Local History & Culture

**ISLINGTON EDGES.**............Brand new for 2025 On this tour we touch various parts of London from Islington to Camden, from Kings Cross to Bloomsbury from Clerkenwell to Angel. But central to it all is Islington so why not call it Islington edges ! London at its best with a complete mixture of subjects, from the death of a clown to a man made river, from a South African hero to Bob Dylan As usual there are blue plaques in abundance and a personal story that takes me back to my very early youth. Its a circular walk from Kings cross and back again taking over two hours but in that time we meet lots of the sort of characters and visit various places that helped make London the city we all love.

**ISLINGTON EDGES.**............Brand new for 2025 On this tour we touch various parts of London from Islington to Camden, from Kings Cross to Bloomsbury from Clerkenwell to Angel. But central to it all is Islington so why not call it Islington edges ! London at its best with a complete mixture of subjects, from the death of a clown to a man made river, from a South African hero to Bob Dylan As usual there are blue plaques in abundance and a personal story that takes me back to my very early youth. Its a circular walk from Kings cross and back again taking over two hours but in that time we meet lots of the sort of characters and visit various places that helped make London the city we all love.

**Meet at Tottenham Court Rd tube outside exit 1.** **"Tottenham Court Road**, a market road, or street, leading from Oxford Street to the prebendal manor of Tothill, Totenhall, or Totenham Court, described in Domesday, and originally appertaining to the Dean and Chapter of St. Paul's. In 1560 the manor was demised to Queen Elizabeth for ninety-nine years, in the name of Sir Robert Dudley." In 1639, twenty years before the expiration of Queen Elizabeth's term, a lease was granted to Charles I., in the name of Sir Henry Vane. In 1649, being seized as Crown land, the manor was sold to Ralph Harrison, Esq., of London, for the sum of £3318 : 3: 11. At the Restoration it reverted to the Crown; and in 1661 was granted by Charles II., for the term of forty-one years, in payment of a debt, to Sir Henry Wood. The lease was next possessed by Isabella, Countess of Arlington, in the reign of Charles II., from whom it descended to her daughter, the Duchess of Grafton; and in this way was inherited by the family of the Fitzroys, Dukes of Grafton, descended from Barbara Villiers, Duchess of Cleveland, the notorious mistress of Charles II." **Check out the Flying Horse pub (1793) opposite the tube exit. Previously " The Tottenham", this is the only surviving pub in Oxford St. See pics below.** This is another of our many outside Picture Hunts this year. If any issues with weather, we’ll switch to our 50-50 Trivia in the nearby Wetherspoon Magnus Pyle, so turn up as something will be on regardless. If you’re new to Picture Hunts, check the previous weeks for winners and clue sheets. This time, the event will be centred around different buildings, shops and features on one side of Tottenham Court Rd, so there’s no crossing of busy roads. This road is not touristy like Charing Cross Rd opposite. Please aim to turn up for 1:00-1:30 when teams are being arranged. The Hunt starts at 1:30. You're losing search time if you're late! Bring a pen please. As usual, portions of the road are split up into four areas where teams search for the locations of photographed items in the street, buildings or shop windows, and then record where they found them. Picture Hunts are a great new way to get up to speed with slices of London history while sleuthing around the area. Everyone is presented with twenty partial photos of objects around an area. Your team mission is to find them. Some well known, some well unknown! This makes Picture Hunts more interesting and challenging, bringing out the best of your teams detecting skills. You will also have a map of the area. It will be sub-divided into four sections, P, Q, R, S. Each photo will come from one of these. Four players max per team, but the lower number teams get a point per player start from the biggest team. For example, four teams of one, two, three and four. Four player team, no advantage, (the biggest and theoretically the more knowledge between them, except it doesn't always work like that). Three player team, one point start. Two player team, two point start. One player team, three point start. Scores are always close and around the 15-20 points mark. How many players do you want in your team? There's a dilemma! The clipboard holder enters one of the letters to note its area location. Dead simple, right? 90 minutes to do the hunt. We have the usual prizes of chocolate, including some great new varieties. There is also an equal prize for the funniest team name judged by Sue, my glamorous assistant. Names win prizes too! So there’s everything to play for. We mark up at the quiz finish point. The Wetherspoon Magnus Pyke. Hunts are good fun and the proven experience so far is that members get to know each other better after working in teams as you all have to communicate. Great icebreakers. This is what Meetup is all about. Come and join us. **There is a £7 cash/card charge for this event. Pay on the day.** Contact number is 07422334411 if your transport is delayed. **If you can’t make it, please cancel using the “Edit RSVP Button”.** **Your consideration is greatly appreciated.**

*This event is supported by [languagecalendars.com](https://www.languagecalendars.com/)* Get **£5 off** their language calendars, posters & tees 👉 use code **HOLA5** or click this link: [https://www.languagecalendars.com/discount/HOLA5](https://www.languagecalendars.com/discount/HOLA5) **🌍 Connecting locals and internationals in London 🌍** Join us every Monday evening in Clapham for the London Language Exchange, where over 40 people gather each week to practice new languages, share cultures, and make new friends. See pics of our previous events on our [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/babblelondon), and chat to other members who are coming via our [whatsapp group](https://languagexchanges.com/whatsapp/). **🙋 Who is this for?** All languages and levels are welcome, and we are inclusive of all ages, races, religions etc. Whether you're a polyglot, a beginner just starting with Duolingo Spanish, or you just want to come and socialise, you will be welcomed to our community of language learners and international friends. **🙌 What to Expect:** * **Language Practice:** Whether you’re fluent in Spanish, Italian, English, Arabic, Russian, Mandarin, or any other language, our hosts will help you connect with people who match your language interests. * **Friendly Hosts:** Our hosts will greet you at the entrance, give you a label where you can write the language(s) you speak and the ones you’d like to learn or practice. * **Inclusive Atmosphere:** We welcome all languages and levels, and make sure everyone feels comfortable—especially if you're coming alone! It’s a relaxed environment perfect for making new friends and practising languages at your own pace. * **Socialising:** Coming alone or with friends, this is a great opportunity to meet new people in the city. Unlike some other meetup ‘groups’, we do not fill our events with fake members, and you can check how many people attend each week via our [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/babblelondon). **👋 How does it work?** * **Arrive!** No need to register, just come to our event any time between 7-9pm and our event host will welcome you. They will have an orange lanyard and will be sitting next to our sign. * **Write your ‘Language Label’.** Here you can write your name, the languages you are learning, and the languages you can help others with. * **Pay.** Our £1 event fee pays for our lovely event hosts and keeps the event going. Card only please. * **Get talking!** With the help of our host you will be able to find other people attending the event with compatible language interests - we are all very friendly and the majority of our attendees come alone, so there’s no need to worry about getting involved! **📌 Where are we?** We’re normally located in the back room at O'Neill's in Clapham ([https://g.co/kgs/M4APaFg](https://g.co/kgs/M4APaFg)) 196 Clapham High St, London SW4 7UD However, always check the location on this meetup event and in our [WhatsApp Group](https://languagexchanges.com/whatsapp) just in case there is a change. **💡 Important Info:** Please disregard the attendee numbers shown on Meetup or Facebook. Because we meet at the same time and place every week, many regulars do not sign up beforehand, but we always have a great turnout, often exceeding 40 people. We also have many more participants who join through other platforms. **🔗 Connect With Us:** Stay updated by joining our WhatsApp and Facebook groups or following us on Instagram. You’ll get event updates and stay connected with the community! [https://linktr.ee/londonlanguageexchange](https://linktr.ee/londonlanguageexchange) **FAQ:** **Who is this for?** Anyone interested in languages, from complete beginners to fluent speakers! We welcome all levels and languages. **Do I need to sign up?** You don’t need to sign up, but feel free to join our WhatsApp group for updates and announcements. **Can I come alone?** Absolutely! Many people come solo, and it’s a great way to meet new friends in a relaxed environment. **How does the event work?** When you arrive, you’ll get a sticker to write your native language and the one(s) you’d like to practice. Our hosts will help you find people to chat with based on your preferences. **What if I don’t speak multiple languages?** No problem! Whether you’re fluent or just starting out with a new language, everyone is welcome. **More Questions?** Check out our [full FAQ here](https://languagexchanges.com/what-is-a-language-exchange/) **💛 WHAT THEY SAY** **🗣** “It's so great that people are very friendly and nice here. I practised my English speaking and listening.” - Gerome 🗣 “The language exchange events are a really great way not just to practise languages but also to meet new people in your area. I’ve made many local friends since I moved to the area” - Monika 🗣 “Everything was perfect. The host was so friendly and wonderful!” - Mojtaba 🗣 "It was a lovely language exchange, with lovely people. I practised so much German!" - Sara **About Languagexchanges:** We started in Leeds back in 2014 with the desire to provide a welcoming space that brings people together from all different walks of life, with a shared love of learning languages and culture. We now have communities across the UK including Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, Sheffield and York - [see all our locations.](https://languagexchanges.com/product-category/events/) 👔 Interested in working with us? [https://languagexchanges.com/work-with-us/](https://languagexchanges.com/work-with-us/) ✍️ Feedback form: [https://languagexchanges.com/events-feedback](https://languagexchanges.com/events-feedback) 📩 Email: [info@languagexchanges.com](http://mailto:info@languagexchanges.com/)

**How about a scenic social canal side walk?** *CONFIRM via the link:***[https://fatso.ma/fn76t](https://fatso.ma/fn76t)** **and please RSVP too!** **We are starting from the new exciting Camden Market Hawley Wharf ending up at Kings Cross Cole Drops Yard shops and open market.** **Walk, talk, smile, socialise, connect! Enjoy conversations with new people, uplift your spirit, recharge in the sunshine, by the canal. The water element has the ability to ground us and calm our brain!** It's the weekend! Make the most of your afternoon, bring your social and friendly self out, expand your social circle, talk about everything and anything that makes your heart sing! Make friends, create connections, or perhaps even bump into someone that can become truly that 'special one'! **What's the plan exactly & how to join :** *-With the best smile on your face! 😃* *Introduce yourself, make a best first impression, see it reflected back you!* ***-MEET-UP at 13:30 in front of POPEYES fast food restaurant right opposite CAMDEN TOWN tube station, as you exit right across the street*** Eleni will be holding a pink-fucshia bag! Please be on time as after 13:40 messages can not be replied. **-AT 13:40 WE ARE MAKING OUR WAY FROM CAMDEN MARKET HAWLEY WHARF AT LEISURE ALONGSIDE THE REGENT's CANAL TOWPATH TOWARDS KINGS CROSS COLE DROPS YARD enjoying a scenic walk!** An urban escape passing through this new exciting development with canal side cafes, shops, colourful boats and industrial buildings. **The walk takes approximately 35 mins and covers a distance of 1.3 miles approximately.** Once we reach Cole Drops Yard we are taking a walk around the stalls, discover the Word on the Water floating book store and enjoy a coffee, food or similar in one of the numerous cafes. **Let's socialise and meet new people or catch up with familiar faces.** Do not hesitate to join for the first time or by yourself as everyone is welcome and included. We must be the friendliest group in London! Please note that this is a social walk that allows easy flowing conversations, designed to bring people together in the open air scenic sites of London. By attending this event you are fully responsible for your own safety. Fee is non refundable, non transferable unless the event is cancelled

​Join us for a fun afternoon picnic this bank holiday - with tasty snacks and great conversations! ​🌳 **Where to Find Us** ​We’ll be gathering under the Shakespeare Oak at Primrose Hill. ​ **What to Bring** ​To make this a fun communal vibe, we encourage you to bring a snack or drink to share. ​While **any** food is welcome, it would be great to see some Korean or Japanese inspired treats! e.g. Onigiri, Kimbap, Mochi... 🍙🥢 ​If you can bring a picnic blanket, or anything else that might be useful at a picnic, that would be really helpful. Unfortunately BBQ's are not allowed in the park. ​**Who Can Join?** ​Everyone with an interest in Korean & Japanese culture is welcome. ​Our events have a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. There's usually a mix of newcomers and regulars who will make you feel welcome. 🌤 ​**Weather** We're expecting hot sunny weather, so please stay hydrated. ​Let’s leave no litter behind, and create some great memories together!

*“You can never go home again, but the truth is you can never leave home, so it’s all right.”* - Maya Angelou **Join us on Saturday 30th May at the Museum of the Home, a FREE museum in the heart of Hoxton.** From the museum website: “We are the only museum of the home in the world, a place to learn how we have lived in the past, explore how we live today, and talk about how we can live better together. What does home mean to you?” **Read more here:** [Museum of the Home website](https://museumofthehome.org.uk) **MEET DETAILS:** **FROM 1:30pm: MEET AT LONG WHITE CLOUD BAKERY (optional)** Address: 151 Hackney Rd, London E2 8JL **2pm: ENTER THE MUSEUM** Address: 136 Kingsland Rd, London E2 8EA **4:30pm-Late: PUB SOCIAL at THE HOXTON HOUND (optional)** We'll head to a local pub for a social chit chat over drinks. Address: 397-400 Geffrye St, London E2 8HZ **TICKETS:** The museum is FREE - no booking needed! However, if you would like to donate, there are donation card tap points within the museum, and also a lovely gift shop. **GETTING THERE:** [Plan your visit to the museum](https://museumofthehome.org.uk/plan-your-visit/) **EVENT WHATSAPP GROUP:** Please join the event WhatsApp group to help you find the group on the day. The link will be posted in the Event Comments 48 hours before the event, for those on the confirmed going list. *NB* *Joining this WhatsApp group will make your phone number visible to other members in the group.* **PLEASE READ:** LoMAZ events are run by volunteers. This event has an attendee limit as we prefer a smaller, friendlier group. If you RSVP but can no longer attend, please change your RSVP as soon as possible, **otherwise you will be marked as a 'no show'.** We remove members from the group who: * repeatedly sign up for events then 'no show'. * repeatedly change their RSVP to 'No'. * are on the event waitlist or have not RSVPd but turn up anyway. Please see the [About Us section](https://www.meetup.com/london-museums-a-z-for-30s-40s/) for more information about the group and how it works. **Thank you for your interest in the group & being part of LoMAZ.** 📸 Follow LoMAZ on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/londonmuseumsatoz/) Image credit: Camilla Gallop, LoMAZ Event Host (the host of this event owns the image)

Come along on Saturday 30th May for treasure hunt around the historic area of Southwark! The treasure hunts are a good way to get to know an area of London whilst meeting new people. **About the area** In around 200AD the Romans built a bridge between Londinium (now the City) and a group of islands directly opposite across the Thames. The area has been inhabited since and was called *'Suthringa Geweorche'* (which means Southern Defensive Work) by the Anglo Saxons, we know it today as Southwark. In the middle ages, the area became known as the place of 'entertainment', with theatres, bear & bull baiting pits, taverns and brothels. It also had notorious prisons like the Clink and Marshalsea. **How it works** Come along at 1:30pm and you will be randomly divided into teams of 3 people (or you can choose your own team beforehand). For fairness, any London Guides or Blue Badge Tour Guides won't be allowed to take part. Then each team will be given 15-20 written clues which you have to find the answers for. It's up to your team to work together to find the answers. The answers will be found on blue plaques or statues. You can answer them in any order and you will be provided with a map of the area to help you. It's not a race, so you can take your time getting to know Southwark. **Prizes** The team to get the most correct answers and then return to base (a local pub or cafe) will win book vouchers for Waterstones bookshops of £10 per person. If more than one team gets the top score, there will be a tie break question back at the pub. A £5 gift voucher per person will be given to each member of the team coming in second place and prizes will be given to each member of the team with the best team name. **Cost** Its £7 per person to take part (payable by cash or credit card on the day), apart from Full Members where it is free! **Become a Full Member** To become a Full Member (£14 a year), either: \- Pay cash at an event \- Pay via Bank Transfer \(TSB Bank plc\, Sort code: 77\-66\-65\, Account no: 00030809, Account name: Cultureseekers) \- Pay via credit card on the day or in advance \([https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI](https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI)) \- Pay via PayPal\, send a payment to general@cultureseekers\.org\, using the ‘Friends & Family’ option Benefits of becoming a Full Member [here...](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/531979527/) We will be marking the scores back at the pub at 4:30pm, so it should all be over by 5:00pm. Look out for the red & blue 'London Cultureseekers' group sign/flag. If you can't see us, please text. Look forward to seeing you there! Robert 07905 901 834 (prefer text) or email: [general@cultureseekers.org](http://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/)***

Come along on Sunday 31st May for a guided walk/hike, walking the route of one of London's lost rivers - the River Walbrook! **About the walk** We will walk the entire length of the river (about 2 miles), from its source to where it enters the River Thames. The Walbrook is unfortunately completely covered and is now part of sewer system since the 1860's. The walk is part hike/part guided, so starting at its source in Shoreditch, we will follow its route and on the way I will show you points of interest which would have been on the banks of the River Walbrook and tell you more about them. **The River Walbrook** The meaning comes from *'weala broc'* meaning '*brook of the foreigners'* which is what the invading Romans took to mean the native Britons. Despite being one of the shortest rivers to flow through London, the River Walbrook is counted as a major waterway, as it carved a route right through Roman Londinium. The exact location of the source of the river is of great dispute, although evidence suggests it is somewhere on Holywell Hill in Shoreditch. It was an important part of the Roman city providing fresh water to the Roman citizens. We will walk about 2 miles, so sensible shoes are advised. The terrain is pavements. The walk finishes near Cannon Street Station. **Payment** Full Members of the group will be free, everyone else the cost is £7 per person (payable by cash or credit card on the day). **Become a Full Member** To become a Full Member (£14 a year), either: \- Pay cash at an event \- Pay via Bank Transfer \(TSB Bank plc\, Sort code: 77\-66\-65\, Account no: 00030809\, Account name: Cultureseekers) \- Pay via credit card on the day or in advance \([https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI](https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI)) \- Pay via PayPal\, send a payment to [general@cultureseekers.org](mailto:general@cultureseekers.org), using the ‘Friends & Family’ option Benefits of becoming a Full Member [here...](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/531979527/) **Afterwards** After, we will head to the 'Sir John Hawkshaw pub' (a Wetherspoons pub) on the concourse of Cannon Street Station for a chat over a drink. If you can't see us outside the station, please text. Hope to see you there! Robert 07905 901 834 (prefer text) ***On the day, if you can’t make the trip, 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/22974682/531979527/](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/531979527/)*

WATERLOO…….FULL OF SURPRISES Brand new for 2025 A walk around Waterloo, how could that be interesting? I mean there’s the station obviously and a world famous theatre, then theres one of Londons great old markets and a unique cinema that was way ahead of its time. Still not interested ? how about the few streets that have become a conservation area as well as the site of a piece of circus history Well thats enough I’m giving away at the moment but rest assured theres so much history around Waterloo it will be a most unexpected and fascinating tour. For sure two hours plus and you will never get bored. Lets not forget Abba’s first record on their road to super stardom But heres some homework Whose famous kiss made the clock in the station world famous ??

Join a friendly, outdoor meetup for people who love the Korean language and culture Doesn’t matter if you’re a complete beginner, or already conversational. The meetup is a relaxed space to practice speaking Korean, meeting new people in rotated groups, and enjoying fun language activities together. There will also be an optional after-party for attendees (a nearby pub, café, restaurant etc.) Instagram/Tiktok: KStudyBang

Hello!, 你好!, नमस्ते!, こんにちは! ¡Hola!, مرحباً!, Olá!, Bonjour!, Привет!, , ہیلو!, ሰላም!, สวัสดี!, Xin chào!, ہائے!, Halo! 1. **Practice, exchange** and **learn ANY language.** 2. **Explore world's cultures** and **travel tips.** 3. **Your NAMETAG:** get it at our Welcome Desk, add: **Languages you speak \| Languages you're learning\.** **WHERE:** frontside **'Central Bar'** inside **Royal Festival Hall**. At High tables. Can't find us?: 078 76 800 100. **CULTURES:** share your favorite Instagram culture videos **TRAVEL**: show your favorite moments, past travels, or next adventures. Sharing is caring. **PEOPLE:** Mix of internationals and locals. All ages **LANGUAGES:** All proficiency levels welcome **WANNA DANCE?** There's a FREE Salsa event happening in parallel **HUNGRY?** Pop to World Cuisines Food Market behind Festival Hall **MOTTO:** Meet new people, connect and make friends FREE language learning. FREE culture exchange. FREE salsa. Just bring yourself and good vibes **Want to Co-Organise?** Volunteer co-organisers welcome to Help with Nametags. Ping us

*** **🎨✨ \*\*Join Us for an Unforgettable Art Adventure at the Wallace Collection!\*\* 🖼️🎉** Get ready for a spectacular day filled with culture, connection, and pure excitement! We’re hosting a vibrant social gathering to explore the magnificent \*\*Wallace Collection\*\* in London, and we want YOU to be part of it! 🏛️😄 This isn’t just a museum visit—it’s a chance to dive into a world of art, history, and great company! 🌟 **\*\*About the Wallace Collection\*\*:** Nestled in the heart of London at Hertford House, Manchester Square, the Wallace Collection is a hidden gem that’s free to visit and bursting with treasures! 🏰💎 This world-class museum houses an extraordinary collection of fine and decorative arts, amassed by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace in the 18th and 19th centuries. From jaw-dropping paintings by masters like \*\*Rembrandt\*\*, \*\*Titian\*\*, and \*\*Fragonard\*\* (including the iconic \*The Swing\*) to exquisite French furniture, glittering porcelain, and a jaw-dropping armory of medieval and Renaissance weapons, there’s something to captivate everyone! 🗡️🖌️ The grand rooms of Hertford House itself are a masterpiece, offering a glimpse into aristocratic life with their opulent interiors. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just love a good story, the Wallace Collection’s intimate yet dazzling galleries will leave you inspired! **😍** **\- \*\*What’s Happening\*\*:** **\- 🕑 \*\*3:00 PM \- Meet & Mingle\*\*: We’ll gather just inside the museum’s entrance for a lively 15\-minute meet\-up\. Say hello\, make new friends\, and get pumped for the adventure ahead\! 🤝😊** **\- 🖌️ \*\*3:15 PM \- Explore the Collection\*\*: Wander through the museum’s stunning galleries at your own pace\. Marvel at sparkling chandeliers\, intricate Sèvres porcelain\, and paintings that tell tales of love\, war\, and beauty\. Don’t miss the Great Gallery or the quirky armory displays\! 🎨🔍** **\- 🕔 \*\*4:45 PM \- Reconvening\*\*: We’ll regroup outside the museum to share our favorite discoveries and soak up the post\-art buzz\. 🗣️✨** **\- 🚶‍♀️ \*\*5 PM \- Stroll to Soho\*\*: Together\, we’ll take a scenic walk to vibrant Soho\, heading to \*\*Waxy O’Connor’s\*\* \(14\-16 Rupert St\, London W1D 6DD\)\. This legendary Irish pub\, with its cozy nooks and lively atmosphere\, is the perfect spot for drinks\, laughs\, and more bonding\! 🍻🎶** **\*\*Why You’ll Love It\*\*:** Immerse yourself in a treasure trove of art and history, connect with fellow culture enthusiasts, and cap it off with a fun evening in one of London’s liveliest spots! Whether you’re geeking out over rococo furniture or just here for the vibes, this day will be packed with inspiration and joy. 😍🎈 **Bring your curiosity, your smile, and let’s make this a dazzling day of art, history, and new friendships! 🌟🎉 #WallaceCollectionAdventure #ArtAndSoul** \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Some Tips:** 1. **Let’s all commit to updating our RSVPs if plans change**—it helps us plan better and ensures great attendance for everyone. If you RSVP “yes” but don’t attend and don’t update your RSVP, you may be removed from the group to keep things fair. No stress, though—you can rejoin for a small £10 fee! Just send me a DM, and I’ll share the PayPal details to get you back in. 2. **Turn Up on Time at the start!** This helps the quality of the event and helps you. 3. If you are struggling with the **app**, use the web page instead, that's what I use. 4. **Attendee Numbers & Guest Lists:** We have this event listed at least on two groups and the guest list includes attendees from all. You can see the list of attendees here: [https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/](https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/) [https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/](https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/) [https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife](https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife) 5. Join our **social media**: **Instagram**: [https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/](https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/) **X:** https://x.com/CityZenLondon 6. **Our WhatsApp group:** [See private comment in the comments section below]. We have a few rules including no ads, no DMs unless recipient is in the "Direct Messaging List" or risk removal and £10 rejoin fee. 7. **Support Our Amazing London Event Hosts! 🙌** Our incredible crew of hosts is the heartbeat of London’s buzzing meetup scene, bringing people together for unforgettable experiences that spark connection, growth, and fun! 🌟 From museum adventures to flirty dating mixers, these rockstar hosts pour their energy, time, and passion into creating events that level up your social and communication skills. But hosting isn’t easy—it takes resources, effort, and heart. 💖 Please consider supporting our hosts with a donation to keep the good vibes flowing and help us make London the ultimate social hub! 🚀 Below, meet our hosts for this event and see how you can chip in to fuel their amazing work. **Zen & The Meetup Groups** *The Visionary Social Connector* Zen, our AI guru with 25 years in the game, founded these meetups to transform his own social skills and now helps others do the same. From sparking in-person networking to coordinating epic events, Zen’s passion for connection is unstoppable. Help him keep the momentum going! Support Zen: Donate to cover event planning tools, venue bookings, and more. **[Donation Link](https://paypal.me/Zenswalks)** \*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Liability Waiver & Media Consent** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: **Organiser Identity** – The organiser operates under the community name **“ZEN”**, which is used as an alias for privacy and branding purposes. By joining, you understand that “ZEN” refers to the organiser and/or designated hosts of this event. **Assumption of Risk** – You understand and accept that participation in any social, recreational, or group activity involves inherent risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents. You voluntarily choose to attend at your own sole risk. **Personal Responsibility** – You are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and personal belongings at all times. It is your responsibility to exercise good judgment, act responsibly, and take appropriate precautions before, during, and after the event. **No Organiser Liability** – The organiser, hosts, volunteers, and the community known as **ZEN** accept no responsibility and shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage, accident, theft, or any other issue that may arise as a result of your participation. **Guests** – If you bring guests, you accept full responsibility for their conduct, safety, and understanding of this disclaimer. **Independent Event** – This event may be held in conjunction with other social or non-singles meetup groups. ZEN is not responsible for the actions, behaviour, or arrangements of any third parties. **Media Consent** – By attending this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded. 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Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.

June meetup at the Library. We’ll play games and have casual conversation in Japanese and in English. All levels of Japanese ability, from non-speaker to native, are welcome. After the meetup we will go out to eat at a local restaurant.

Let’s meet and share discussion of the James Baldwin short story collection, Going to Meet The Man.