Social and Cultural Outings

We have reserved the Chicester Room in ther pub for us . Please ask for Philosophy cafe at the door and they will direct you . We like to break into small groups and have a healthy discussion about life , philosophy and ideas . We break out into groups of 6 to discuss three questions over 45min to 1 hour; and then spend another 45min feeding back into the main group. The three topics are chosen on the day by vote, and largely derived from suggestions on the day. We welcome new ideas , so please come up with suggestions or topics that you want to talk about . There is no specific topic list and you do not need to read or know anything particular about philosophy . The official time is 7-9: 30 pm , but we usually go into a pub mode after 9:30 pm and continue our discusssions.

This is a new walk., and is part 2 of our churches walk. Come with me on an enjoyable walk exploring 5 London churches starting at St. Mary-Le- Bow and ending up at St.Nicholas Cole Abbey. We will meet at Sir John Hawkshaw which is on Cannon Street Station at 10.45 am, for a hot drink, and at 11.15 am to start our walk. We will walk to St. Mary- Le Bow, and then to St. Barthlomew the Great The Priory Church of St Bartholomew the Great, sometimes abbreviated to Barts the Great, is a mediaeval church in the Church of England's Diocese of London located in Smithfield within the City of London. The building was founded as an Augustinian priory in 1123. {as above image} The walk will end at St.Nicolas Cole Abbey. St Nicholas Cole Abbey is a church in the City of London located on what is now Queen Victoria Street. Recorded from the twelfth century, the church was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666 and rebuilt by the office of Sir Christopher Wren. We will then go back to Cannon Street where we started and have a drink at Sir John Hawkshaw. If you have a knee problem or walk slow this walk is not for you. Please bring a packed lunch with you. £7 meet up fee on arrival {please have the right change} If you need any more info, ring or text Paul on 07530 675739 {this is not a smart phone}.

We play from 7:45PM to 9:45PM - 4 Courts - Beginners are most welcome. We play with Yonex Mavis 300 plastics - not feathers For clothing, any combination of T-shirts, shorts, tracksuits etc. Recommend you bring a large bottle of water Although we start at 7:45pm, some people arrive at any time up to 8.30. Our numbers vary from week to week, but we average to around 23 - which works very well. Payment of £7 after you have returned home, and by transfer to bank account (details masked) Directions - proceed to Ashburton Library on Shirley Road, and go down the private road to the right of the Library. And you will find on your left an entrance to the building that is marked Sports Centre/Reception. Free car parking is available adjacent to the Sports Centre, and more spaces if you continue along the private road. Transport options - Rail to East Croydon Station, and then 367 Bus. Alternatively Tram to Blackhorse Lane or Woodside Tram stops On entry go to the far end, turn right through the door marked Sports Hall and continue through the lobby and to the four Badminton Courts. You are most welcome to come along as a beginner You need to wear indoor (ideally badminton or squash) NON MARKING sports shoes - so that you do not leave (black) scuff marks on the floor We are an informal, social group and are not covered by any insurance. We are not responsible for any injuries or loss occurred as a result of your participation. Please arrange your own insurance if you would like to be covered. You are advised to always (and please do!) warm up before playing. RSVPs please

**Monday Evening Chanting Circle \| 6:30–8:00pm** Start the week by unwinding your body and mind through voice and sound. This weekly chanting class is a relaxed, welcoming space to come together after work and reset through simple, shared vocal practice. We use a mix of: * Sanskrit mantras * Rainbow songs * Shamanic chants * Gentle voicework Chanting is a form of meditation that works through rhythm, breath, and repetition. You don’t need any musical experience and you don’t need to sing “well.” The voice is used as a natural tool for grounding and release, not performance. Practising regularly can help: * Settle the nervous system after a busy day * Quiet mental over-activity * Release tension held in the body * Improve breathing and vocal ease Chanting in a group makes the practice easier and more enjoyable. The shared sound helps people relax more quickly and feel supported, even if they’re new to using their voice. Over time, regular group chanting can build a sense of stability, clarity, and connection. Each session includes time to arrive, chant together, and rest in stillness at the end, so you leave feeling calmer and more centred than when you arrived. Come as you are. No experience needed. === FOR THE BEST PRICE GO TO https://www.tickettailor.com/events/rebirthandawaken CASH on the night - please message Gayatri 07505014729 to reserve place. Note that if you can't come that you need to send a text message 24 hrs in advance or payment will still need to be made Om Shanti, Gayatri

Move and Motivate: Move Your Body, Motivate Your Mind Move and Motivate is a National Lottery funded project, offering **free**, inclusive movement and wellbeing sessions that support physical health, mental wellbeing and social connection. These sessions are open to all fitness levels, no prior experience needed. ⸻ 🕒 What to Expect 12:30 – 13:45 • Light stretches • Free weight training • Suitable for all abilities • Reflective practice • 30-minute break with refreshments provided 14:15-15:30 • Badminton session • Beginners and experienced players welcome ⸻ 📅 Session Dates • 26th January • 23rd February • 9th March • 23rd March • 6th April • 20th April • 11th May • 25th May • 15th June • 29th June • 13th July • 27th July ⸻ ✅ Good to Know ✔️ Free to attend ✔️ All equipment provided ✔️ Come for the full session or just one part ✔️ Friendly, supportive environment

Welcome to our 50-50 Trivia Quiz and afternoon social get-together. **Bring a pen please.** 30 interesting tricky questions, each with two answers to choose from. (No sport or maths). Is the answer obvious or not? I set the quiz so expect surprises. Check photos below or similar events for previous question sheets. When you go on walks, you see and learn things. With this Trivia Quiz, you'll definitely be learning a bit more! 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. Prizes of interesting flavour chocolate and also for the funniest team name chosen by Sue, my glamorous assistant. Hosted on Mondays at various central London Wetherspoons. Event time is from 2-4pm, which allows plenty of time to get away for transport. Twenty five minutes for the quiz, five for marking up, and socialising time for the remainder period. There is a small charge of £5 cash/card to cover prize and Meetup costs. This is a great way to make new friends or catch up with old ones. See you there! Contact number on the day is 07422334411 if your transport is delayed. Please leave your name if texting. **Don’t forget to cancel via the “Edit RSVP” button if you can’t make it. Please do this well in advance when you know, so it allows good notice for someone else to take your place, and minimizes waiting time for non-attendees.** **Your consideration is greatly appreciated.**

Have you ever wanted to be immersed within either the city or nature in the form of a walk and socialise at the same time? If so, this may be the right walk for you. Welcome to another one of the WALK events where you have the opportunity to explore all the scenic routes I’ll execute whether there’s nature within, whether we get immersed within the city and feel great about yourself. 
With this particular walk, we will be walking down regents canal. Regents Canal is quite the unique shortcut from Mile End to Angel that offers the views of many houseboats, cafes and much more be it on the canal or besides it. After this walk, we’ll be heading to a german bakery if you wish. It’s called ‘Zeit fűr brot’ meaning ‘Time for bread’. This bakery started out in 2009 where they philosophised that to experience the bread culture, you got to not only taste it but hear it and smell it. Check them out at https://zeitfuerbrot.co.uk My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy 
Starting point: Mile End Station
Ending point: Angel
Walking length: 3.6 miles
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes +
Required clothing: Smart casual, comfortable shoes and a jacket in case it gets cold
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. 
WHAT - Walk down Regents canal
WHERE - Regents canal
WHEN - 3pm - 6pm
MEETING POINT - Outside Mile End station
NEAREST STATION - Mile End station
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk.
 Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

Have you ever wondered what mysteries lie out there outside the earth? If so, this may be the right event for you. Welcome to the London Society’s first stargazing event where all of this is possible. thanks to ‘The Baker Street Irregular Astronomers’, we’ll be able to gaze at the mysteries through their telescopes pin pointed at their discoveries made. With this particular event and during the evening, we should be able to gaze at the 6 planet alignment (Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus & Neptune), The waxing gibbous moon which will not only be positioned near thee beehive cluster but will also pass close to the bright star ‘Regulus’ & lastly is the sight of the blood red moon. Here is the itinerary for the evening: 6pm - 6:15pm: Await the members 6:15pm - 6:45pm: Depart to the destination 6:45pm onwards: Gaze at the mysteries through the telescopes and the naked eye. I don’t accept donations for this event as this is completely free rather if you do enjoy this event, feel free to give the group who provided their telescopes a follow on Facebook at https://m.facebook.com/groups/132196206819659/?locale=en_GB and one day, you might go on your own accord or gain knowledge on outer space. WHAT - STARGAZING
WHERE TO MEET - Outside Camden Town Station
WHEN - 6pm - 9pm
NEAREST STATION - Camden Town station
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all
 Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

Hello lovely people! Another round for our beloved Bakery Crawl! This time, we’ll also explore some **charming hidden spots** and even visit an **art gallery** 🎨✨ Start planning your diet and workouts carefully because this is going to be a massive cheat day! :D We’ll be crawling through some of the best, most delightful, and tastiest bakeries in London. 🥐 **1\. Chestnut Bakery – Belgravia \-** **From 1:30pm to 2:30pm – then we’ll begin the crawl!** 📍 Address: 17–21 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9RP [https://maps.app.goo.gl/jk1m2qyXQZTW1irP9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/jk1m2qyXQZTW1irP9) **Highlights:** Clay oven flatbreads, pistachio croissants, tahini cookies, and seasonal bakes in a sleek, modern bakery.. **Walking time to Poilâne:** \~2 minutes / 150 meters *** 🥖 **2\. Poilâne Bakery – Belgravia** 📍 Address: 46 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9PA [https://maps.app.goo.gl/NHSUQpfQWNS4vCBs8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/NHSUQpfQWNS4vCBs8) **Highlights:** Iconic Parisian bakery known for its rustic sourdough, buttery apple turnovers, and classic French biscuits. **Walking time to Eccleston Yards:** \~5 minutes / 350 meters *** 📷 **3\. Eccleston Yards – Belgravia** 📍 Address: Eccleston Yards, SW1W 9AZ [https://maps.app.goo.gl/orpp61xjfKFhtMsi7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/orpp61xjfKFhtMsi7) **Highlights:** Hidden courtyard with boutiques, art installations, Chill atmosphere with outdoor seating and photo spots. **Walking time to Saatchi Gallery:** \~12 minutes / 950 meters *** 🖼 **4\. Saatchi Gallery – Duke of York Square\, Chelsea** 📍 Address: Duke of York's HQ, King’s Rd, SW3 4RY [https://maps.app.goo.gl/mxMN418jTiNuUuzP9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/mxMN418jTiNuUuzP9) **Highlights:** Contemporary art gallery with free entry at the Ground Floor only (Other exhibitions require a ticket. The Group will only do the free floor but feel free to get your ticket, visit it and then come to join us later. Let the Host know) **Walking time to Bread Ahead:** \~6 minutes / 500 meters *** 🍩 **5\. Bread Ahead Bakery – Pavilion Road** 📍 Address: 249 Pavilion Road, SW1X 0BP [https://maps.app.goo.gl/EpDTkeLq5r6NhbDq6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/EpDTkeLq5r6NhbDq6) · **Highlights:** Famed for pillowy doughnuts (try the vanilla or honeycomb custard!), sourdough pizza slices, and top-notch coffee. Spacious terrace and takeaway friendly. AFTER THAT? We'll go for a coffee or a drink! ❌This is the Original Bakery Crawl, carried out since May 2025 with free attendance and no donations required. It is organised by LIFE LONDON GROUP. See you soon! ❌ Please Bring your ID as some Venues in London might request it at the entrance. Please Mind your social behaviour and personal belongings, the organiser accepts no liability. Thank you :)

Hi all, cost & info below, A fun, fascinating 3 mile, 4.5mile or 6 mile option walk. People ask what our group is all about. I always say that this is the walk that has it all. It is is such a fabulous walk. The oldest surviving terraced houses in London from the 1600s, the magnificent eccentric man who burrowed under his home for 40 years, 30 ft deep and spalling out towards other roads and houses nearby! We also have a jaw dropper of a secret gem for the 4.5 & 6 mile walkers! Wonderful secret gardens, a place that became part of China, murals, a cake shop that created and designed Meghan and Harry's wedding cake with queues down the road, a wonderful, delightful African market, a woodland oasis in the middle of a town (pictured), a famous Victorian music hall singer, some wonderful Georgian squares and gorgeous Victorian shops, a walk through the beautiful London fields, the nearby area of Broadway Market (Market operates on Saturdays), a wonderful walk along Regents Canal with sharks in the water! We will be stopping for about 25 minutes about halfway through the walk with a choice of cafe and nearby eating places. Maybe visit the beautiful garden pictured above for drinks, snacks & toilets near Dalston Junction station. It's outside so maybe you will require warm clothing or simply visit another place nearby for the break. **WHERE TO MEET** **(Please allow 15 minutes to arrive before departure time)** Please meet outside the front Of Haggerston Overground Station (Please give lots of time to arrive as overground trains are not as frequent) Haggerston Overground Station (Highbury & Islington - Victoria Line) or (Whitechapel - District or Hammersmith and City) are the nearest mainline stations for connection routes. **COST** £10 cash/card payment by simply turning up on the day. There is no charge to RSVP beforehand on the Meetup event. Walks are normally 90% full before the day, so an early RSVP is advisable to avoid disappointment. **AFTER SOCIAL DRINKS/MEAL (For attendees of the walk only sorry)** Mother Kelly's Bethnal Green Taproom, 251 Paradise Row, London E2 9LE for 20 persons, selection of cheese boards, maet boards, allowed to order Pizza or Burgers from next door's restaurants too. 1 Railway Arch ∙ 22 Taps ∙ Craft Drinks ∙ 6 Huge Fridges **OTHER INFORMATION** Even though the meetup group will not be going there as a whole, there is an additional option at the end of the walk is to visit the strange Victorian but curious small museum by the Regents Canal 'The Victor Wynd Museum of Curiosity' It houses old, real shrunken heads, a human skeleton lying in a coffin, Elvis Presley's hair, Amy Winehouse and Kylie Minogue's poo (I said it was strange!), Dodo bones, two-headed kittens, the modern-day dandy about town 'Sebastian Horsley' who was nailed to a religious cross! It has a bar, cocktails (even 'absinthe' Vincent Van Gogh's choice of drink) and food. In darkened wonderful Victorian surroundings, busy at weekends. Then come and meet us in the pub after and let us know what you thought! It truely is a remarkable musuem **WALKING OPTIONS** 3 mile walk option - Starts at Haggerston Station and ends at Dalston Junction Overground Station, estimated end time 3.45pm (Please note no cake shop, music hall singer, gorgeous Victorian shops, London fields, Broadway Market or Regents Canal on this earlier end option) 4.5 mile walk option - Starts at Starts at Haggerston Station and ends at London Fields Overground Station, estimated end time 4.45pm (Please note no Broadway Market or Regents Canal on this earlier end option) 6 mile walk option - Starts at Haggerston Station and ends at Bethnal Green Underground Station **ABOUT OUR LONDON WALKS** It is a 15-year fascinating journey together to explore the whole of beautiful, enchanting Secret London. The only walking group in the World offering this unique experience! The individual walks have been created from an original route several miles in length (usually on average about 50 miles) where we have checked every nook and cranny, every hidden alleyway, lane, lost cobbled path, cul de sac, avenue, road or street in that area for you! It is then shortened, to give back to you a magical walk with all the best bits of 'Lovely London', voted the best City in the World for the 10th year running! What is given back to you is the most scenic, healthy walk (usually 3-6 miles in length) with some of the walks containing hidden cobbled lanes, lost shops, secret gems, areas lost in time, wonderful views, idyllic Instagram photo shots and all sorts! Now and then some brief local info is mentioned or something of historical importance along the way. You will have plenty of time to chat and meet new friends whilst walking the amazing lost areas of London! So we welcome you to the colourful highlights of this fascinating City of London with simply wonderful things to see! **TERMS AND CONDITIONS** PLEASE ensure ARRIVAL at least 15 minutes BEFORE the start of the walk, sorry no latecomers are accepted for whatever reason. Members attend the unique walks from our different meetup groups. IF LATE, SORRY WE ARE UNABLE TO RECEIVE CALLS OR ANSWER EMAILS AS WELCOMING MEMBERS, LEADING THE WALK, AND CONCENTRATING ON THE SAFETY OF THE GROUP. PLEASE DO NOT BE LATE, YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO CATCH THE GROUP UP, PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT. Part Tour - Medium pace walk from 'Visit England' Award-Winning Guide and our group featured in the National Press! Please Note: Some events, being a large attended meetup group will be an organised walk only, but members are very welcome to organise their own get-togethers after the event. You are required to be fit and healthy with appropriate footwear & clothing, responsible for meeting at the correct location, own safety and to not lose the group by viewing the organiser/making the organiser aware as much as possible, or follow/not lose sight of the person(s) from the same walk in front. We advise carrying water and some snacks. The organiser is also not responsible for any circumstances that may affect the group or personally such as personal accidents, rail information, engineering works, cancellations, rail strikes or delays, heavy traffic, tours affected, weather, walk paths or routes closed, postcodes for car parks or for when we arrive back at the station, or anything else not mentioned! By joining the event you agree to all the terms and conditions. No Dogs allowed sorry We really look forward to welcoming you on the walks/tours for a wonderful, great, fun day!

The Queens Pub in Crouch End! You're invited to join us for an evening of great company, and movie talk at our upcoming Pub Social in the heart of Crouch End. It's an opportunity to unwind and mingle with fellow members of the North London Film Club. Please RSVP to ensure we have an idea of numbers attending. I'll book tables for the evening under David. Feel free to bring friends or anyone interested in joining the group. Make sure to update the RSVP if you can’t make it. That’s very helpful! How to find us: We usually get the three high stool tables along the bar that can be seen in the photo. Come along and be a part of the fun! See you there! Join our Whatsapp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/CqLyvsscZ8QCCtHAy9LrwI The link will take you to a waiting room where you write your Meetup username. Once verified, you’ll receive the link to the main WhatsApp group. Date: 27th of February! Time: 7pm until late! Location: The Queens! Address: 26 Broadway Parade, London N8 9DE

**On Sunday 1st March, we're hugely excited to be hosting our latest FREE Board Games Afternoon, exclusively for 20s and 30s.** Yep, that's right - we're back and as always, we've booked out a big private space in central London and we’ve got a fantastic collection of some of the most popular games that you’ll be able to choose from. From classics like Exploding Kittens and Codenames, social deduction games like Chameleon and Avalon, to party games like Dixit and Wavelength, you’re sure to find something you’ll love. On top of this, you're also welcome to bring your own games that you love or have been excited to play with a group, providing they are short, easy to learn and accessible games. Best of all, over the course of the afternoon, you'll be able to mix around, meet lots of other 20s and 30s whilst playing a range of different games. So if you're looking to play some games, meet new people, and have a laugh then we'd love to have you join us for this. **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **WHERE/WHEN** Venue - Thirsty Bear, 62 Stamford St, Waterloo, London SE1 9LX. Closest Tube stations: Southwark (5 min walk), Waterloo (10 mins walk) Start Time - 4:00pm Finish time: 8:00pm \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- **JOIN THE COMMUNITY** Set up in November 2021, the project was set up to help Londoners in their 20s and 30s meet, connect and hopefully build lifelong friendships. To help make this happen, we also host all kinds of events from free social walks, games evenings, day trips, social events, activity nights to picnics. To learn more about our community, follow us on social media or buy us a coffee, please follow one of the links below. **Website - [https://friendship-project.co.uk](https://friendship-project.co.uk/)** **Instagram - [https://www.instagram.com/great.friendship/](https://www.instagram.com/great.friendship/)**

Welcome! 😊 You can join us for a **unique experience** where you'll be allocated to a gathering/group **based on your interests** (more details on this below!). Come unwind, meet new people, and enjoy some drinks in a relaxed setting. Whether you're looking to make new connections or simply unwind after a long week, this event is perfect for you. **Here's how it works...** ✨ 1. **IMPORTANT:** To attend and be matched with a gathering, answer our quick, personality & interests quiz on [OkGather.com](https://OkGather.com) to become a member (*includes gatherings every week - you must be a member to attend*) 💭 🪄 2. We carefully match you with a gathering of amazing people 🫂 📍 3. We book the table for around 10 people in your gathering at a great venue & let you know **your** **venue** **& table details** (venues will be near the station mentioned in location section) 🥂 🎉 4. All you have to do is show up and have a great time! 🥳 If you have any questions, please email info@okgather .com It's the perfect way to meet people with similar interests and expand your network/social circle (while having a lot of fun!). Save your seat now at [OkGather.com](https://OkGather.com)

Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!

**History** [Slate Run Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/slate-run/), located south of Canal Winchester in Pickaway County, has roots tracing back to the early planning efforts of the Columbus and Franklin County Metropolitan Park District. In 1963, Metro Parks officials identified the land along Slate Run as having strong potential for a large metropolitan park due to its expansive acreage, diverse habitats, and natural features like the stream that gave the area its name. The largest stream in the vicinity, Slate Run, flows south to northwest through a ridge, providing a logical basis for the park's designation. Between 1964 and 1968, Metro Parks acquired approximately 1,662 acres through multiple parcels, including a key 212-acre farmstead that had been continuously operated since 1805. This acquisition phase positioned Slate Run as a future major addition to the system, following the openings of other parks like Sharon Woods in 1968 and Highbanks in 1973. The park officially opened to the public in 1981, marking it as the sixth Metro Park in the district and, at the time, the largest with its substantial land holdings. From the outset, Metro Parks envisioned incorporating a living historical farm to educate visitors about 19th-century Ohio agriculture. The focal 212-acre parcel, purchased from the White family heirs in 1964, included historic structures that made it ideal for this purpose. The park's development preserved natural areas such as grasslands, wetlands, meadows, and forests while integrating interpretive elements. Upon opening, Slate Run quickly became a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Central to the park's identity is the Slate Run Living Historical Farm, which interprets life on a typical Ohio farm in the 1880s. The gothic revival farmhouse on the site was constructed in 1856 by owner Isaac Fridley and later restored by Metro Parks for historical accuracy. Visitors can explore interiors like the living room, parlor, and kitchen, where interpreters demonstrate period activities. The multi-bay barn, built in 1881 by Samuel Oman (the fourth owner), was meticulously restored with help from Amish carpenters. Heirloom animals such as Percheron horses, pigs, geese, and turkeys inhabit the farm, enhancing the immersive experience. The historical farmstead reflects a long lineage of ownership and agricultural use dating back to the early 19th century. Continuous farming on the land since 1805 made the site authentic for recreating late-19th-century practices, including grain harvesting and animal husbandry. Metro Parks focused on authenticity by restoring original buildings and introducing period-appropriate methods, such as horse-powered threshing machines from the late 1880s. The farm operates with volunteers and staff in period attire to portray daily rural life. This educational component has drawn school groups and families for decades. Today, Slate Run Metro Park spans about 1,705 acres and attracts roughly 250,000 visitors annually for its blend of natural preservation and historical interpretation. The park maintains diverse habitats supporting wildlife like nesting sandhill cranes and reintroduced northern bobwhite quail. Trails and open spaces offer opportunities for hiking and observation amid the preserved landscapes. The Living Historical Farm remains a crown jewel, continuing to teach about Ohio's agricultural heritage. Ongoing programs and restorations ensure the site's relevance for future generations. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Slate Run](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/SLR-parkmap@2x.gif). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Five Oaks, Sugar Maple, Covered Bridge, Shagbark, and Lake Trails. This will be around 4.5 to 5 miles. While Slate Run is moderately strenuous in a few places, it's generally a good place to hike and doesn't seem to wear people out. Some spots on the hike are unshaded, though, so be prepared for the possibility of some sun. I find Slate Run to be very underappreciated for the quality of its hiking. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet at the [Shady Grove Picnic Area](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B045'30.1%22N+82%C2%B050'13.2%22W/@39.758347,-82.83701,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.758347!4d-82.83701?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). You can use the map pin I've provided here; it's accurate. There's a latrine at Shady Grove, but there is no running water (no water fountains). We will pass a water fountain when we get to the Buzzard's Roost Picnic Area, although I can't guarantee this fountain won't be off for the winter. I'd recommend bringing some water just in case, at least for after the hike. I'd also recommend [hiking shoes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D972KN3W) for this park. **After the Hike** Once we're finished at Slate Run, we'll head over to [Loose Rail Brewing](https://looserailbrewing.com/) for [drinks](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-drink-menu) and [food](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-food-menu). The brewery's actual address is [37 W Waterloo St, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/37+W+Waterloo+St,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/@39.8432511,-82.8071032,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88387be3ac496d83:0x23e8ee9d9391dd6b!8m2!3d39.8432511!4d-82.8071032!16s%2Fg%2F11cp8n8x1j?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's about 10-12 minutes from Slate Run. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

**Comedy Night + Open Mic + Freestyle**: We've hired a professional comedian to warm the group up for our open mic session. Members have been making me laugh for years and we've tossed around the idea of a comedy night / open mic. Well, It's time to step up and crack me up. We'll start with Tristan Shae and a couple of his friends. Tristan is an alternative comic from Columbus, Ohio. A counselor by day, Tristan explores how comedy can improve mental health by telling jokes and stories that muse on how absurd life can be from squeaky clean topics to not so clean ones. Tristan produces the variety show Cheaper Than Therapy, hosts the weekly Problem Child Alt Comedy Open Mic at The Attic, and can be found engaging in all sorts of silliness around the city from stand up shows at The Nest Theater, The Attic, or The Funny Bone, to improv and sketch shows with various groups at various venues such as The Hashtag Comedy Club. **On Freestyle night** \- just bring a bottle to share\. There is NO formal wine tasting like on other weeks\. Door charge is $10 \(cash or Venmo only please\)\. We may have some left over wines to clear out\! Glasses are provided\. Take Care\. See you there\. **Parking**: There are several public parking lots near the Alive614 hall. Please be careful to NOT park in private parking lots. They do tow. Check Google maps to scope out your space. Anyone who is early could easily find a parking space on the street nearby. I am told that the Chase parking lot is safe after hours. **Glasses**: …will be provided. Please note that after the wine tasting, the EMPTY glasses need to be returned to the boxes at the service table. Please do not make me hunt down your empty glass. Please be gentle, our glasses are fragile. Uh, they are made of glass! **Food**: You are welcome to bring a snack to share. It is not required. Most people do though. If no one brings anything, there will be nothing. **Code of Conduct**: Though mostly understood, it’s still worth mentioning. We don’t have rules per se, but we highly discourage the following topics of discussion because they are likely to incite anti-social responses - Sex, Politics, Religion. Please don’t mistake this as an attempt to limit your free speech rights but rather a guide to a place and time for appropriate discussions. **After the lights go out**: After the last sip of wine, when we clean up and turn the lights out, if you still haven’t had enough of us, it is typical for a group to get together and go to a local eatery for food and/or drinks or coffee. Again, We look forward to meeting new members and reuniting with old friends. Sincerely, ***Paul Uttermohlen***, **Red 1 Realty** *Your Hilliard Wine Club Host*

**Summary** Celebrate America's 250th year and the [Columbus Clippers'](https://www.milb.com/columbus) 50th season by watching [Franklin County's](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbus_Clippers) best team play the [best game in the world](https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/babe_ruth_140116) at [one of the ten best](https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/minors/2025/03/26/huntington-park-voted-top-10-minor-league-ballparks-usa-today-10best-awards/82656048007/) baseball stadiums in the United States in their 2026 home Saturday opener! The first pitch is scheduled for 4:05 p.m. The gates always open an hour before the scheduled first pitch. I'm usually at the ballpark a half an hour before the scheduled first pitch. Clippers' games usually last around two and a half hours. Being a few minutes early will help us secure good seats. **Parking** I personally always like to park in the [McConnell Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/McConnell+Garage/@39.9685114,-83.0103938,17z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388f24145462d1:0x6238c0f0c851ab70!8m2!3d39.9692957!4d-83.0081175!16s%2Fg%2F1jkw6y27y?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExNi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). If nothing else is going on in the area, this should be $7. However, I've also seen it be as high as $22. I can't say for certain what it will be for this game, but once I know, I will post in the comments. Alternately, there are other lots in the area you can try which will probably be a few dollars cheaper. [Here is a map](https://img.mlbstatic.com/milb-images/image/upload/q_auto/milb/ernng44ya2xkr4wbheql) of all the garages and lots surrounding the stadium. Keep in mind that many of these are outdoor lots and your car will be out in the elements. If you decide to look for a different lot, I would mildly recommend either the Buggyworks Lot or the Broadbelt Lot, but I have never parked in either of these myself. Although it won't apply for this game, keep in mind that street parking is also free citywide in Columbus on [Sundays and holidays](https://www.columbus.gov/files/sharedassets/city/v/1/public-service/right-of-way-permit/on-street-parking-out-of-service-policy-and-procedure-final-8.15.2022-signed.pdf). **Where We'll Be** Here is a [map of the ballpark](https://img.mlbstatic.com/milb-images/image/upload/milb/qkqohbqjgtx5uwo6zkgn.pdf). We'll be sitting on Level 3 of the [Left Field Building](https://www.milb.com/columbus/ballpark/huntington-park) (aka the "AEP Power Pavilion"), which features a 110 foot bar with six open patios overlooking the field. This area is covered and will be out of any sun or rain that may transpire. If you enter the park through the Center Field Entrance (which is at the intersection of Nationwide Blvd. and Neil Ave.), there will be a door to your immediate right after you enter that leads to a staircase up into the Tower. This door is not well-marked, and if you've never been to Huntington Park before, you may wonder if you're actually allowed to go in and up the stairs. Yes, you are. We'll be on the Tower's "Level 3". I have uploaded to the Photos section of this event page, below, a picture of the sign you want look for after you ascend the stairs, so you'll know you're on the correct floor. **Tickets** Do not buy your tickets ahead of time. They will literally be twice as expensive if you buy them on Ticketmaster. Instead, go to the ticket window near the Center Field Entrance. Buy a *Standing Room Only* ticket (don't worry, you won't be standing), which will cost you a flat $8 with no other taxes or fees. These tickets never sell out, and this is the cheapest way to get into the park. **Carry-Ins** Per the team's [website](https://www.milb.com/columbus/ballpark/a-z-guide): "Soft-sided coolers are permitted in the general seating area [which is where we'll be], but not hard-sided coolers; also no alcohol, glass bottles, or cans will be permitted. SMALL bags or backpacks of food items and beverages in plastic bottles are ok. Reusable water bottles are permitted, but must be empty upon arrival. Diaper bags are allowed." I always bring a disposable plastic bottle of water and refill it as I need at the park. Bottled water at the game is something like 4 or 5 dollars. So if you want a bottle of water, I recommend bringing your own bottle instead of buying it at the park. **Food & Drink** The area we'll be in has burgers, hot dogs, salads, soft pretzels, ice cream, and other sorts of things you would expect at a baseball game. I've posted pics of the menu in the Photos section, below. The burger and fries are $14 plus tax, and they're not bad. (This is what I usually get.) The beer is *really* overpriced. It's like $9, or $20 for a pitcher. If there's some people to help me drink it, though, I'll buy a pitcher of Michelob Ultra. While we'll be on the penultimate floor of the Tower, the top floor (which has a great view, but is fully exposed to the elements) has a [Dirty Frank's](https://dirtyfranks.com/) hot dog stand. I've never gotten anything from there, though I've been told it's good. The Donatos pizza stand is also a very short walk away from where we'll be. I love Donatos, but the pizza is so expensive at the ballpark. It's like $9 for a personal-sized pepperoni. It is good, though. **Peroration** Let's (watch them) play ball!

We'll play board games at the [Land-Grant Brewing Company](https://landgrantbrewing.com/). The brewery has multiple [food trucks](https://landgrantbrewing.com/food/) on Sundays, including [Ray Ray's Hog Pit](https://rayrayshogpit.com/franklinton), [Buck City Sammies](https://www.buckcitysammies.com/menu), and [Hai Poké](https://www.haipokefoodtruck.com/). The brewery also has (passable) drip coffee, free water, and Jeni's ice cream. You can also walk over to the [Land Grant Extension](https://callinyourbluffcoffee.com/) for "real" coffee. (You may have to stand in line, though. The Extension is popular.) You can come late or leave early. Please just sign up so I know to expect you. **Notes on Parking** * You'll (probably) have to park on the street, but street parking is free on Sundays. * There are [parking garages](https://landgrantbrewing.com/parking/) a little farther away if you want. These are obviously not free, though. * There is a [lot next door](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'26.0%22N+83%C2%B000'40.9%22W/@39.957211,-83.0119921,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m12!1m7!3m6!1s0x88388f3efd89238b:0xc139207386232411!2sLand-Grant+Brewing+Company!8m2!3d39.9577613!4d-83.011426!16s%2Fg%2F1pzt7t9df!3m3!8m2!3d39.957211!4d-83.011347?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEyMS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D) to the brewery that you're allowed to park in, but it is not free. I've never parked there, so I don't know anything about rates. (I'm told though that if you eat at Milo's Deli next door to this lot that Milo's will stamp your parking so it's free.) * You're going to see odd signs on [Lucas St](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'26.1%22N+83%C2%B000'40.3%22W/@39.957256,-83.0124134,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zMznCsDU3JzI4LjgiTiA4M8KwMDAnNDEuNSJX!8m2!3d39.957993!4d-83.011536!3m3!8m2!3d39.957256!4d-83.011197?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEyMS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D) (saying it's a "private street") that will lead you to believe you're not allowed to park there, but you actually are. * Columbus parking cops literally do not work on Sundays. This means that, even if you're driving a non-EV, you can park in the EV spots near the brewery. **Games** I do bring many games, but please bring some of your own as well.