Camping

Walk length 20 miles/32 km approx. Circular. A very panoramic walk that crosses paths over chalk grassland and woodland from Dunstable Downs to Ivinghoe Beacon. The mid point/lunch stop is close to the National Trust visitor centre at Dunstable Downs The Visitor Centre at Dunstable Downs is 243m (797ft) above sea level and Ivinghoe Beacon stands at 233m (757ft) above sea level, the views from both are fantastic. Some features on this walk include a chance to see the Whipsnade Tree Cathedral before taking a route along the edge of the Whipsnade Wildlife Park. The Tree Cathedral was created by Edmund Blyth in memory of fallen comrades after the First World War as a spirit of 'faith, hope and reconciliation, he was inspired by the beauty of a sunlit group of trees seen on the way home from a visit to the Anglican Cathedral at Liverpool. It is now owned by the National Trust. This walk also follows some of the oldest tracks in Britain, with paths such as the Icknield Way; extending from Ivinghoe Beacon in Buckinghamshire to Knettishall Heath in Norfolk and a small section of the Ridgeway, 87 miles (139km) long, an ancient chalk ridge route used in prehistoric times. Meeting: We are meeting outside Tring station (main station car park) for the hike to start after the train from London arrives at 10.02am. Tring Station, Tring HP23 5QS. (please note Tring station has no facilities however there are facilities at the Ashridge Vistor Centre less than and hour into the walk). The 9.25am train from London Euston arrives at Tring station at 10.02am. Train ticket approx £15.00 using a group save or national railcard. If you want to meet to get any group saves meet close to the ticket office at 9.00am in case you need to queue (photo below). The organizer is not coming by train but will meet you at Tring station. By car to Tring: The car park at Tring Station is charged at weekends. Other road parking around close to the station is limited. If coming by car you could meet us at Aldbury as there is more off street parking, Meet us in the main village green, it is only a small village, if you want to do this be on the green no later than 10.30am when we pass by, the village is 1mile from Tring Station (please let me know you are doing this so I can lookout for you). Lunch & Finish Please bring a packed lunch and water for the walk. This walk should finish about 5.00pm and include a 30 min snack lunch stop, however the time maybe earlier or later than this depending on the weather and pace (this is a complete day event and you are advised not to arrange plans for the evening). Tring rail station station has no facilities. We pass the Bridgewater monument and Visitor Centre 1.5 miles into the walk. We are stopping close to the Dunstable Downs Visitor Centre for lunch. Cost: £7 cash or paypal (colin45@[hotmail.co](http://hotmail.co/).uk) payable on the day guided walk & meetup costs. You can do paypal or bank transfer if you prefer, please message the organizer. If you do paypal please send as friends and family to avoid charges. Please make a note of the organizers numbers - Colin 07709305681.. THIS IS A LONG AND SUBSTANTIAL HIKE WITH NUMEROUS HILLS & SOME SHARP ACCENTS & DESCENTS, TIME FOR SIGHTSEEING BUT ALSO TAKEN AT A GOOD STEADY PACE, PLEASE ENSURE YOU ARE HAPPY WITH THIS BEFORE YOU RSVP. 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 should 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/3170152/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.

Movement is one of the most dynamic storytelling tools in photography. In this workshop you will learn how to freeze action with crisp precision and how to create motion through intentional blur, panning, and long exposures. Through demonstrations and experimentation, everyone will leave with a stronger technical foundation and a creative spark for capturing motion. We will provide you with a **PLATYPOD** to help stabilise your camera. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN * Understand long exposure: master shutter speed, aperture & ISO * Harness motion blur * Add drama, motion and depth to your photography * Utilise Platypod for steady, low-angle perspectives * Intentional camera movement (ICM) * Panning to track a moving subject **PAYMENT OPTIONS** * **PayPal via RSVP** * The Meetup transaction fee will be added. and you'll automatically be added to attend * **Send £25 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. EQUIPMENT: * Any camera * Any lens 24-70mm etc * Tripod (optional) 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 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)

🖖 A quick heads up! We usually have 10 plus people, and we game through the night, DM us for the link the group WhatsApp 🎲👫 **Weekly Board Gaming Night in Islington!** 🎲👫 Hey Board Gamers! Are you ready to roll the dice and embark on thrilling adventures right here in London? Join us for a fantastic evening of strategy, fun, and camaraderie at our **Weekly Board Games Night** in Islington! 🌟 📍 **Venue:** The Archway Tavern, Islington, London 🚶‍♂️ Right by the Archway Tube, in the centre of Navigator Square 🗓️ **When:** Every Week from 5pm - 11pm We're all about those intricate Euro-style games and modern classics that challenge the mind and spirit. Whether you're a seasoned player of **Scythe**, a master builder in **Catan**, a strategic traveller in **Ticket to Ride**, or ruling the dunes in **Dune Imperium**, we've got a spot for you at our table! 🎲🏰 What to Expect: - A cozy evening at the Archway Tavern 🍻, a perfect backdrop for our gaming escapades. - A variety of games available, but feel free to bring your favorites to share with the group! 🕹️ - A friendly, welcoming atmosphere where you can dive deep into games and make new friends. 👭👬 This meet is perfect for those who: - Are new to gaming but want to learn and play in a friendly group 🫶 - Love Euro-style board games and modern classics 🌍 - Are looking for a regular group to enjoy board gaming 🎉 - Want to meet other like-minded individuals in a relaxed setting 🤝 👉 Spots are limited, so RSVP now to secure your place at the gaming table! Let's make this a weekly highlight! Can't wait to see you there and get our game on! 🚀 📢 Spread the word and bring your friends – the more, the merrier! See you at The Archway Tavern.🎲❤️

Participation in group travel is optional. You may attend the hike using your own transport. The hike itself is free of charge. If you are attending this hike event: \-\-\- **EVENT** FREE HIKE 25km \| Tough Hilly Lewes Circular \[**[LINK](https://www.meetup.com/freehiketogether/events/312882688/)**] \-\-\- **DATE** Sunday 15 March 2026 \-\-\- **THIS OFFER APPLIES TO YOU IF** * You want to pay a £13 total travel cost for the entire day * You are happy to travel in a group of four * You understand that individual tickets cannot be issued * You will be travelling from **London Victoria** to **Lewes** and returning from **Lewes** to **London Victoria** \-\-\- **HOW IT WORKS** You pay the organiser £13 in advance. The organiser will purchase group tickets once a full group of four has been confirmed. If a group of four is not confirmed, your payment will be fully refunded and you will need to arrange your own travel. \-\-\- **REFUNDS** If a group of four is not confirmed, your payment will be fully refunded and you will need to arrange your own travel. Once tickets have been purchased from National Rail, refunds are not possible. \-\-\- **❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS** **Q: What if I want to leave the group and travel on my own later?** A: You cannot. You must remain with your group of four for the entire journey. **Q: Will the organiser give me an individual ticket?** A: No. The ticket issued is a group ticket and is valid only for four people travelling together. **Q: Will the organiser give a group of four people a ticket?** A: Yes. A group ticket will be provided as long as all four people stay together and travel together. **Q: Who holds the group tickets, and how do we get through the barriers?** A: The organiser will hold and present the tickets. We will pass through the barriers together as one group. **Q: How much will it cost me on the day if I buy a return ticket with a Network Railcard?** A: Around £25.30, so you will save about £12. \-\-\- **PAYMENT** Sale has ended After completing payment, please send a private message to AdrianB confirming that payment has been made. Include your transaction ID and Meetup profile name so your bank account display name can be matched to your Meetup profile. \-\-\- **CLOSING DATE** Sales close on **Tuesday 10 March at noon,** when the tickets will be purchased. \-\-\- **CONTACT** AdrianB: +44 (0) 7438 812 663 \-\-\- 📍 **LONDON MEETING POINT - GROUP TRAVEL** AdrianB will be at the meeting point holding the group tickets. 08:15 Meet at London **[Victoria ticket office](https://w3w.co/gear.deputy.orbit)** 08:30 Leave the meeting point and board the train 08:46 Train departs London Victoria 09:50 Train arrives at Lewes \-\-\- Please go up the stairs and exit via the main entrance. At the end of the hike, we will travel back to London as a group. \-\-\- You may also join the group on the train at an intermediate station, such as Clapham Junction or East Croydon, to avoid travelling all the way to the main meeting point. However, you must first purchase a valid ticket to pass through the barriers at those stations when entering and exiting. \-\-\- **IMPORTANT** Please ensure you arrive at the meeting point on time. If you are not there when we leave to board the train, the group will proceed without you. \-\-\- Anyone who has signed up but has not paid will be removed from the event to allow others who are ready to pay to take their place. \-\-\- **GROUPS** Adrian - Paid Ashvin - Paid Angela - Paid Denise - Paid \-\-\- Ranji - Paid Sandra - Paid Stavros - Paid Sherban - Paid —- Adam - Paid Emily - Paid Federica - Paid Stpehen - Paid \-\-\- **NOTE** If you prefer to arrange your own group travel, you can purchase tickets directly from National Rail **[HERE](https://ticket.southernrailway.com/daysave/2026-03-15/VIC/4/)**.

🍀 Join Us for St. Patrick’s Weekend at Tipsy Dog! 🍀 St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, and Tipsy Dog is excited to celebrate with you! We’re bringing a festive Irish atmosphere with a special selection of: 🍺 Irish beers 🥃 Irish liqueurs 🧀 Irish snacks As a thank you for celebrating with us, guests who purchase beer or other drinks will receive a complimentary Irish shot. Plus, wear green and enjoy a special discount on your order! Whether you’re stopping by with friends, gathering with family, or coming in to make new ones, we look forward to sharing a fun and memorable St. Patrick’s Weekend with you. 📅 Sunday, 15th March 2026 ⏰ 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM 📍 Location: Unit 4, 12 Heath street, Hampstead NW3 6TE We can’t wait to celebrate with you at Tipsy Dog!

📏 **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** • Location: PLEASE READ CAREFULLY before leaving home - you need to enter on the correct main entrance to the station, only this entrance leads to our meeting point, we advise allowing 10 minutes to find it: Fenchurch Street station inside the main entrance at the front of the station. Meet at the top of the escalators in front of the ticket office and the platform ticket barriers – [PHOTO](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Fenchurch.jpg). Please note - you must come in the main entrance at the front of the station, not any of the other station entrances. The main entrance is on a street called "Fenchurch Place", you can see it here on this Google Maps [LINK](https://www.google.com/maps/place/51%C2%B030'42.3%22N+0%C2%B004'45.3%22W/@51.51174,-0.079249,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d51.51174!4d-0.079249?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDQwMi4xIKXMDSoJLDEwMjExNDUzSAFQAw%3D%3D) • Time: Meet 8:40am, leave 9am for the 9:18am 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

**Do this walk because** \- You are welcome to join us for a walk in the Cotswolds\. **Please note that its Mother's day.** We will be walking with another Meetup Group called 'Variety is the Spice' so this is a good opportunity to make new friends. Carl R will lead the walk. **Walk facts** **Form:** Circular walk from Charlbury railway station. **Distance:** Approximately 13 km / 8 miles **Duration:** actual walking time, circa 3.5 hours. **Hike grade:** Easy/Moderate with a total ascent of 155m. **What to take**: A packed lunch and plenty of water. [Charlbury - BBC Weather](https://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2653339) **Also, we're not insured, so please have your own insurance for this type of activity.** **Walk description** Soon after leaving Charlbury railway station we'll join a fairly level bridleway that will take us to the hamlet of Chilson. From Chilson we'll head for Pudlicote Water Meadows & join the [Oxfordshire Way](https://www.walkingenglishman.com/ldp/oxfordshireway.html) . After about 3km we take some lesser known paths that lead us back to Charlbury. **Walk start location** Charlbury railway station. The walk will start promptly at 11.05am. **Transport from Reading Central Railway Station** There will a 7 seater vehicle from Reading (return) (Please contact Carl to reserve a seat). Pick up from Reading Central railway station at 9.15am. **Costs** The walk is free of charge. On this occasion we are not raising money for charity. £5 donation towards Meetup costs for passengers in our 7 seater vehicle from Reading (return). **KEY INFORMATION** YOU MUST READ THE THREE SECTIONS BELOW - if you join this trip, you're confirming that you have. 1. [The perilous bit](https://1drv.ms/w/s!Amm1USRcx4vIguYmnugrVTjSPTyGAQ?e=KEtxLW) 2. [Our FAQs](https://1drv.ms/w/s!Amm1USRcx4vIguYnTkTcg0qmj9tSzw?e=RtfXnP), including an explanation of Group save tickets which will save you money. 3. See here for [what to wear and take](https://1drv.ms/w/s!Amm1USRcx4vIguYkeUPX7cpM0ZrmIA?e=Bn1d7g). Specifically make sure you bring good hiking boots and that you are ready for muddy conditions . Please - no trainers, they are not suitable for walking in the wintry muddy conditions. **AND FINALLY** On this occasion we are not raising money for charity.

***PLEASE NOTE:*** *Signup for our events must be made through the London Sailing Club website, and not via Meetup - [click here to register](https://www.londonsailing.club/Events/Calendar/View?id=201). If you are not already a member of the club you will need to become a full or social member which you can do [by clicking here](https://www.londonsailing.club/Registration/Register?isSlotReAssignment=False).* (Depart from / Return to Port Hamble Marina) **London Sailing Club Taster Day** Have you been along to one of our socials and heard about our sailing trips, or seen club trips advertised on Meetup or our club's website, but you're not quite sure whether it's for you? Here is your chance to try out sailing with the club without committing to a multi-day trip. We're sure you're going to love it out on the water with us, and will want to come out with us again! For insurance reasons all participants in club trips must be adults and full members of the club (annual membership fee is £24). We're confident you will have a great time and will want to come and sail with us again, but we're happy to refund your membership fee if, after your taster day, you decide membership is not for you. Membership benefits include the ability to join sailing trips in the UK, the Mediterranean and other European destinations, sailing skills weekends, lots of varied social events, free online Theory classes, access to our "Take The Helm" coaching programme to help you develop practical skippering experience after obtaining Day Skipper, special discounts on occasional RYA training from accredited schools, and up to 15% discount on bareboat chartering with partner companies. *Taster Day Plan* We will meet at Port Hamble Marina at 9am for introductions and a safety briefing aboard the yacht. Parking is available at the marina. We'll aim to set off before 10am to make the most of a day sailing on the Solent. Depending on the weather and the wind we might drop anchor for lunch, after which we'll make our way back to Port Hamble Marina and be off the boats around 4.00pm. Participants are welcome to stay on for drinks in the marina bar where they will likely meet other club members. If getting to Port Hamble by 9am is likely to be difficult, you are welcome to stay on the yacht the night before for an additional £20. Accommodation is in shared double cabins, though if fewer than 3 people request this option you may well have your own cabin. First time sailors may wish to [take a look at our list of FAQs](https://www.londonsailing.club/Cms/Spaces/DEFAULT/FAQs+for+firsttime+sailors) and we also have a [recommended kit list](https://www.londonsailing.club/Cms/Spaces/DEFAULT/Recommended+kit+lists+for+sailing+trips). *Yachts* We have chartered a 37ft yacht and will sail with a maximum of six. We want everyone to have enough space and a proper chance to be involved in the sailing. If you’re new to yachting, you’ll be pleased to know the boats have heating, hot/cold running water, a bathroom, a kitchen with a fridge, and more than enough electricity to charge your phone! *Skippers & First Mates* The crew will be led by one of LSC's fantastic and experienced skippers and depending on the level of experience on board we may also have a First Mate from the club's Take The Helm programme. *Kit* No special or expensive sailing kit required! Just bring practical footwear and clothing to suit the weather forecast. Lifejackets are provided. Foul weather gear can be hired locally if needed. Don't forget sunglasses and sunscreen and a change of clothes if the forecast suggests it! If you are staying on the boat you should bring a sleeping bag and pillow as no bedding is provided. The marina has shoreside showers and toilets, so you are not restricted to using the more limited facilities on board the boat. *Cost* This is a non-commercial trip run on a shared-cost basis. The cost is £90 per person (not including the annual membership fee for which you pay separately), which covers the yacht charter, fuel, marina fees, lunch, snacks, and soft drinks on board during the taster day, as well as a £5 contribution to the club's Muck Up Fund which allows us to help skippers on club trips manage the risk of accidental damage caused by trip participants. It doesn’t cover getting yourself to/from the trip or any meals or drinks on shore. We ask for the full amount up front to secure your place. Accommodation on board the night before is available separately at an additional £20. Note that, because this trip is being advertised via the London Sailing Club’s platforms, any participant who is not already a full member of the Club (which costs £24 per year) will need to join prior to the start of the trip. We're sure you're going to love sailing with us and will want to come along on more trips, but if you decide that you don't want to sail with us after your taster day we will refund your membership fee. London Sailing Club Ts and Cs apply.

################# **We’ve created a list of [FAQs](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1e4VGmwhurmCng2cY3ZJHOS4j9ZlWKaX1/view?usp=sharing) to help answer your questions.** ################# Come and join us for a truly magical hike to the Cotswolds to explore some of the most beautiful villages in Britain! Think honey-coloured cottages, cosy pubs, tiny tearooms and narrow streets. The unspoilt market towns and villages of the Cotswolds have a quintessential English charm found nowhere else in the world. It really is a unique experience! We'll begin our hike in the charming old wool merchants' town of Chipping Campden, home to one of the prettiest high streets in England. Our trail will take us to the picturesque Cotswold villages of Broadway and Snowshill, through some of the region's best scenery: rolling hills (the "wolds"), ancient woodlands and dramatic escarpments with stunning panoramic views. The entire walk is within the protected Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the largest of the 38 AONBs in England and Wales. After the hike, we'll enjoy a well-deserved pint at the traditional 15th-century Snowshill Arms pub. **HIKE HIGHLIGHTS** * Visit the stunning market town of Chipping Campden, famous for its elegant terraced honey-coloured High Street, dating from the 14th century to the 17th century. Admire the imposing medieval church of St James and the 400-year-old Cotswold Market Hall. * Discover the picture-postcard village of Broadway (known as the “Jewel of the Cotswolds”), and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of its many charming, cosy tea rooms. * Pass through the outstandingly beautiful, unspoilt Cotswold village of Snowshill. * Climb Dover's Hill (230m), with its glorious views over the surrounding countryside. Dover's Hill was the site of the original English Olympic Games, which began here 400 years ago in 1612. * Climb to the magnificent Broadway Tower, built around 1800, and enjoy unrivalled panoramic views from one of England's favourite viewpoints. * Hike the northern section of the Cotswold Way – one of the 15 National Trails, passing through some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in Britain. **DISTANCE & DIFFICULTY** Distance: 9 miles (15km). Ascent: 450m. Difficulty: [Moderate](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BMjvqhAAdSeCdyzLPHs0z04_e2TiKdci/view?usp=sharing). **ITINERARY** **07:45** Meet outside Hotel Novotel London West, 1 Shortlands, W6 8DR (a five-minute walk from Hammersmith Station) **08:00** Sharp departure **10:30-13:45** Hike from Chipping Campden to Broadway village via Broadway Tower **13:45-14:45** Lunch in Broadway, free time to explore gift and craft shops **14:45-16:30** Hike to Snowshill village **16:30-17:00** Drinks and refreshments at the 15th-century Snowshill Arms Pub **17:00** Departure **19:30** London, Hammersmith **TRANSPORT** As on most of our trips, we'll travel in a comfortable 16-seater minibus. **BOOKING** To keep ticket prices down and avoid PayPal/Meetup fees (£7 extra per ticket), we kindly ask for payment by bank transfer. Please include your Meetup name and the trip as the payment reference (e.g. John Cotswolds). As places are limited, we can hold your place for 24 hours. Business Account Name: London Social Hiking Limited Sort Code: 20-17-20 Account Number: 63116514 We'll let you know by changing your status to “Paid” as soon as the payment is cleared. You can check your status next to your name in the [attendees list](https://www.meetup.com/londonsocialhiking/events/313366037/attendees) of the event. You don’t need a paid Meetup subscription to do this – just close any pop-up windows and continue. **THE PRICE OF £78 INCLUDES** * Transport throughout the trip * Experienced, professional PSV minibus driver * Guiding on all hiking routes by an experienced and qualified Mountain Leader * Professional event organisation * Group first aid kit with qualified first aiders * Admin fee * 20% VAT **THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** * Personal insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects, and personal trekking insurance) * Food **HOW TO CONTACT US** For all enquiries, please PM Anna (the main organiser) via Meetup. Alternatively, you can email us at info@lshiking.co.uk We'll usually get back to you within 4 hours. Your guide will be Anna (07596844467, only for use during the hike). Please get in touch if you have any difficulty locating the meeting point or need help during the trip. **WHAT TO BRING** * Suitable hiking shoes with ankle support * Sunscreen (if sunny) * Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers (if there is a chance of rain) * Water (min 1L) * Walking poles (optional) **REVIEWS ⭐** We have hosted over 600 events on Meetup and received an incredible number of positive reviews from our community. We’re proud to have achieved an **average event rating of 4.8 out of 5**. Please keep sharing your feedback – it helps us continue to improve and make every trip even better! **JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA** This is where we share pictures from our events. Feel free to use for inspiration on where to go next! [Facebook group link](https://www.facebook.com/groups/220802492121957) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/london_social_hiking/) **REFUND POLICY** You can check our refund policy [here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ny-b2NmMzBlpCiKjzkqC2vJEisxlORpn/view?usp=drive_link).

**IMPORTANT:** In order to secure your spot you must RSVP on the WeMeet app [here.](https://www.weroad.com/wemeet/events/london/trails-ales-north-downs-way-hike-50f3229e-e493-4f6b-879a-7c9591a109a3) Please also note this is a paid event of £8. **Smash 2026 hiking the North Downs Way. This is section 4: Merstham to Oxted.** 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 14km hike is one for climbers - a short section but up and down the North Downs Ridge, encountering great views. * **MEET:** 10:00am, East Croydon. Transport is at your own cost. Aiming for the 10:12 train to Merstham. * **STARTING POINT**: Merstham, 10:26am * **ENDING POINT**: Oxted (around 3/3.30pm) **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 on WeMeet, this will be the primary tool for all communications. Come hike, explore, and make new friends on this iconic trail!

A Rabble session is 1 hour of fun and social team games. Each game disguises high-intensity intervals within the rules, giving you an effective, all-body workout without even realising it. We play a bunch of different games at each session (like British Bulldog, Capture the Flag, Dodgeball, Frisbee and many more), and every class is different. Sessions are open to all, no matter your sporting ability. Each game is explained before we start, so there's no need to have played any of the games before. Come solo or bring friends! And stay at the end for the social part! Who knew getting fit could be this fun? **TO BOOK**: It's essential that you book onto sessions via our website, using the link below; due to restrictions on games and preparation times we cannot accept walk-ins, or late arrivals. [https://joinrabble.com/locations/london/](https://joinrabble.com/locations/london/) Use the code **FREEPLAY** to get your first game free! *** We play every: * Monday in Finsbury Park (19:00 - 20:00) * Tuesday in Shoreditch (19:00 - 20:00) * Wednesdays in Elephant & Castle (19:00-20:00) * Saturday in Southwark Park (10:30 - 11:30) * Saturday in Finsbury Park (11:00 - 12:00) * Sunday in Clapham Common - Exact Location is here : https://what3words.com/drums.yards.early We hope to see you playing soon! PS. We've got a group of dedicated regulars, so numbers are often much higher than Meetup might suggest. Sign up at: [https://joinrabble.com/locations/london/](https://joinrabble.com/locations/london/) **Love Rabble**

Welcome back ramblers, rovers, loungers and loafers! Once again, it's time to drift. We're picking up where we left off (well, a little west of there) last month to continue our long-term unguided navigation around the whole of London. We'll stay south of the river this time and keep pushing westwards into the heartland of glorious South London, starting from Greenwich and ending up, most likely, somewhere in Lambeth, via Peckham. These are some of the liveliest, most interesting parts of the metropolis so an extended exploration is a long time coming for us! Since this is a *dérive*, I won't say much more than that. Meet out in front of Greenwich station, serviced by the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) as well as Thameslink (which cost the same as the Tube and run from big stations such as Farringdon and King's Cross) and Southwestern rail services. Check planned TfL disruptions here - there are some disruptions to certain routes on the DLR for March 15th, but Greenwich station will be fine and our day should be all clear for most everybody: https://content.tfl.gov.uk/planned-track-closures.pdf A little background on our City Drifting project here: **Now just wait a minute. What the hell is a drift ([dérive](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C3%A9rive))?** A drift is any unplanned journey through the urban landscape in which participants practice a form of radical mindfulness, collectively exploring new ways of relating mentally, ideologically and materially to the "ordinary" urban environment we all think we know so well. First theorised publicly by Situationist thinker, artist and provocateur Guy Debord in his 1956 essay *[Theory of the Dérive](https://libcom.org/article/theory-derive-guy-debord)*, drifting is a sort of *critique of ideology* done by walking, looking, and feeling. **The urban environment of London is not a neutral space:** it is packed with surveillance equipment, anti-homeless architecture, consumerist [Gruen transfers,](https://www.smartcapitalmind.com/what-is-the-gruen-transfer.htm) crowd management systems and security perimeters, among a thousand other subtle and not-so-subtle methods of population control. Moreover, our everyday relationship to the city and its pathways is conditioned deeply by our habits of movement and our habitual perceptions: our commute to work, to school, our nips down to the shops, etc. **All these routines create what Marxists call a *reified* relationship with the urban environment: through over-familiarity it becomes something seemingly natural, "just there", ordinary, unchangeable - boring.** This boredom and familiarity kills the radical imagination, without which we're fucked. To be able to start to imagine how society could be transformed, we also need to imagine how spaces, buildings, their use, their whole purpose (and who these serve) could themselves be transformed. A necessary step in this process, according to Debord and the Situationists, is the drift. Like the 19th-century gentleman *[flâneur](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fl%C3%A2neur),* by wandering the city with an attitude of "fresh eyes", we can shake loose our ingrained sense of what London and its streets are like. **As a collective, we will work to "estrange our senses" and see the streets, buildings and people differently, as if we were encountering them for the first time.** That is to say: these aren't just random walks around London - with the right frame of mind, they will be opportunities to turn the world upside down, if only for a moment! But don't take it from me - as Debord observed: *"In a dérive one or more persons during a certain period **drop their relations, their work and leisure activities, and all their other usual motives for movement and action, and let themselves be drawn by the attractions of the terrain and the encounters they find there.** Chance is a less important factor in this activity than one might think: from a dérive point of view cities have [psychogeographical](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psychogeography) contours, with constant currents, fixed points and vortexes that strongly discourage entry into or exit from certain zones."* See you on the streets comrades, and remember, as [Raoul Vaneigem](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raoul_Vaneigem) once wrote: *"All space is occupied by the enemy. We are living under a permanent curfew. Not just the cops — the geometry".*

The Photoshop Bootcamp workshop is an intensive training course designed to quickly teach participants the fundamentals and intermediate skills needed to use Adobe Photoshop effectively. This workshop condenses the material covered in introductory and intermediate Photoshop courses into a shorter, information-packed weekend. Participants will learn to navigate the Photoshop workspace, use tools for retouching and color correction, and manipulate layers and adjustment layers. The workshop also emphasizes practical, hands-on experience with real-world image editing and compositing projects. The Photoshop Bootcamp workshop will follow the outline below: I. Introduction to Photoshop * **A. Understanding the Photoshop Interface:** Exploring the workspace, panels, tools, and options bar. * **B. Basic Image Concepts:** Pixels, resolution, image sizing, cropping, and color models (RGB vs. CMYK). * **C. Non-Destructive Editing Principles:** Why it's important and how to maintain flexibility. II. Working with selections * **A. Selection Tools:** Marquee, Lasso, Magic Wand, Quick Selection, and Pen tool. * **B. Refining Selections:** Using Select and Mask, feathering, and other techniques for precise edges. * **C. Creating and Managing Masks:** Layer masks for non-destructive selections and image blending. III. Layers and Adjustments * **A. Understanding and Managing Layers:** Creating, selecting, moving, grouping, and organizing layers. * **B. Blending Modes:** Exploring different ways layers interact and create visual effects. * **C. Adjustment Layers:** Non-destructive color and tonal adjustments (e.g., Levels, Curves, Hue/Saturation). IV. Photo retouching and manipulation * **A. Healing Tools:** Spot Healing Brush, Healing Brush, and Patch Tool for removing blemishes and unwanted elements. * **B. Clone Stamp Tool:** Duplicating and removing areas within an image for seamless repairs. * **C. Content-Aware Tools:** Using features like Content-Aware Fill and Content-Aware Move for intelligent object removal and image manipulation. V. Advanced techniques * **A. Smart Objects:** Working with Smart Objects for non-destructive transformations and advanced compositions. * **B. Filters and Effects:** Exploring the Filter Gallery and applying various effects to images and layers. * **C. Combining Images:** Compositing and blending multiple images seamlessly using selections, masks, and adjustment layers. VI. Output and workflow * **A. Saving for Web and Print:** Understanding image resolution, file formats, and optimization for different output needs. * **B. Exporting and Sharing Images:** Various methods for exporting and sharing your Photoshop creations. * **C. Workflow Tips and Best Practices:** Efficient techniques and organizational strategies for working in Photoshop. VII. Wrap-up and Q&A * **A. Review of Key Concepts:** Brief recap of the main topics covered during the workshop. * **B. Open Discussion and Questions:** Answering participants' questions and providing further guidance. * **C. Next Steps and Resources:** Suggesting additional resources for continued learning and exploration. The Photoshop Bootcamp workshop is a hands-on workshop, and example files and materials are made available to each participant. Each participant is required to have a computer available for use throughout the workshop. That computer must be adequately configured to run the latest version of Photoshop available in Adobe's Creative Cloud software suite (as of the time of this document, that version is Photoshop 2025 (Version 26.9.0)). Photoshop should be installed and operational before the commencement of the workshop. Please don't hesitate to contact me PRIOR TO THE WORKSHOP to confirm that you are indeed prepared for doing the hands-on exercises during the workshop. GENERAL WORKSHOP NOTES: There is a fee of $400 per person associated with this workshop. The Photoshop Bootcamp workshop comprises two sessions (Session 01, November 22nd, and Session 02, November 23rd). The $400 fee covers participation in both sessions. For scheduling purposes, on Meetup.com, the workshop is broken up into two (2) sessions. You only need to sign up for Session 01 (November 22nd), you will AUTOMATICALLY be signed up for Session 02 (November 23rd). The following registration/cancellation policy is in place for this workshop: * The workshop fee is due upon signing up for the event. You will be contacted shortly after you register to make arrangements for processing payment. * Participant cancellations before October 22nd are entitled to a FULL refund of the workshop fee. Participant cancellations after October 22nd, but before November 15th, are entitled to a 50% refund of the workshop fee. Participant who cancel **after November 15th** will not be entitled to a refund of their workshop fee. A continental breakfast is available each morning of the workshop (Session 01, November 22nd, Session 02, November 23rd) and includes coffee, tea, juice, and water. Lunch time (12:00 - 1:00 p.m.) features a catered lunch on each day of the workshop (Session 01, November 22nd, Session 02, November 23rd) and includes a selection of beverages such as coffee, iced tea, soda, and sports drinks.

The Photoshop Bootcamp workshop is an intensive training course designed to quickly teach participants the fundamentals and intermediate skills needed to use Adobe Photoshop effectively. This workshop condenses the material covered in introductory and intermediate Photoshop courses into a shorter, information-packed weekend. Participants will learn to navigate the Photoshop workspace, use tools for retouching and color correction, and manipulate layers and adjustment layers. The workshop also emphasizes practical, hands-on experience with real-world image editing and compositing projects. The Photoshop Bootcamp workshop will follow the outline below: I. Introduction to Photoshop * **A. Understanding the Photoshop Interface:** Exploring the workspace, panels, tools, and options bar. * **B. Basic Image Concepts:** Pixels, resolution, image sizing, cropping, and color models (RGB vs. CMYK). * **C. Non-Destructive Editing Principles:** Why it's important and how to maintain flexibility. II. Working with selections * **A. Selection Tools:** Marquee, Lasso, Magic Wand, Quick Selection, and Pen tool. * **B. Refining Selections:** Using Select and Mask, feathering, and other techniques for precise edges. * **C. Creating and Managing Masks:** Layer masks for non-destructive selections and image blending. III. Layers and Adjustments * **A. Understanding and Managing Layers:** Creating, selecting, moving, grouping, and organizing layers. * **B. Blending Modes:** Exploring different ways layers interact and create visual effects. * **C. Adjustment Layers:** Non-destructive color and tonal adjustments (e.g., Levels, Curves, Hue/Saturation). IV. Photo retouching and manipulation * **A. Healing Tools:** Spot Healing Brush, Healing Brush, and Patch Tool for removing blemishes and unwanted elements. * **B. Clone Stamp Tool:** Duplicating and removing areas within an image for seamless repairs. * **C. Content-Aware Tools:** Using features like Content-Aware Fill and Content-Aware Move for intelligent object removal and image manipulation. V. Advanced techniques * **A. Smart Objects:** Working with Smart Objects for non-destructive transformations and advanced compositions. * **B. Filters and Effects:** Exploring the Filter Gallery and applying various effects to images and layers. * **C. Combining Images:** Compositing and blending multiple images seamlessly using selections, masks, and adjustment layers. VI. Output and workflow * **A. Saving for Web and Print:** Understanding image resolution, file formats, and optimization for different output needs. * **B. Exporting and Sharing Images:** Various methods for exporting and sharing your Photoshop creations. * **C. Workflow Tips and Best Practices:** Efficient techniques and organizational strategies for working in Photoshop. VII. Wrap-up and Q&A * **A. Review of Key Concepts:** Brief recap of the main topics covered during the workshop. * **B. Open Discussion and Questions:** Answering participants' questions and providing further guidance. * **C. Next Steps and Resources:** Suggesting additional resources for continued learning and exploration. The Photoshop Bootcamp workshop is a hands-on workshop, and example files and materials are made available to each participant. Each participant is required to have a computer available for use throughout the workshop. That computer must be adequately configured to run the latest version of Photoshop available in Adobe's Creative Cloud software suite (as of the time of this document, that version is Photoshop 2025 (Version 26.9.0)). Photoshop should be installed and operational before the commencement of the workshop. Please don't hesitate to contact me PRIOR TO THE WORKSHOP to confirm that you are indeed prepared for doing the hands-on exercises during the workshop. GENERAL WORKSHOP NOTES: There is a fee of $400 per person associated with this workshop. The Photoshop Bootcamp workshop comprises two sessions (Session 01, November 22nd, and Session 02, November 23rd). The $400 fee covers participation in both sessions. For scheduling purposes, on Meetup.com, the workshop is broken up into two (2) sessions. You only need to sign up for Session 01 (November 22nd), you will AUTOMATICALLY be signed up for Session 02 (November 23rd). The following registration/cancellation policy is in place for this workshop: * The workshop fee is due upon signing up for the event. You will be contacted shortly after you register to make arrangements for processing payment. * Participant cancellations before October 22nd are entitled to a FULL refund of the workshop fee. Participant cancellations after October 22nd, but before November 15th, are entitled to a 50% refund of the workshop fee. Participant who cancel **after November 15th** will not be entitled to a refund of their workshop fee. A continental breakfast is available each morning of the workshop (Session 01, November 22nd, Session 02, November 23rd) and includes coffee, tea, juice, and water. Lunch time (12:00 - 1:00 p.m.) features a catered lunch on each day of the workshop (Session 01, November 22nd, Session 02, November 23rd) and includes a selection of beverages such as coffee, iced tea, soda, and sports drinks.

**Our March pick is *God of the Woods* by Liz Moore.** **This month’s novel is an award-winning literary mystery that blends family drama with psychological suspense. It explores women’s voices and relationships while delivering an exciting, eerie, and deeply suspenseful story. The book is 576 pages in print or 14 hours and 35 minutes on audiobook.** Early morning, August 1975: a camp counselor discovers an empty bunk. Its occupant, Barbara Van Laar, has gone missing. Barbara isn’t just any thirteen-year-old: she’s the daughter of the family that owns the summer camp and employs most of the region’s residents. And this isn’t the first time a Van Laar child has disappeared. Barbara’s older brother similarly vanished fourteen years ago, never to be found. As a panicked search begins, a thrilling drama unfolds. Chasing down the layered secrets of the Van Laar family and the blue-collar community working in its shadow, Moore’s multi-threaded story invites readers into a rich and gripping dynasty of secrets and second chances. It is Liz Moore’s most ambitious and wide-reaching novel yet.

Join us for 2.5 mile hike at the Whitehall Community Park leaving from the Whitehall YMCA. We will do two 1.25 loops around the park all on a paved path, including one significant hill.