Discover Your Neighborhood

A most delightful FREE 4.5/5 mile walk on a lovely spring evening ! We shall leave the meeting place at 6.45pm and proceed to walk alongside the boating lake in Regents Park and then join the Regents Canal by London Zoo, taking in an amazing view of London from atop Primrose Hill en route to delightful Little Venice. You may wish to have a drink in Little Venice at the end of the walk. Please bring water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and walking shoes or trainers. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no is 07714250849

We hold two pub evenings a month on the first and third Wednesdays, with all the other Wednesdays being Zoom pub evenings. We also normally have a monthly quiz on the last Wednesday of the month, during the Zoom evening, at about 9pm, where a different member of our group prepares the questions to be used each month. This means that tonight is an actual pub evening. We are meeting at the Elm Tree pub in Elmers End. This is an Irish pub and is between Elmers End Green and Elmers End tram stop/South-Eastern railway station. Parking is free in the nearby side-streets and in the pub car-park. There are quite a few bus routes in the local vicinity. Look for the IVC name on one of the tables. We usually try to sit towards the back of the pub on the right hand side, in the restaurant area.If you cannot find us, phone (but not text) Roland on 07761 265 390. Most members will be eating here tonight and the meal prices and menu are typical for this type of pub.

EVENING WALK - HIGHBURY FIELDS - A linear 4.5 mile walk from Highbury & Islington Station, taking in Highbury Fields, the impressive new Emirates Stadium, Gillespie Park - a local nature reserve, and on through Finsbury Park to take the route of a disused railway track - Parkland Walk South, to Highgate underground station (Northern Line) /Woodman Pub where the walk ends. Option of staying on for a drink after. Walk leader: Yvonne Start 6.45 pm - Meet outside Highbury & Islington station.

**PLEASE VISIT THE WEBSITE TO CONFIRM SESSION DETAILS AND LET US KNOW YOU PLAN TO ATTEND. THIS IS MANDATORY.** **Want to do something useful with your exercise? GoodGym is no ordinary gym. We're a group of people who get fit by doing good - helping out local charities and community groups with physical jobs like shifting compost and planting trees.** **📍 We meet at** **London Fields, Hackney, London, E8 3EU** **at 6:15pm.** **🏃‍♂️ At 6:30pm we'll run, walk or cycle to do a 30-40 minute task.** **🏃‍♂️ Then we'll head back to where we started by 8:15pm, do some stretches and maybe grab a beverage?** It's FREE. It's fun. It's fulfilling. And we're a very friendly bunch. 🍇 — **BOOK ONTO THE SESSION** **To come to the session click here:** https://www.goodgym.org/v3/sessions **You will need to confirm your attendance on the GoodGym website** (this includes creating an account with us if you haven’t already - it only takes a few mins). The link above takes you to the session listings in your area - if this session doesn’t fit your schedule, you may find something that does so check it out. p.s. GoodGym is a charity and you will be asked whether you’d like to donate when first creating an account. The choice is yours and does not affect your ability to attend a session. — **FAQ** Not sure you'll keep up? GoodGym is for everyone (18+). Whether you've never run before, or are chasing a marathon PB, you are 100% welcome. We always have a back-marker so no one gets left behind. 70% of GoodGym members start as non-runners so if you're new to this kind of thing you will be supported by people who are all on the same journey. 👍 What do I need to wear? Most of us wear gym/running gear. Make sure you're prepared for the weather. Don't feel like you're fit enough? Our tasks are simple and fun. There are easy jobs as well as more challenging things for those who want a workout! The choice is always yours. Do I need to bring anything? Gardening gloves are really useful for a lot of GoodGym tasks. And a head torch too if it’s likely to get dark. Please bring some if you can but there’s no requirement 🧤💡🧤 What is GoodGym? We're a (really lovely) group of people who use our energy to make a difference in our local community (and in communities across the UK!). We often meet on a weeknight, at least once a week, for a session to do good and get fit. We'd love you to come and join us. Any questions, just pop a comment below or send me a message. Find out everything you need to know at goodgym.org

**On Wednesday 6th May, we're excited to be hosting our latest FREE Board Games Night, 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 Uno, social deduction games like Secret Hitler and Werewolf, to party games like Codenames and Chameleon, 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 wanting to play - providing they are short, easy to learn and accessible games for 6+ players🃏 Best of all, over the course of the evening, 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, London SE1 9LX ([https://goo.gl/maps/35TPL864JuAS1ev39)](https://goo.gl/maps/35TPL864JuAS1ev39) Closest Tube stations: Southwark (5 min walk), Waterloo (10 mins walk) Start Time - 7:00pm Finish time: 10:00pm \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- **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 life-long 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/)**

**PLEASE VISIT THE WEBSITE TO CONFIRM SESSION DETAILS AND LET US KNOW YOU PLAN TO ATTEND. THIS IS MANDATORY.** **Want to do something useful with your exercise? GoodGym is no ordinary gym. We're a group of people who get fit by doing good - helping out local charities and community groups with physical jobs like shifting compost and planting trees.** **📍 We meet at** **Charlton House - Royal Greenwich Heritage Trust, Charlton Road, London, SE7 8RE** **at 6:45pm.** **🏃‍♂️ At 7:00pm we'll run, walk or cycle to do a 30-40 minute task.** **🏃‍♂️ Then we'll head back to where we started by 8:45pm, do some stretches and maybe grab a beverage?** It's FREE. It's fun. It's fulfilling. And we're a very friendly bunch. 🍇 — **BOOK ONTO THE SESSION** **To come to the session click here:** https://www.goodgym.org/v3/sessions **You will need to confirm your attendance on the GoodGym website** (this includes creating an account with us if you haven’t already - it only takes a few mins). The link above takes you to the session listings in your area - if this session doesn’t fit your schedule, you may find something that does so check it out. p.s. GoodGym is a charity and you will be asked whether you’d like to donate when first creating an account. The choice is yours and does not affect your ability to attend a session. — **FAQ** Not sure you'll keep up? GoodGym is for everyone (18+). Whether you've never run before, or are chasing a marathon PB, you are 100% welcome. We always have a back-marker so no one gets left behind. 70% of GoodGym members start as non-runners so if you're new to this kind of thing you will be supported by people who are all on the same journey. 👍 What do I need to wear? Most of us wear gym/running gear. Make sure you're prepared for the weather. Don't feel like you're fit enough? Our tasks are simple and fun. There are easy jobs as well as more challenging things for those who want a workout! The choice is always yours. Do I need to bring anything? Gardening gloves are really useful for a lot of GoodGym tasks. And a head torch too if it’s likely to get dark. Please bring some if you can but there’s no requirement 🧤💡🧤 What is GoodGym? We're a (really lovely) group of people who use our energy to make a difference in our local community (and in communities across the UK!). We often meet on a weeknight, at least once a week, for a session to do good and get fit. We'd love you to come and join us. Any questions, just pop a comment below or send me a message. Find out everything you need to know at goodgym.org

VANDOME CYCLES is resuming social cycling (learn to ride and rider development) at Jim Peters Stadium, Mayesbrook Park RM8 2BB every Wednesday from 2 September 2020 at 4pm. For more information and to make a booking email : info@vandomecycles.co.uk

Image above by Wjh31 ( Creative Commons Attribution 3.0) Fee £15 **Pay on the day and RSVP me please by email - on this page - or text** Meet at Aldgate Station @ 11am The Jewish community have an intriguing and often surprising history in this country, dating back to at least the time of William the Conqueror - and in my opinion, well beyond that. And, as with everywhere else in Europe, the majority wound up in the capital. This is a walking tour around one of London's most buzzing and character-filled areas and one that has often been the landing place for immigrants new to the city. I will show you one of the oldest synagogues in Europe, a beautiful soup kitchen, a sculpture that should melt your hearts and introduce you to a variety of colourful characters - if I'm in the mood i may even sing but don't let that put you off! Guided walk £15 - payable on the day Host - Laurence 07889 298573 \*JOIN OUR 45+ NOT GRUMPY FACEBOOK COMMUNITY \* <[https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/](https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/)\>\*

ENJOY THIS UNIQUE WALK IN STUNNING GREEN SPACES. STRENGTHEN NEW FRIENDSHIPS IN A PUB SOCIAL AFTER THE WALK. Today we walk through the contrasting scenery of Crystal Palace Park, Biggin Woods, Norwood Grove and Norbury Park **WALK START:Crystal Palace Park Railway Station** (National Rail - Travel Zone 3/4) WALK ROUTE: From Crystal Palace Park Railway Station we walk across Crystal Palace Park and then enter Westow Park, Upper Norwood Recreation Ground, Biggin Woods, Norwood Grove and Norbury Park. WALK DISTANCE: Approx 6.5 miles. WALK FINISH: Norbury Station ( National Rail). STOPOUT POINT: Throughout the walk we will cross several London bus routes. **Scroll down to see Disclaimer and Notice of Risks.** ENJOY UNIQUE HEALTHY WALKS IN STUNNING GREEN SPACES OR ALONG WATERWAYS IN LONDON. STRENGTHEN NEW FRIENDSHIPS IN A PUB SOCIAL AFTER THE WALK. **COST of EVENT**: **All of the walks on this group are only £5 each to attend. Payment is not collected before the day of the event to allow you maximum flexibility.** **This walk is free for holders of the Ken's Events Membership Card.** Get out, explore and enjoy London's abundant green spaces and surprising surrounding countryside. Give up the city streets for a day and breathe some fresh air. Improve your overall fitness levels and make some new friends at the same time. Social Event: Our walks are social walks, where the emphasis is on meeting new people, enjoying nature, healthy exercise, and fresh air. Our walks are not interrupted with running commentaries or historical lectures, although occasionally features of significance may be pointed out. As such our walks will be continuous with few stops and it is your responsibilty to keep walkers ahead in view and to follow the direction of the walk. We always end the walk at a pub where the socialising can continue. Take this opportunity to visit green parts of London, unknown to most people, and that you would not otherwise have an opportunity to see. RISKS:Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and carry a bottle of water and necessary medication. You need to be moderately fit for this walk and be able to walk for four miles without a break. In these walks we use; pavements, cross busy roads, public parkland, towpaths alongside water, other public paths, and tracks through woodland and countryside. Please only wear good sturdy shoes, trousers are recommended, and take care as surfaces may be uneven, and some paths are also used by joggers and cyclists. Be wary of portruding tree roots and low overhanging branches. If you require insurance for these walks then you must arrange this yourself. No large dogs or small children please. Please arrive in good time to allow opportunity to use toilets at the start of the walk as there may not be any toilet breaks available during the walk. WANT TO COME ON ANOTHER WALK? For a list of future walks go to[ http://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/) DISCAIMER All Ken's Events are subject to a disclaimer. Please click here [https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/](https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/) to find out more about Kens Events/Walks and click on 'read more' to see full disclaimer. Please post no pre-event messages unless you are posting something relevant for the whole group. Kens Events also has a facebook page. [http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) When you arrive at the station look for Ken with Kens Events/Meetup Badge outside the station. WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD? - Light rain is not a problem, only very heavy rain will lead to a postponement.

**Address: 210-212 Southwark Park Road, London SE16 3RX** **Doors Open 11am Event starts 6:30pm-10pm** **Player Capacity: 20 players** Welcome to our **Disney Lorcana** Constructed Tournament. The tournament will be in Swiss format, with prizing distributed to players with a positive record. To participate in the event, alongside your **ticket purchase [here](https://www.thebrotherhoodgames.co.uk/disney-lorcana-events)**, you will need to register to Playhub. If you are unfamiliar, please ask our member of staff upon arrival to the store where a member of staff will be happy to assist. As an added bonus you will be automatically entered in our Brotherhood League system which runs quarterly. Players will have an opportunity to gain points for attendance and winning games with prizes awarded to the top 16 players on the leaderboard, a special tournament will be held at the end of the league season. Please see terms and conditions for more details. If you haven't already, please join our Instagram, YouTube and Discord Server for news about upcoming events, announcements, and social interaction with your fellow players! *The Brotherhood Games Discord* https://discord.com/invite/SJaQXyeNXx

Discover London's Secret Gardens! Join us for a 2-hour (approx) stroll through some of The City's hidden gems - tucked away gardens and green spaces that its easy to miss. We'll end up at a pub just a short walk from Monument and Liverpool Street stations. Come for the gardens, stay for the company!

🚨 Spoiler alert: We built the space we couldn’t find. A place where you can show up alone, say hi first, and meet new people naturally. If you’re ready to expand your circle, you’re in the right place. You can check us out on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/_balancers/) 📸🚨 Get ready for another Social🎉 Here’s the Plan: **7:30 PM – Find Your Team** As soon as the event begins, you’ll receive a card with simple instructions to help you find your teammates among the other attendees. It’s a fun and easy way to start conversations with people in the room. **08:15 PM – Team Challenges Begin** Once teams are formed, the challenges start. The first 3 teams to complete all three challenges win free shots🍹 No skills needed. Just jump in, have a laugh and work together. **09:00 PM – Open Social & Mingling** Once the challenges wrap up, the room opens up. This is the moment to mix, chat and get to know new people. **10:00 PM – Music** The DJ takes over and the night shifts into a more relaxed social vibe. Chat, dance and keep the connections going. ⚠️ Please note: Entry is not guaranteed after 10:00 PM **11:30 PM – After Party** For those who want to keep the night going, we’ll head to a venue close by for the after party. ⚠️Please bring ID if you plan to join the after party. ✨ Pro tip Try to arrive by 7:30 PM to enjoy the full experience. 🔹 Many people come alone. That’s completely normal here. 🔹 Our hosts are on the floor helping people meet and get involved. 🔹 Most attendees join through our app, so the Meetup “Going” list represents only a small portion of the actual crowd. **[📲 Download our app](https://onelink.to/balancers)** You can connect with people you meet, access ticket deals, track rewards and see the photo gallery from the night. **[💬 Join our WhatsApp Community](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IJKXDkwUTlmDsYTOCIUg7O)** for last-minute updates and reminders. **Our pillars are Openness, Respect, Inclusivity, Kindness and Authenticity**. *Attendance at this event is subject to our [Code of Conduct](https://www.balancers.app/code-of-conduct) and [Terms of Service](https://www.balancers.app/term-of-service). By joining, you may receive emails about Balancers events and community updates. You can unsubscribe at any time.*

**SuperPlay** is an **exciting outdoor gameplay meetup**, featuring big games like Capture the Flag, Finch and Blind Assassin! These games are funny, social and tactical 🎈 perfect for making new friends as well as **challenging your mind and body!** \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **📍 LOCATION/HOW TO FIND 📍** Travel to Great Portland St or Regent's Park Underground Station and walk 3mins around Park Square and towards Regent's Park. Cross over Outer Circle Road and walk into Regent's Park up the tree-lined path (The Broad Walk) for 3mins. When you see the Lions with Wings, turn right and follow the path ahead Map (Event Location): **[https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ljy9oyXgL5uhwnx99](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ljy9oyXgL5uhwnx99)** \*\*\*\*\*\*\* All games and activities are **optional** and there's no pressure to compete - this is just a fun way to get some exercise and **make friends for life!** ❤️ Our Gameplay Meetups are **100% FREE** and open to everyone (kids are allowed if accompanied by an adult). We are LGBTQ+ friendly and encourage everyone to be who you are - **we love you for you!** \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **❤️ Support PlayCulture!** If you are loving our free gameplay meetups please consider supporting us on Patreon! **[patreon.com/playculture](https://www.patreon.com/playculture)** or drop us a one-off donation here **[playculture.com/donate](https://www.playculture.com/donate.php)** \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **REVIEWS** ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ *The whole experience was great for the soul. I have made new friends who are now my go to activity buddies. I highly recommend it to your inner child!* \- AnonymousFox ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ *I think for a lot of us it was more than just play, it was a safe space to be ourselves and to have fun. I enjoyed meeting like-minded people who love playing as much as me!* \- Anita ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ *Fresh new games and great people with a relaxed atmosphere that was both action packed and laid back. I felt like a kid again!* \- AnonymousSquirrel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ *I had so much fun! Definitely a very welcoming environment with lots of great people. It was a great way to unwind/de-stress - AnonymousGoat* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **🚀 WHAT HAPPENS AT OUR MEETUPS? 🚀** Your friendly game leader will explain how the games work and lead a little warm up, then game-on! At the end of the meetup we get food and chill until the foxes are out **⚡ WHAT IF I DON'T KNOW HOW THE GAMES WORK? ⚡** Relax! Our games are very simple and we always explain everything you need to know - beginners very welcome! **🎈 CAN I BRING MY FRIEND? 🎈** Yes please! Just select additional tickets if you are bringing someone with you **🥾 WHAT TO BRING** 🌊 \- Trainers and comfy clothes that you don't mind getting a bit muddy\! \- Bottle of water **❤️ MORE INFORMATION 🤔** Visit [www.playculture.com](https://www.playculture.com) for more info **📷 PHOTOGRAPHY 🎥** Please note that we may film or take photos at our events, either for promotion or for our YouTube channel. By attending our events you agree to feature **📢 REMEMBER 📢** These events are free-to-attend social meetups organised by passionate people. You are responsible for yourself and for your own safety. By attending you are agreeing to our terms (available here: [playculture.com/disclaimer](https://www.playculture.com/disclaimer)) Take care out there in the big wide world, and let us know if anything is troubling you **❤️**

ENJOY THIS UNIQUE WALK IN STUNNING GREEN SPACES. STRENGTHEN NEW FRIENDSHIPS IN A PUB SOCIAL AFTER THE WALK. **WALK START: Forest Hill Railway Station** (National Rail and London Overground - Travel Zone 3) WALK ROUTE: Today we walk through the contrasting scenery of Horniman Gardens, Dulwich Park, Sydenham Woods Sydenham Wells Park and Crystal Palace Park. WALK DISTANCE: Approx 6 miles. WALK FINISH: Crystal Palace Station ( National Rail and London Overground). STOPOUT POINT: Throughout the walk we will cross several London bus routes. **Scroll down to see Disclaimer and Notice of Risks.** ENJOY UNIQUE HEALTHY WALKS IN STUNNING GREEN SPACES OR ALONG WATERWAYS IN LONDON. STRENGTHEN NEW FRIENDSHIPS IN A PUB SOCIAL AFTER THE WALK. **COST of EVENT**: **All of the walks on this group are only £5 each to attend. Payment is not collected before the day of the event to allow you maximum flexibility.** **This walk is free for holders of the Ken's Events Membership Card.** Get out, explore and enjoy London's abundant green spaces and surprising surrounding countryside. Give up the city streets for a day and breathe some fresh air. Improve your overall fitness levels and make some new friends at the same time. Social Event: Our walks are social walks, where the emphasis is on meeting new people, enjoying nature, healthy exercise, and fresh air. Our walks are not interrupted with running commentaries or historical lectures, although occasionally features of significance may be pointed out. As such our walks will be continuous with few stops and it is your responsibilty to keep walkers ahead in view and to follow the direction of the walk. We always end the walk at a pub where the socialising can continue. Take this opportunity to visit green parts of London, unknown to most people, and that you would not otherwise have an opportunity to see. RISKS:Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and carry a bottle of water and necessary medication. You need to be moderately fit for this walk and be able to walk for four miles without a break. In these walks we use; pavements, cross busy roads, public parkland, towpaths alongside water, other public paths, and tracks through woodland and countryside. Please only wear good sturdy shoes, trousers are recommended, and take care as surfaces may be uneven, and some paths are also used by joggers and cyclists. Be wary of portruding tree roots and low overhanging branches. If you require insurance for these walks then you must arrange this yourself. No large dogs or small children please. Please arrive in good time to allow opportunity to use toilets at the start of the walk as there may not be any toilet breaks available during the walk. WANT TO COME ON ANOTHER WALK? For a list of future walks go to[ http://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/) DISCAIMER All Ken's Events are subject to a disclaimer. Please click here [https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/](https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/) to find out more about Kens Events/Walks and click on 'read more' to see full disclaimer. Please post no pre-event messages unless you are posting something relevant for the whole group. Kens Events also has a facebook page. [http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) When you arrive at the station look for Ken with Kens Events/Meetup Badge outside the station. WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD? - Light rain is not a problem, only very heavy rain will lead to a postponement.

Join us for 2 loops of the 1.1 mile trail surrounding Civic Park In Reynoldsburg this Thursday (5/7) at 6:30 pm. This is a fully paved trail so no worries about mud after a rainy week. Just come and get some exercise while connecting with others.

In this local meeting, you will discover knowledge that you can use to get over the past. The key to improving your personal motivation, self-confidence, and happiness is to get over your painful memories. When you become free of your past, you will be free from stress, anger, anxiety and depression. Studies show that negative emotions can affect your health. By being free of negative emotions, believe it or not, you will most likely even look younger, feel more energetic, and become healthier! Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is brought to you by the Dianetics and Scientology life improvement center.

**$1 Slices of Pizza!!!** #5xNWPizzaCrawl is back!! Start at Barrell & Tap where Brenz pizza will serve slices at the bar and you can grab the voting link from our booth. Then take a walk to Fibonaccis, Halwanis, Deweys, and finally Jets to choose your favorite! (the walk is about a 10 block square) Join us for this great community event and check back for more information on our route. (Grandview area)

Feeling down? Sometimes depressed? Can't focus? Negativity & stress? Recent losses? Creativity in career and personal life hindered by mental blocks? Sometimes we never fully recover from traumatic experiences. Whether it was yesterday, last week or a year ago, traumatic experiences - a loss of a loved one, losing a job, a breakup - can leave you scarred. You talk about it and feel a little better, but it never goes away. After you hang up the phone, it's still there; the sadness, the cloud, the over-thinking, the worry, the guilt. You try to focus, but you're blocked. You try to look forward into new experiences, new relationships but a cloud is hanging over you, casting a shadow on what you once considered a bright, cheerful future. What happened to your courage? Your strength of character? You're 'why not' attitude? Whoever said 'time heals' must have had a special time machine, because after weeks, months, years, you're wondering - when exactly does that kick in? Sometimes it seems like drinking or drugs are the way to go. But they wear off, and now the problem is still there with added side effects from the drugs. At this free local Meetup event we will talk about: * What causes grief, anxiety and depression to become chronic. * Is it possible to regain your joy and happiness even after traumatic experiences? * How to break away from negativity and focus on the future * What are the steps to take to get control of your mind and your emotions? Learn about a safe, gentle, do-it-yourself counseling that can be done in the comfort of your own home. Let's explore safe, effective solutions for healing from traumatic experiences. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to the event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is sponsored by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center.

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

*We can only take 13 women on this trip.* **The details...** Immerse yourself in the wild splendor of Scotland on this exclusive **women’s 8-day hiking** adventure. Misty moors, heather-clad hillsides, verdant glens, and ancient castles steeped in folklore will fill your camera roll by the end of this trip. ***Learn more about this all women journey here: [Highlands](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/hiking-highlands-scotland-2026)*** **A guided adventure:** Guided by experienced locals, explore the untamed hills of Glencoe and the Cairngorms during invigorating day hikes. Each evening, unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences, forging friendships and savoring Highland hospitality. This is more than a hiking trip. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich history and traditions. Learn about women-led crofts and take a loch plunge while wild swimming (followed by a steamy sauna). **What to expect...** * Hike in Scotland’s rugged Highlands and experience green Glencoe. * Visit a medieval castles and historic stone villages. * Soak up the history of Edinburgh’s city center. * Indulge in delicious and plentiful Scottish cuisine, including fresh seafood, local beer, and hearty breakfasts. * Traverse heather-clad landscapes while giving your body a good workout. (You must train for this trip.) * Enjoy restorative stays at beautiful hotels. **Wait, there's more...** * Bask in the beauty of the Cairngorms. * Hike with other Bold Spirit women who love to travel as much as you do. * Learn about rewilding and women-led crofting. * Shop along the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh. * Take the plunge into a loch for wild swimming and a shoreline sauna experience. * Stretch both your mind and hamstrings on this special journey. The best part? Our team **takes care of the logistics** so you can focus on enjoying a much needed vacation in beautiful Scotland. Are you ready to meet other women who love to hike and travel, plus see Scotland with professional guides? ***Learn more about this all women tour here: [2026 Hiking the Highlands Journey](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/hiking-highlands-scotland-2026)*** * Ask us questions here: [Tell me more about this trip](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact) * Learn about Bold Spirit Travel [here](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/about). * Rates start at $6195