTS: If you are bringing any guests along, there is no facility on the Meetup site to record their details. Please ensure that you make them fully aware of the Risk Warning/Disclaimer and Insurance statements.

It's time to get out in nature and enjoy the beauty of the bluebell woods. It's been a long winter so lets embrace spring and capture these gorgeous flowers. We’ll look at camera settings to use to ensure you get the best photos of bluebells. We'll give you loads of tips to help you capture classic and creative bluebell shots. We'll have some optional exercises to help you get the best of your morning shooting bluebells. EQUIPMENT * Any camera including smartphones * Kit lens such as 18-55, 24-70mm lens * 50mm or macro lens (if you have one) OTHER ESSENTIALS * Check the weather and wear appropriate clothes and shoes TRAVEL * As usual check the TFL website for any disruptions that might delay your journey * We'll have a 1 km gentle walk to the bluebell woods. If you drive we will meet you by the park. IMPORTANT INFO * Bluebells are protected under UK law so it is advisable to stay on the footpaths provided. CONTACT * Alex 07956 264049 VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND - Oct 2026 [https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095) UPCOMING EVENTS [www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events](http://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events)

Long exposure photography is a genre in photography that is associated with fine art photography due to the surreal and other worldly effects long exposure photography can bring. Filters give you the ability to smooth water, blur clouds and make moving objects turn ghost-like or disappear. **WHAT YOU WILL LEARN** * Master visual effects using ND filters * Camera settings * How to expose, focus and compose your image * Filter types - what they do - how and when to use them **Kase Filters** Today we'll be providing the amazingly quick and compact Kase Magnetic filters. If you are interested in buying and would like a 10% discount: Website: [www.kasefilters.com](http://www.kasefilters.com/) Discount code: **10kaalex** **REQUIRED EQUIPMENT** * A tripod * Shutter release * Lens: 18-55mm, 24-70mm or similar * A wide lens if you have one **EXPERIENCE** Beginners and refreshers basic knowledge of their camera * Help will be provided where needed **OTHER ESSENTIALS** * Check the weather and wear appropriate outerwear * A fun and experimental attitude! **PAYMENT OPTIONS** * PayPal via RSVP - Meetup transaction fee will be added. and you'll automatically be added to attend * Send £40 via PayPal to \*\*[creativebeansproductions@gmail.com**](http://creativebeansproductions@gmail.com%2A%2A/) with no extra fee. * Text Alex on 07956264049 and we will add you to the event attendee list. **TRAVEL** * Check the TFL website for interruptions that might delay your journey **CONTACT** * Alex 07956 264049 VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND - Oct 2026 [https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095) UPCOMING EVENTS [www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events](http://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events)

The famous Seven Sisters ! 13 miles long with at least 7 major hills and one of the best coastal walks in southern England with fabulous views ! Only attempt this walk if you are fine with dealing with so many difficult hills taking into account also the length of the walk ! Let's go with the flow ! Group return train tickets shall be purchased as from 8.50am for the train at 9.24am that arrives at Seaford at 10.48am after changing trains at Lewes. Train ticket : Seaford return Or you may decide to drive. At Seaford we shall go to the public toilets a few minutes away from the train station. Please bring packed lunch, water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and wear boots, walking shoes or trainers. MEETUP FEE SPECIAL OFFER £5 ! Meetup fee : normally £8 payable in cash or £6 by Friday in advance by bank transfer, details supplied by private message. The walk shall commence by 11.10am after we stop off for public toilets NEAR Seaford train station. We shall have a drink at the end of the walk in Eastbourne and perhaps fish and chips too. At Eastbourne train station a small supplementary fare shall need be purchased in respect of the first part of the return journey to Lewes which was not covered by the return train ticket purchased in the morning. You should be able to walk 2.5 miles per hour and have adequate and appropriate insurance for this type of activity. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no 07714250849.

We are taking on 18 miles along one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the UK. Think sea air, big open views, quiet chats as we walk, and that steady rhythm you only get on a long hike. It is not just about the distance - it is about the experience. The moments where the group spreads out, then comes back together. The snack breaks that somehow taste better by the sea. That feeling when your legs are tired, but your head feels clear. **The plan:** Distance: 18.5 miles Difficulty: Hard Time: 8–9 hrs Train tickets: purchase off-peak return to Eastbourne with national rail card. OR wecq get a group ticketket on a day. Sea views + cliffs + iconic Kent coastline We will start in Deal and follow the coast towards the cliffs, moving at a steady, social pace. There will be time to pause, take it in, and enjoy it — no rush, no pressure, just a shared challenge. By the end, you’ll have walked 18 miles, met some great people, and probably feel a little different than when you started (in a good way). **Bring:** * Comfortable walking shoes / boots * Water and snacks * Weather-appropriate clothing **⚠️ Important: Refund Policy & Weather Notice** This hike runs rain or shine. No refunds are available, but spots can be transferred with 48 hours’ notice. Are you in? Spaces are limited - RSVP now!

## **Hike Details** **• Distance:** 22 km **• Hiking Time:** Approx. 6–6.5 hours **• Grade:** Hard (good fitness required) **• Ascent:** 340 m **• Pace:** Steady with breaks for lunch and photos **• Cost:** £33 per person (includes guided Hike & return train tickets) ## **Meeting Point & Time** **Location:** London Victoria Rail Station at 08:20 am near ticket office **Depart:** Meet us 08:20 am, we leave 08:40 am for 08:54 am train **Return:** 8:10 pm Back in London Victoria (commitment required until then). ## Details This iconic cliff-top hike—widely regarded as one of England’s most spectacular coastal walks—offers breath taking and widely celebrated views of the Seven Sisters' white cliffs, offering breath-taking views of the English Channel, and the famous Beachy Head, culminating in the graceful seafront town of Eastbourne. The walk involves a fair amount of ascent and descent—aside from the relatively level stretches near Cuckmere Haven and the final approach along Eastbourne’s promenade, the path is rarely flat. Yet, the majestic scenery makes the effort feel almost effortless. **Highlights: Iconic Landmarks** * **Martello Tower (Seaford**) - The westernmost of 103 Napoleonic-era coastal fortresses. * **Seven Sisters Cliffs** \- An undulating chalk cliffs formed by Ice Age glacier meltwater and sea erosion * **Birling Gap** \- National Trust site with dramatic cliff erosion \(up to 1 meter per year\)\. * **Beachy Head** \- The highest chalk sea cliff in England at 162 meters\, with its current lighthouse built in 1902 to replace Belle Tout * **Cuckmere Haven** \- A serene river valley where the Cuckmere River meets the English Channel * **Eastbourne Seafront** \- Victorian elegance with the famous pier and beautiful promenade **\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*** **"For your safety, please be cautious near the cliff edges on this walk, as the terrain is unstable and may collapse. It’s recommended to stay at least 5 metres away from any cliff edges."** **\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*** ## **What to Bring** **-** Sturdy hiking boots \- Water & packed lunch/snacks \- Weather\-appropriate clothing \(layers\, windbreaker\) \- Sun protection \(hat\, sunscreen\) \- Optional: camera\, walking poles ## **Additional Info** **• Hike Leader: Raj 07788839784** • Some steep ascents and descents • No toilets along the cliff section – plan accordingly \*\*This event is posted in multiple platforms [Terms and Conditions](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ATwisQ4GPE0KszBmFVy8wK4thfCKKlGF/view?usp=sharing)

Join us for a rewarding 16-mile circular walk starting from the charming village of Balcombe, taking in some of the most scenic and iconic landscapes in the area. This route is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of a challenge, with plenty of hills to keep things interesting and elevate the views. We’ll begin by heading towards the impressive Balcombe Viaduct, an architectural highlight that stretches gracefully across the valley—an ideal early photo stop. From there, the route winds through rolling countryside, quiet woodland paths, and open fields as we make our way toward Ardingly Reservoir. Here, we’ll take time to enjoy the peaceful waterside setting, with plenty of opportunities to pause, refuel, and take in the views. Continuing on, we’ll pass sections of the historic Bluebell Railway, where, if we’re lucky, we may catch a glimpse of a vintage steam train in action—a real treat that adds a touch of nostalgia to the day. Expect a mix of terrain including woodland trails, country lanes, and uneven paths, with several steady climbs throughout. A good level of fitness is recommended, as the distance and hills make this a moderately challenging walk. Bring plenty of water, snacks or a packed lunch, and sturdy footwear. In spring, parts of the route may be lined with bluebells, adding even more charm to an already beautiful walk. A fantastic day out for keen walkers looking to explore the Sussex countryside, enjoy great ompany, and take in some memorable sights along the way. This is a hilly walk and so is not suitable for beginner hikers. Outward Travel: Take the train departing 09.08 AM from London Bridge to Balcombe arr 10:02 Buy a day return ticket to Balcombe. The cost is £10.05 with a groupsave or network rail card. Walk start: 10:02 from Balcombe station. Walk end approx 17:45 at Balcombe station. Pub stop for lunch, bring a packed lunch as there might not be time to order food *How to join?* *The walk is entirely free of charge; - You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses; *Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part); - Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself. See our quick safety tips: [http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/](http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/) *Please answer the RSVP question; Guests with missing or incorrect answers will be removed from the list! *What to bring* - Plenty of water, 1-2 litres recommended *Enough snacks and packed lunch to keep you energized along the walk - Extra snacks and an extra packed lunch just in case *Rainproof (ideally waterproof) clothing, sturdy shoes/boots you don't mind getting muddy - Spare socks *Walking poles and/or an umbrella :-) - Yourself... *...and your camera! - Cash for train ticket *Cash for pub at the end of the walk? Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section! IMPORTANT Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organized by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes. Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is no business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader". Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen. Despite this, we take extreme precautions and all trips we plan are very safe, fun, highly educational and popular. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone :-) By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer. Here are our tips on staying safe during outdoor trips: [http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/](http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/) TRAVEL, ACCOMMODATION, INSURANCE Although we provide detailed suggestions, each participant is expected to arrange their own travel - this gives everyone the freedom and choice. Anyone interested in travel or outdoor insurance should also arrange this on their own. As mentioned above we always take extreme precautions, but some people may still feel safer if covered. As most of our trips are confirmed or postponed very close to the event date - heavily depending on the weather forecasts - we advise not to buy this until the last minute. People getting tickets from the same station are encouraged to meet early on the day to benefit from discounts such as GroupSave. Any questions, feel free to ask below or send a private message!

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Grandview Grind](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063534163841)!

**Columbus, this is your HOME AWAY FROM HOME** Get game day ready with the ultimate **Aviators fan experience** at **DraftKings Sports & Social**. We’re talking watch parties that feel like you’re in the stadium, exclusive giveaways, special guest appearances, and nonstop energy from kickoff to final whistle. PLUS win tickets to the next home game, happening May 1! Pull up, rep your squad, and make this your go-to spot all season long. **Where:** 840 N High St **When:** Sunday\, April 26 \| 12 PM **Check-in:** at the host stand and say "Columbus Meetup" to get a wristband for exclusive drink specials from 12pm-3pm!

Join WQC on April 25th from 11am-1pm at Inniswood Metro Park for a Nature Photo Walk. All types of cameras welcome! Let's enjoy spring to the fullest... 🌻🌼🌷🐤

**We'll hike 3.4 miles on the Killdeer and Yellowlegs Trails - both out and back gravel trails. If we want more mileage we can repeat an out and back. Pace of around 3.5 mph, no one left behind and those who want to go faster sure can!** **As always optional lunch after.** **This is the second Metro Park in the lineup - with 21 to go (plus more are being added).** **Also I have a conflict and am not available so have asked Karin to lead!**