Daytrips to the Mountains

£5 January Special This is a interesting walk with plenty to see, and is very interesting to do, and although it is a urban walk, would recommend you do it if able. We will meet at Pret A Manger 81 Picadilly {downstairs} near Green Park at 10.30 am for a hot drink, at 11 am, we will leave and start our walk. The walk starts at Knightbridge and we will be walking through some Town Squares, Gardens & Mews, and we will walking through parts of Belgravia, Chelsea & Kensington., with it's different architecture, which is well worth seeing. Lunch will be at the Cross Keys Chelsea and needs to be booked {please advise if you want lunch. {/www.thecrosskeyschelsea.co.uk/food-drink/} The walk ends at Kenssington Gardens where you can get a bus back to Green Park and other destinations. If you need any more details please Paul on 07530 675739. (this is not a smart phone) \*JOIN OUR 45+ NOT GRUMPY FACEBOOK COMMUNITY \* \*<[https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/](https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/)\>\*

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-woodwork-flip-lid-dovetail-box-6-afternoons-50/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-woodwork-flip-lid-dovetail-box-6-afternoons-50/) ⋆⋆⋆ **Suitable for:** Confident beginners **Course length:** 6 weeks – afternoons **Dates:** See below for individual dates/times **Key tools:** Marking tools, hand saws, chisels, hand planes **Project:** Flip-lid dovetail box **Details:** An absorbing five-week course for confident beginners and an enjoyable learning experience for anyone with a little woodworking experience. Using a fusion of hardwood and softwood, this five-week course will teach you the fundamentals of woodwork and give you an opportunity to use classic hand tools; brass-backed tenon saws, sharp wood chisels and delicately honed vintage wood planes. This well-proportioned flip-lidded box is constructed of European redwood using a single dovetail joint at each corner and the fitted hardwood lid is attached to the base by a handmade ‘dowel’ peg hinge. The project will familiarise learners with many classic woodwork techniques and is taught with patience and enthusiasm by Andy Nicholl, who has devised this informative and challenging project. You will take home a treasure to treasure- and we hope it will enthuse you to learn how to make many handmade woodwork projects in the years to come. If your keyboard-weary hands have been needing the skill to fulfil and satisfy a yearning desire to create something you can hold, come and join us in our well-equipped and inspiring workshops and discover the wonderful world of woodwork. **Key skills:** * Measuring marking and cutting dovetail joints to make an accurate framed box. * Planing and shaping a hardwood lid to fit the softwood frame base. * Making and fitting a hardwood dowel joint to attach the frame base to the lid.

Have you ever wanted to listen to music amongst great company whilst recovering from the weekends? If so this is the right one for you. Welcome to the first MUSIC event where all of this is possible. With this particular event, it’ll take place at ‘The Archway Tavern’. Every Monday, they always have performances for ‘The Islington Radio’ where they sing and also play acoustic music live. Truthfully, it’s a Monday mood elevator as it does bring joy and energy. Also, this is an opportunity to socialise with one another, form friendships and feel great about one’s selves. 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 
WHAT - Music
WHERE - The Archway Tavern https://maps.app.goo.gl/GnDXooMMzSK5jnqz8?g_st=ipc
WHEN - 8pm - 10pm
MEETING POINT - Inside the Tavern
NEAREST STATIONS - Archway & Upper Holloway Stations
REQUIREMENTS - Please bring your ID just in case and do be on your best behaviour
 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.

The world is in crisis and many people think we've gone past the tipping point and the planet is doomed. However, there are those who have hope and faith in science that some can survive the polycrisis and get to live in a sustainable society and planet. But there's a problem... **There's no clear vision of what a sustainable society and planet should be**, and without that destination, how can we set out on the journey to get there? Please join like-minded people to discuss this. We'll agree an agenda at the start of the meeting. Bring an open mind, suggestions and perhaps a pad of paper. **Here are some topics to be covered.** Please use the comments/chat to suggest other areas for consideration *Depending on the mood of attendees, the frequency of further meetups can be agreed.* **WHAT DO WE WANT A SUSTAINABLE SOCIETY AND PLANET TO LOOK AND FEEL LIKE?** · A planet with clean atmosphere, oceans and soil with systems in place to keep them that way · The abolition of poverty and hunger · Equality of opportunity for all to achieve a peaceful and contented life without fear of physical or other violence · Access to healthcare, hygiene and sanitation for all · Access to quality education for all · A more responsible system of financial structures which embraces the best of co-operative production, capitalism and other systems · A safe justice system for all · Societies which respect for the diversity of opinion, ethnicity, sexuality, religion · Respect for the natural resources and fragility of Planet Earth and their finite capacity · Societies where the more fortunate, stronger and healthier help those less strong, less fortunate or less healthy. · Peaceful co-existence between the varying communities of the planet **What Freedoms ?** · Freedom to travel anywhere · Freedom to worship (should there be limitation such as worship should not be based on destroying the existing system…??) · Freedom from violence · Freedom from hate · Freedom from poverty (how define?) · Freedom of speech · Freedom from anxiety about the future · Freedom from concentration of power · Freedom to preserve culture and arts · Freedom to make decisions about one’s body · Freedom to seek representation and to represent others · Freedom to be different · Freedom to be heard

Join us to discuss Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbon. We will be in the function room (please ask at the bar if you can’t find us) Please arrive from 6.30pm and order any food or drink for a 7pm start. Your first meet up is free and then it is £1.50 to cover Meet Up's costs. You are welcome to bring suggestions for March (we vote 2 months in advance) 😊

Life drawing classes tend to involve short poses which seldom allow time for painters to adjust their paintings sufficiently. In this class we will work with a life model who will take a single pose for the two hours each week, giving us more time to adjust and correct our paintings. Artists of all levels are welcome to attend, but this is a self directed class and no tuition will normally be given. Please bring your own water-based painting material such as acrylics, gouache or watercolours as the room is not equipped for oil-based paints. There is a sink in the kitchen adjoining the studio room where water can be obtained. The two hour session will start at 2.30pm and end at 4.30pm with a 15 minute tea break at 3.30pm. Newington Green Meeting House is an historic Unitarian Chapel situated on the North side of Newington Green. Access to the class will be by the side door; please ring the bell when you arrive. The charge for the class is £10.

**Join us on *Discord* to keep updated!** **[(Click me! Online Offline Discord)](https://discord.gg/uuwybw93kj)** This event is a free Online Offline event held weekly! If you are interested in watching the stars, or have a telescope but couldn't find the right time to use it - this is the event for you! We will be star gazing at Hampstead Heaths famous viewpoint. Please contact us for more information on the final location as we will meet at Hampstead Heath overground. Online Offlines free events are inclusive and community led. Each event is curated and the attendees are the hosts. For this event - we will provide equipment however, if you have the relevant gear & wouldn't mind hosting the event - just let us know! You may find all links to our social media & our contact details on our Meetup page. ***Please bring binoculars or a telescope if you have one.*** ***Minimum attendance needs to be at least 10 people for this event to go ahead!***

**Come for drinks — stay for adventure!** Whether you’re brand-new to the group, thinking about joining your first hike, or climbing Snowdon next weekend — this is the place to meet City Mountaineering members in real life. **Why come along?** 🌄 Meet *other mountain lovers* who live and work in London 🥾 Ask questions directly about upcoming trips (fitness, kit, routes) 🗺️ Hear stories from recent weekends in the mountains 🍺 Relax with great people before the next big adventure **Who this is for** Anyone curious about: * Snowdonia, Lake District & Scottish mountain trips * Mountain skills & hillwalking * Travelling from London to epic peaks You don’t need to have done a hike with us before — all are welcome 👋 **What to expect** * Drinks in a cosy pub atmosphere * Friendly people from the group * Useful informal chat about trips and hiking tips * Zero pressure, no agenda **Pro tip:** If you’re considering a trip soon, this is the *perfect step* before booking — meet the group and feel confident about your next adventure. **Location** The Porterhouse, Covent Garden - [https://porterhouse.london](https://porterhouse.london) **RSVP now to let us know you’re coming! 🚀**

Have you ever hiked to the summit of the highest mountain in England? **Have you climbed it in winter!?** \- Well that is exactly what we are doing on this trip\! To fully appreciate and enjoy a winter ascent, it is best to be properly prepared for the winter environment - with an early start, good crampon technique and the right equipment all helping to give a truly memorable mountain day. *This trip is suitable for anyone, regardless of winter hiking experience - A Full day of winter skills tuition will be provided prior to attempting the hike to the highest point in England* If you already have winter hiking experience, this day of tuition will be great to hone your skills and reacquaint yourself with the skills you've already learnt \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **ITINERARY** **Friday PM** Meet outside Euston Railway Station and take a relaxing train journey north, to The Lake District. You will be met in The Lake District by your guide and transported the short distance to your accommodation for the weekend. **Saturday** A full introduction to what we will be doing, a safety briefing, a kit check, a hike to the snow/ice line for an introduction to the winter environment, an introduction/revision of ice axe/cramponing skills and the style of mountaineering required for a winter ascent. **Sunday** An early start, with the option of ascending using the track up the Eskdale Valley, direct from Wasdale Head, or along the Corridor Route. The specific route we take will depend on experience, ability and weather conditions. After safely returning to the vehicles, you will be transported back to the railway station for your onward train journey back to London. *(Return train journey is included in the cost of this trip)* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **ACCOMMODATION!** Hotel/Hostel (twin rooms) to ensure we are warm and comfortable in the evening. Your minimum kit list should be: * Base Layers * Fleece * Warm/Insulated Jacket * Hiking Trousers * Waterproof Jacket * Waterproof Trousers/Salopettes * Hat or Balaclava * Warm Ski Type Gloves/Mittens (A spare pair is also recommended in case one gets wet) * Warm Socks * Sturdy Hiking Boots * Ski Goggles * Sunglasses * Back Pack suitable for day hikes (30-35 litres) * Waterbottle and / or thermos flask * Headtorch * Personal medication \*\*\* **Cost:** £445 for the entire weekend **Included in the price:** * Return train travel from London to The Lake District * Road transport and logistical support in The Lake District * 2-nights hostel/hotel accommodation * Technical equipment required for winter hiking (ice axe, crampons and helmet) and lessons in how to use them. * Tuition and 2-days of guided hikes by a highly experienced and qualified Winter Mountain Leader including the ascent of Scafell Pike Not included in the price: * Your personal hiking kit * All food throughout the weekend * Personal travel insurance \*\*\* **To join this trip, simply RSVP and pay the £100 deposit. We will then be in contact with further trip information, kit list and request for final payment (amount depends on whether you elect to use the Sleeper train, or not)** \*\*\* *Note: The weather and ground conditions will not be known until closer to the date and full winter conditions, whilst expected at this time of year, cannot be guaranteed. The trip will go ahead regardless of conditions (The only exception being if the prevailing weather is too dangerous e.g. Thunderstorms)* \*\*\* *All City Mountaineering trips are compliant with the 2018 Package Travel regulations (including financial protection)* ***Please be aware of our [Participation Statement](https://www.citymountaineering.com/participation-statement) and [Terms & Conditions](https://www.citymountaineering.com/terms-and-conditions) prior to joining***

**Backabush has some exciting plans for another expedition. This time we are heading for Kenya, to the trekkers summit of Africa's second highest mountain!** Point Lenana is our goal at **4985m** where we hope to arrive as the sun rises over the central plains of Kenya. When bagging high African summits most people head to Kilimanjaro but the journey up Mt Kenya has far fewer crowds and is arguably a much more interesting hike. As with many mountains, not all paths up are equal. We will take the Chogoria route, led by our expert local team. This route is the most scenic and varied in its landscape so we can experience the most beautiful sides of this magnificent mountain. We will spend 6 days and 5 nights camping on the mountain, descending on the opposite side along the Sirimon route, sleeping in tents along the way. We will be supported by our experienced team of guides, cooks and porters. Our local team will also provide us with all the camping equipment we need. **Difficulty** Our first days on the mountain will be shorter than average hiking days whilst our bodies adapt but **BE WARNED**; the summit day will be a massive challenge, hiking for 12 hours at high altitude with a 2.30am wake up call so we can reach the summit for sunrise. **Weather** On safari it will be - yes you guessed it - warm. January is one of the best times to climb Mt Kenya as it's in the dry season so clear skies are much more likely but **as we approach the summit it will be very cold**. Snow is not uncommon and at our high camps we may encounter temperatures as low as -10 at night. So its thermals, fleeces and down jackets at top. **Acclimatisation** This has to be considered carefully. Our plan is to gradually ascend, spending 6 days on the mountain so we have time to properly acclimatise and enjoy our hike. Many companies offer 5 day, and even 4 day itineraries but as we will be travelling from almost sea level in the UK this would put us at too high risk of experiencing altitude sickness. With an extra day we should be able to enjoy our trek much more. **[See the full itinerary here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nbvxZENE8JnjF_1OXhaVGwyLvHR2LAOP-JHUjKk79FY/edit?usp=sharing)** **SAFARI -** We couldn't possibly plan a trip to Kenya without taking some time to experience some of the best wildlife spotting opportunities in the world. After our tough mountain hike we have planned a 3 night safari staying in comfortable lodges so we can shower, rest and recover from our trek. First we will stay for 2 nights in the **Samburu National Reserve**, a vast expanse of remote pristine wilderness, bordering the Ewaso Ng'iro River. This area is home to elephants, lions, zebras, ostriches, giraffes, as well as leopards, cheetahs and more. We will then travel to the **Ol Pejeta Conservancy** for another game drive where will also stay the night in a safari lodge. This is a not-for-profit protected area home to **'the big 5'** which has incredible bio diversity and some hugely effective conservation projects. It is regarded as an example of how safari tourism can have a positive impact on the local communities as well as the wildlife populations. Check out their great work here: [https://www.olpejetaconservancy.org/](https://www.olpejetaconservancy.org/) In Ol Pejeta we will also visit the Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Sanctuary for chimps rescued from the bushmeat trade. While visiting Ol Pejeta we also have the opportunity to **experience a night time game drive**, a truly unique experience in the dark to spot the nocturnal wildlife with the park rangers. This is $75 USD extra. **Accommodation** * Mountain tents at basic campsites on Mt Kenya * 2 nights at Sopa Lodge Samburu, with a pool, outdoor dining and lounge room. Shared twin rooms. * 1 night at The Stables, Ol Pejeta. Shared rooms in a no-frills lodge with shared bathrooms. Chosen for it's excellent location amongst the wildlife in the Conservancy * Single supplement £75 **WHAT'S INCLUDED** * All transport to and from Nairobi * Mt Kenya National Park daily fees * Ol Pejeta Conservancy daily park fees * Samburu National Reserve daily park fees * Experienced local trekking guides * Porters and cooks for the hike * All meals from pick up to drop off. See itinerary for details. * Mountain tents, sleeping mats and other camping equipment * Campsite fees * 3 nights safari lodge accommodation in shared rooms * Safari guides and safari vehicles for game drives, see itinerary * 1 Backabush trip leader * Financial protection in line with package travel regulations **WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED** * Flights to Nairobi * Visas * Travel Insurance * Tips for guides, cooks and porters (tips for porters are expected as and we should budget a minimum of 60USD each for this) * Night time game drive $75 USD * **Single supplement** of £75 * Unexpected increases in park fees and taxes - we may be asked to cover increases as 2026 park fees are provisional. **TRAVEL TO NAIROBI** You will need to make you own travel arrangements to **arrive in Nairobi on** **Friday 16th January or before**. I recommend these direct British Airways flights but you can find cheaper flights at very similar times with a stop over starting at around £450 return including baggage with Lufthansa. You will also need to make your own arrangements for accommodation on Friday 16 January. I can recommend a convenient hotel so we can stay together if people would like to. Outbound - Friday 16 January British Airways BA65 Departs - LHR London Heathrow 09:45 Arrives - NBO Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta 21:35 Return - Sunday 25 January British Airways BA64 Departs - NBO Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta 23:55 Arrives - LHR London Heathrow 06:15 +1 We will arrive back in Nairobi on Sunday afternoon so please book a flight departing no earlier than 20:00pm. **HOW TO BOOK** The trip cost is £1650. To confirm your place a £450 deposit is required. Payment can then be made as follows £400 by 01/06 £400 by 01/08 £400 by 01/10 Please send all payments through online banking, using **KENYA** as the payment reference. **Your RSVP is not enough to reserve a space.** The account details are: Account Name: BACKABUSH XPLORERS Sort Code: 090127 Account Number: 22440622 The following "terms and conditions" apply to all trip reservations: [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ngc5A61k76qb6HGMeTK96AVaXn0565yPS9p42IPzIy8/](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ngc5A61k76qb6HGMeTK96AVaXn0565yPS9p42IPzIy8/edit?usp=sharing) Please email nathancapay@googlemail.com when you send payment so that we can confirm everything with you.

**About** THE CASTLE CLIMBING CENTER has about 135 roped/auto-belays numbered routes with each route having up to 6 grades giving it approx 700 routes in total. THE CASTLE CLIMBING CENTER offers bouldering, top-roping, leading and auto-belays at their center. Some of us prefer bouldering while others will be in the top roping, leading or auto-belaying - this is up to you! We climb for a couple of hours and then the group regroups at 12.00 noon sometimes without me other times with me in The Brownswood pub, 271 Green Lanes, Finsbury Park, London N4 2EX for a spot of lunch and a libation. (https://goo.gl/maps/S4FZ9j1AYMPDs7uQ6) a stone's throw from the castle. **Meetups** We get together every Thursday & Sunday at THE CASTLE CLIMBING CENTER meeting at 9:00am in the warming up area or else look out for someone wearing a black RAMS t-shirt around the center. If you're joining for the first time let us know via message and we will keep an eye out for you at the start :) **New Climbers!** Unfortunately, if you haven't climbed before it isn't as easy as just turning up and climbing up the wall. To climb safely you need to understand the hazards and be able to use the equipment correctly. You must have basic climbing skills and know how to put on a harness, attach a rope to a harness using a rethreaded figure of eight(figure of eight on the bight) and know how to use a belay device to pay out the rope and secure a falling climber etc. So before your first climb, you may be required by the climbing center to fill out health and safety forms. This may involve a quick test on climbing rules at the counter on arrival. Please add an extra 10/15 minutes before your session if you need to register for the first time. THE CASTLE CLIMBING CENTER terms and conditions will apply. Please also note signing up for the Meetup session won’t necessarily grant you access to the center. **Other communication** Within these groups, you are possibly likely to develop long-lasting friendships. Don't forget we have a Discord page and WhatsApp https://chat.whatsapp.com/JNJ81oLSKB2JGaNm79em0C. The group will always be very varied when it comes to climbing levels, abilities and modality preferences. Do shout out if you have any questions. If you want to have a chat about this or other meetups, or just to keep in touch, ask to join us on Discord and/or WhatsApp. We have a dedicated THE CASTLE CLIMBING CENTER chat, but also talk about all things climbing (and some non-climbing!) including trips, gear talks and looking for climbing partner/s situations. **You’ll Rock it** A word of warning this sport is very, very addictive once bitten your its mistress for life. The simple challenge of you against the rock is sublime, there are competitions but then really the only real competition is 'you and the rock'. As climbing can be a very social activity we look forward to sharing our passion with yours. *Happy climbing!* p.s. Eventually, we will be starting and incorporating our climbing academy where we aim to bring skills, ropework and technique etc to enhance your climbing ability, using 25mm chalk bag colored belts to indicate your level. Naturally, THE CASTLE CLIMBING CENTER will also run courses to help improve your techniques too. Contact THE CASTLE CLIMBING CENTER for more info.

Kindly understand that This is Not an online event. We created this for the people to communicate with each other (in the comment section) to find their travel mates. However, since the Meetup site requires a date and time. We constantly have to update the date and time to keep the event alive. **Dear friends,** If you have plans to travel somewhere in the world, and you are looking for a travel mate/roommate, you can post it here to let others know, and maybe you can arrange to travel together. It would probably be a good idea to meet up before deciding to travel together but at least this will give you a chance to find a like-minded travel mate. **How to Choose the Right Travel-mate** 1. Have some common interests. 2. Avoid people who tend to extremes. 3. Agree on expenditures before you leave. 4. Make sure your personalities 5. Friends aren’t always good travel companions 6. Don’t go backpacking with a luxury-seeker 7. Make sure you’re able to communicate 8. Agree on a similar budget 9. Avoid picky, crazy and whiny individuals 10. Test each other on a short trip 11. You don’t have to be like a couple of inseparable lovebirds Good Luck and Cheers, Ree & Smyl

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 11 miles (17km) • Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 485m • 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 mid-afternoon stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: Victoria station. Meet between WHSmith (no 34) and Nero Express (no 29) - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Victoria.jpg) & [photo](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/VictoriaPhoto.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:05am, leave 8:25am for the 8:41am train • Return: 5:53pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Hike through the **Surrey Hills AONB** (422 km²) — one of England’s most beautiful landscapes • Visit the famous **Box Hill viewpoint** with far-reaching views over Surrey and Sussex • Enjoy varied hiking across **woodland, downs and the River Mole** • Visit **Denbies Wine Estate** — England’s largest vineyard and award winner • Cross the iconic **Stepping Stones** on the River Mole • See the twisting Olympic cycle race roads (2012) 🥾 **Hike Description** For centuries, the beauty of **Box Hill** has inspired artists, writers and musicians. **Jane Austen** set a scene from Emma here, George Lambert painted it in 1733 (now in Tate Britain), and it has even featured in modern songs. The poet **Keats** and **G.K. Chesterton** also drew inspiration from these hills, showing how this corner of Surrey has long captured creative imaginations. Our hike begins in the **Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty**, with woodland and rolling trails through Norbury Park before joining the twisting roads used in the **2012 Olympic cycling race**. From here, we climb to the summit of Box Hill, where the **Salomons Memorial viewpoint** offers sweeping panoramas across the Weald and as far as Devil’s Dyke by the South Coast. On the way we also encounter traces of history, including a late 19th-century fort built to defend against French invasion and the semi-ruined folly tower from 1815. After soaking up the views, we descend to the **River Mole** and cross its famous **Stepping Stones**, a much-loved landmark of the area. The trail then continues through open chalk downland and woodland before reaching **Denbies Wine Estate**, the largest vineyard in England, winner of international awards including Best Rosé in the World at the 2010 International Wine Challenge. A wonderfully varied hike that blends chalk downs, riverside beauty, iconic views and layers of history — all within easy reach of London. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [LYUBAVA](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07883 405294 🍽️ **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

**⚔️ Introduction to Wargaming & Painting Miniature Soldiers at The Arcane Foundry ⚔️** Join me in **The War Room at [The Arcane Foundry](https://share.google/S5i6DYJnJteHWeKtd)** for a laid-back evening of hobby talk and tabletop fun! For just **$15**, you’ll get a **3D-printed regiment of 20 high quality resin models** of your choice to paint — a **$40 value!** Bring your creativity, relax, and let’s make something awesome together. **Choose one from Below:** * 20 Orc Warriors * 20 Empire Soldiers * 20 Dwarf Warriors * 20 Elf Spearmen Step into a world where strategy meets artistry — and where every painted figure tells a story of battle, honor, and imagination. Join **Daclaud** at **The Arcane Foundry** for an evening that introduces newcomers and enthusiasts alike to the timeless craft of **tabletop wargaming** and **miniature painting**. My own journey began with a fascination for fantasy — knights in armor, grim and hardened warriors, and monstrous creatures locked in epic battle. That passion led me to **Dungeons & Dragons**, where I painted my first **Basic Heroes set** and felt the spark that comes from bringing a character to life in miniature form. Not long after, I discovered **Warhammer Fantasy** and **Warhammer 40,000**, and I was hooked. The vision of vast armies clashing across the table — each unit meticulously painted, each story unfolding through dice and imagination — became my creative obsession. During this event, we’ll explore the **origins of wargaming**, from its early military simulations to the richly detailed worlds of modern tabletop battle systems. You’ll learn how to **build and customize your own armies**, paint your first figures, and experience the joy of turning strategy and storytelling into a hands-on art form. Whether you’re drawn by the lore, the hobby, or the thrill of commanding miniature legions, this introduction will open the gates to a world that has captivated hobbyists for generations. **🎨 RSVP today and join us at The Arcane Foundry — where every brushstroke and battle tells a story.**

Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.

Mental Health, how do you understand it? How can you improve it? How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp. This group is hosted by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

Come assist Van Buren Shelter (https://ymcacolumbus.org/locations/vanburen) staff in serving dinners and cleaning up on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Dinner for the women is 5-6 pm and for the families is 6:15-7:15 pm. There is ample free parking available in the shelter's lot. The recommended area to park is in green in the image above. There will be a new entrance for the time being. We are asking all volunteers to enter through the Donation Dock door, the orange mark on the image above. This door is located between the Single Adults and Family Shelter. You will see 2 large garage doors with a large green trash compactor in the center. Please head to the closest garage door to the building wall, with a ramp leading up. There, you will see a door with a sign stating instructions on how to enter the building. Please ring the doorbell, and a staff member will come and escort you into the building. If a staff member takes longer than 5 minutes, please call the front desk at 614-689-2020. This is a new process for us, and we do not want to keep you waiting! We appreciate your patience as we navigate this temporary change. The shelter needs a volunteer count the day before the event so sign-up ends Monday at 4:50 PM. Afterwards some of us go to the Omnipresent Atheists Weekly Meetup in progress to have a bit to eat or drink (http://www.meetup.com/omnipresentatheists/). Volunteers must be 14 or older. Since we will be working around families, the YMCA does not permit volunteering by individuals with convictions for violent or sexual crimes. The YMCA reserves the right to run background checks on volunteers. For questions, comment on this page or contact: Andrew, awhit12@yahoo.com, (614)937-5802 (cell). Please let Andrew know if you volunteer anytime other than our COUNT events so that he can count your hours toward our service record.

***FREE TOUR TICKET FOR ALL OF YOU WONDERFUL MEETUP MEMBERS*** Use Promo Code **MEETUP2025** to get your free ticket and route smart guide at [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sol-in-columbus-oh-a-smart-guided-short-one-way-loop-bikeway-tour-tickets-769120860197](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sol-in-columbus-oh-a-smart-guided-short-one-way-loop-bikeway-tour-tickets-769120860197) You can do the tour solo/with your favorite peeps, or try to generate a group ride of Meetup CycleNuts by RSVPing here and posting the day and time you are interested in others joining you. Either way, have fun on your memory-making adventure, and thank you for being a CycleNut! ### SOL in Columbus, OH \- A Smart\-guided Short One\-way Loop Bikeway Tour Short One-way Loop (SOL) in Columbus on bikeways. The smart-guided tour is mostly through scenic riverside parks with a quick downtown peek. All of that in 10 miles! 83% of the route is bikeway, and the rest is Google Maps designated "bicycle-friendly roads". This short ride passes through several beautiful riverside parks. Passing through downtown the route runs alongside Huntington Park baseball stadium, Nationwide Arena hockey stadium, near North Market (worth a stop if you enjoy markets with lots of tasty treats), within a few blocks of the state capitol, convention center, art museum, center of science and industry, several first-class hotels, and much more (see Points of Interest list below). Easily, anywhere along the way, the tour can be detoured to nearby points of interest. This smart-guided route comes with CycleNuts' 50% downhill guarantee. Sweating is optional. If your bike has gears, you might use them to climb in a few spots. All bikes are appropriate for this smart-guided tour (even a single-speed if you do not mind walking your bike up the spots mentioned). The route is shaded about 50% of the way. Sweating is optional - you set your pace, starting time, and touring agenda. Points of interest: COSI Scioto River North Market German Village The Scioto Mile Brewery District Huntington Park Nationwide Arena Columbus Union Station Arch Greater Columbus Convention Center **The Meetup plan = Show up, Rally with whoever else shows up, and Roll following the smart-guided instructions.** This is a smart guided tour route that can be ridden any day or time, solo or with others. It is only posted with a repeating set time and date with a tour leader to fit the Meetup format, and, more importantly, to encourage you to get out and ride when it is convenient for you. **If you are going to ride it and would like the company of others, then simply RSVP and post in the comments when it is that you are going to ride - date and time.** Take pictures/videos and share. Have fun! ***This is a repeating event on the calendar***\*, but the date and time do not necessarily need to be what is posted. **If you are interested in riding with a group, then simply RSVP and leave a message in the comment section** giving the date and time you would like others to join you. If you are interested in riding by yourself or with your private group of friends, then simply do it.\* ***The mission of this format is to create a catalog*** *of free group tour routes available for CycleNuts to ride as a group, or solo, in an area spanning several states. **The goal is to get people out cycling** either in groups or solo. **The vision is a cycling community with resources** available for bike tours, bike talk, and a format for lives experienced at the speed of bike.*