Bird Watching

Spring is here with its sparks, its sunny spells and wild flowers. Love is in the air, baby animals all over the place and the nature is showing off with various dresses of greens, purple or pink. What a better season to visit our woodlands and fields, our castles and rich historic heritage? and you know what? IT IS BLUEBELLS SEASON! So this year, I am taking you on a new trail in the Kents Down, about 45 minutes away from London for what best countryside has to offer! There is no better season to visit our ancient woodlands and after a few months by the sea, it is time to enjoy nature at its best! We will walk 11 miles in the woods, the fields, in Castle grounds surrounded by bluebells, herds of the three species of deer that inhabit these ancient lands. We will walk pass two impressive middle ages buildings, first Knole castle, a stunner and Ingham Castle, the castle is a medieval moated manor house. The architectural writer John Newman once described it as "the most complete small medieval manor house in the county. The house is a Grade I listed building , and a stunning one! After this beautiful hike yet so close to London, those who wish will be welcome to join us at a pub or restaurant to fill our bellies or get tipsy. So now! What you should do you are asking? Well, click attend, send me some pennies and get ready for a lovely day out with the world's funniest people, the infamous Jonions and their mama!(me) 😃 INFORMATION: Distance: 11 Miles/16 km Duration: about 5 hours Steepness: Medium, a couple of short climbs, not too steep. Difficulty: Medium, there will be small hills so it is perfect for beginners or keen hikers alike. PRICE: £17 for the guide's fee via paypal Less than £20 in cash for the train ticket, probably less, we will buy a group return ticket together to save about 35% INCLUDED: Guided hike A great time with lovely people NOT INCLUDED: Train Anything not mentioned above WHAT TO BRING: Waterproof shoes for the hike, preferably hiking shoes, otherwise good trainers; Weather appropriate clothes, including waterproofs if there is a chance of rain; Water bottle; Packed lunch and snacks. MEETING POINT: London Charing Cross at 10am ATTENTION: Our trips will not be cancelled due to weather conditions so please ensure that you do wear and carry appropriate clothing. 😄 POLICIES: 1: This group is designed for the pleasure and enjoyment of all of us, we do not accept any derogatory comments or behaviours towards anyone. Racism, discrimination and other unacceptable behaviours will only lead to your rejection of any of our trips and this is without exception. Everyone is welcome, we have religious and non-religious people, gay, straight, bisexual people, all shades and colours or nationalities, people of all ages, sex and political beliefs and mutual respect is the fundamental spirit of this group. 2: Our trips are only refundable up to 30 days before departure, if you wish to cancel after that, you will be offered a transfer to another trip for the same price or you may resell your slot to somebody else. 3: If we do cancel the entirety of the trip on our site, you will be fully refunded. 4: If you miss a trip: £17 trips: You may transfer to a future trip of the same price if you cannot make it. £70 or above: No refund or transfer possible as you would have blocked a spot and I would have paid for transport already.

Do you want to relax and socialize in a quiet bar while watching some movies or tv series together? Do you dislike loud and smelly places like pubs? Have you been cooped up by yourself for too long and wants a change of pace? This is the event for you. Join us for a laid-back Netflix watch party at XP Tavern— perfect setup with big screens, solid sound, and plenty of space to spread out. The bar has Netflix, Amazon Prime, Now TV, Youtube Prime etc. Expect good vibes, cold drinks, bar food, maybe some discussions during breaks, and zero pressure to stay quiet — react, laugh, scream, all welcome. How many people are attending? The venue has a capacity limit of 50 guests, and due to the popularity of our events and the unique ambiance of the location, we anticipate this event will reach full capacity quickly. On the day of the event, you will experience a relaxing atmosphere with a hospitable and encouraging community. Feel free to come with friends or by yourself. Most people come alone and make new friends at the event. When we arrive in the first hour, we will socialize, get some drinks and talk about what movies/tv series we love. Afterwards we will vote on which show to watch for each group. Then we will settle into the watch booths and enjoy a cinematic experience for the rest of the evening. If you want to socialize and get drinks, the event is free. If you want to participate and watch with the group, you gotta pay £12 per two hours.

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 9 miles (14km) • Grading: [Beginners](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) with one main hill that we take gently • Ascent: 140m • Hiking time: 4 to 4.5 hours • Cost: £31 (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 lunch stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Liverpool Street station. Meet in front of the Information point in the centre of the station - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LiverpoolStreet.jpg) & [PHOTO](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LiverpoolStreetPhoto.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:40am, leave 9am for the 9:15am train • Return: 5:33pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • **Hadleigh Country Park** \- one of the largest in Essex • **Hadleigh Castle** \- enchanting 13th\-century ruins • **Estuary island of Two Tree Island Nature Reserve** \- a sanctuary for birdlife and marine species • **Leigh-on-Sea** \- often ranked as one of the best places to live in the UK\, a historic fishing town famous for its freshly caught cockles \- a local delicacy • Sweeping views of **the River Thames** estuary throughout the trail • Spot iconic bird species like herons, kestrels and peregrines, for all full list of birds you can see and seasons - [LINK](https://www.ebws.org.uk/birdsites/two-tree-island-leigh-sea) • Remnants of local fishing traditions at the **"Graveyard of Lost Species"** 🥾 **Hike Description** Our hike begins as we follow scenic trails into **Hadleigh Country Park**, a sprawling 387-acre area of meadows, marshes, and woodlands recognized for its natural beauty and biodiversity. We ascend toward **Hadleigh Castle**, perched atop a ridge with captivating views over the Thames Estuary. Built in the 13th century, the castle was a strategic defensive position and later immortalised in a painting by John Constable. We pause to soak in the panoramic views and immerse ourselves in Essex’s medieval past that has inspired artists and writers for centuries. Continuing along the **Thames Estuary Path**, we journey toward **Two Tree Island**, a 634-acre nature reserve surrounded by saltmarsh and tidal mudflats. This peaceful island is crucial for various bird species, providing winter refuge for migratory birds. It is a haven for birdlife, including avocets, brent geese, and Mediterranean gulls. Finally, we arrive in **Leigh-on-Sea**, a charming seaside town with a proud fishing heritage that still continues today. Known for its vibrant maritime culture and delicious cockles and often ranked as one of the best places to live in the UK, Leigh-on-Sea offers the perfect end to our hike, we have time to explore and also enjoy a drink in a coastal pub. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [PAUL](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07873 221480 🍽️ **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) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

**Dover → Folkestone via Samphire Hoe** **The Plan:** * **Distance:** 9 miles * **Duration:** about 3.5 hrs * **Elevation:** +650 ft / –775 ft **Difficulty:** *Moderate*\- some cliff and hill\, yet rewarding\. Expect rolling paths\, dramatic cliffside views\, and just enough ups and downs to keep things interesting\. **Highlights Along the Way** 🔹 Shakespeare Cliff - A sweeping cliff face named after the Bard himself, offering a jaw-dropping first glimpse of the coastline’s grandeur. 🔹 Samphire Hoe - A stunning nature reserve born from the earth dug out of the Channel Tunnel. Here, wildflowers bloom against chalky cliffs, seabirds soar overhead, and the wind carries the salt and freedom of the open sea. 🔹 Abbot’s Cliff Sound Mirror - A fascinating relic from 1928, this huge concrete dish once listened for enemy aircraft long before radar existed. Stand here and let history surround you. 🔹 Sweeping Cliff-Edge Views - The path hugs the edge of the cliffs, where turquoise waters crash against chalky walls below — a perfect spot for epic photos and quiet moments alike. **Reward Yourself in Folkestone:** After nearly 9 miles of pure coastal magic, Folkestone greets you with open arms. Settle into a seaside restaurant, order something hearty, and watch the sun melt into the horizon. The ocean sparkles, the air buzzes with the hum of the harbour, and you’ve earned every single bite. **\[Check out our last trip on HERE\]\(Check out our last trip video HERE\)** **A few things to know before you book:** * **Tickets:** Non-refundable, but if you can’t make it, you’re welcome to pass your spot on to someone else. A full refund will be issued if the hike is cancelled by the organiser. * **Getting there:** Trains to Dover are usually around £28 return when booked in advance, or £23 Super Off-Peak with a Network Railcard. * **Meeting points:** Two options — travel together from London, or meet us directly at Dover train station if you’re coming from elsewhere. * **Weather:** The hike goes ahead rain or shine, so bring layers and be ready for all conditions. * **The route:** We’ll be walking along coastal paths near the cliffs. The scenery is incredible, but some sections are exposed — sturdy footwear is a must, and please follow the guide’s instructions throughout. **Not included:** * Food & Refreshments * Transport (network railcard is recommended or group ticket bought on the day) * Anything else not listed above **⚠️ Health & Safety ⚠️** • Participants take part at their own risk. • The guide (professional event organiser ) is not responsible for personal injury, loss, or accidents. • Please ensure you are fit enough for the hike and follow safety instructions on the trail.

Come along on Sunday 12th April for lunch before the guided walk. **About the event** Once a month at lunchtime before the guided walks, we will be having lunch in a local cafe or pub in the area the walk is in. It's a chance to chat and get to know people in the group in a quiet relaxed setting. Each month's place will be in a different part of London and different cafes or pubs. The lunches are open to all, whether you come on the walk or not. Lookout for the 'London Cultureseekers' group signs on the tables when you get to the cafe. Hope to see you there! Robert 07905 901 834 (prefer text) or email: [general@cultureseekers.org](general@cultureseekers.org) ***On the day, if you can’t make the visit, just change your RSVP to No or text me to say you can’t make it. Please don’t post any messages in the comments that you can’t make it, as this generates spam for everyone else.*** ***Please make sure you are aware of the group rules here before RSVPing - [https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/523578875/Group_Rules/](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/523578875/Group_Rules/)***

**Walk from Garston to the historic [city of St Albans](https://www.hikinginlondon.co.uk/st-albans-abbey).** The route takes you through **[Bricket Wood Common](https://www.hikinginlondon.co.uk/bricket-wood-common "Bricket Wood Common")**, **Lord Knutsford’s manor at Munden**, the beautifully converted **Netherwylde Farm**, and along the **Colne and Ver rivers** to **Moor Mill** and **[St Albans Abbey](https://www.hikinginlondon.co.uk/st-albans-abbey "St Albans Abbey")**. **Route Details:** * **Distance:** 14.55 km (9.04 miles) * **Walking Time:** Approximately 5 hours * **Total Event Duration:** At least 7 hours (including travel, sightseeing, and meals) * **Difficulty Level:** 2 out of 10 ([easy](https://www.hikinginlondon.co.uk/faq/trails/trail-difficulty.html) terrain with gentle hills) * **Total Ascent:** 120 m (400 ft) **Transport & Meeting Point:** * **Initial Meeting:** Join us at [Euston Station](https://maps.app.goo.gl/5Yeevaf9XfPAFqa38) at **9:30 AM**. We'll convene next to the ticket office and WHSmith. * **Arrival at** [Garston station](https://maps.app.goo.gl/WLSLNFcjRqEQwwsc6 "Garston station") at 10:23 AM. * **Return Time:** We plan to be back in London by **7:30 PM**. * **Travel Details:** We've secured a group train ticket for the journey. Commit to an unforgettable day of adventure! **Price**: £12 (without transport) If you’d like to include train tickets, please book directly on our website: https://www.hikinginlondon.co.uk/garston-to-st-albans-abbey-sun.html **Note:** Don’t worry if the attendee list looks small — we also sell tickets on other platforms and our website! Got questions? Call or text **Maria** at **07535 295739**.

Join us in the beautiful Holland Park to enjoy new perspectives on everything Spring has to offer! We will capture the dense surrounding woodland, outdoor sculptures, landscaped Dutch Gardens and the peaceful oasis of Kyoto Garden featuring traditional Japanese elements such as a tranquillity pond, giant koi carp, a shishi-odoshi (鹿威し), waterfalls and cherry blossoms. If we are lucky we may bump into the resident peacocks, herons, moorhens and very well fed squirrels! As the park is in full bloom we will take advantage of the ability to get up close to the flowers. This means we can practice **abstract flower photography**. **EQUIPMENT** * Any camera * Any lens * Kit lens * 50mm/70-200 * Macro lens **EXPERIENCE LEVEL** * Beginner / refresher * We will be on hand to provide basic creative and technical guidance and valuable hints and tips **OTHER ESSENTIALS** * A curious mind * A fun and experimental attitude! * Please check with TFL for any disruptions that may delay your journey * Please check the weather and dress accordingly **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)

Join me for a chilled out afternoon cuppa/drinks and nibbles. As this is for a small group please do not sign up and forget about this - you will need to cancel your place if you can no longer go. Please do not wear any sportswear or you won't be allowed in. I wasn't able to book and was told I could just walk in so I am going early. I will post where I am once I am there.

**TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS EVENT DOWNLOAD THE NEW WEMEET APP AND SIGN UP FROM THERE:** https://shor.by/WeMeet_Events **Smash 2026 hiking the North Downs Way. This is section 7: Cuxton to Detling** Join us for a day hike along the **North Downs Way**, tracing ancient routes through Surrey to the Kent Coast. Discover castles, cathedrals and beautiful countryside along the way. After the walk, we’ll unwind at a local watering hole for a drink! This hike is part of a **series of 12 day hikes**, covering the full North Downs Way between January-June. Those completing the entire trail will receive an **official finishers certificate!** **Details:** * This 24km hike features the stunning Bluebell Hill, the finest views in Kent & a neolithic megalith older than Stonehenge! * **MEET:** 08.05 London Bridge. Transport is at your own cost. We catch the 08:18 train to Cuxton. * **STARTING POINT**: Cuxton 9.37am * **ENDING POINT**: Bearsted (around 4.30/5pm) **What to bring:** 🥾Hiking shoes 🧥Warm layers 🧃Snacks & drinks 💊Any personal medication Disclaimer: I am not a qualified walk leader (yet), although I do have a lot of experience and will carry a first aid kit for the basics. Join the WhatsApp group: A link will be emailed to you after RSVP, this will be the primary tool for all communications. Come hike, explore, and make new friends on this iconic trail!

**walk, shoot, explore · relaxed social photowalk to primrose hill** (for complete beginners to pros) we’ll start in camden, move through the area, and finish up around primrose hill for a casual social photography walk. all levels welcome. **what this is** a social photowalk through camden and primrose hill **the vibe** relaxed, creative, easy to join **who this is for** people who like photography and want a good group without it feeling forced **how it works** meet up, walk, shoot, chat, finish with a casual share **why this one matters** it’s a simple way to meet people and get fresh shots in the city **tickets & payment** **just £10 for 2hr session -** rsvp + payment on arrival **about safeena (your host)** trained photographer, a friendly local & official camden guide brings a grounded, creative eye to the walk **final note** bring whatever you like to shoot with see you there 📸 p.s. by attending, you agree to our [event terms & conditions](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vS3p3ZAhIoCyq3kHFEliu2NCaT8iHfz5E_nUxcUTr7rsDufU7x5BNB_Ta2BWqtTYX72rEAjBG2nOcze/pub)

Who else is ready to sit outside? 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!

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 a good/fun/meaningful time together, Dan

Let’s get together for a relaxed Saturday brunch! This will be the very first event for our group. Whether you’re looking to meet new friends, get out more, or just enjoy good conversation over brunch, this is the perfect place to start. We’ll be meeting at The Goat Gahanna for great food, drinks, and a welcoming, no-pressure atmosphere.

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... 🌻🌼🌷🐤