Field Trips

**Walking Through Stories: Jane Austen & Watership Down Weekend** 📚🚶‍♀️ Explore the literary landscapes of Hampshire on this brand-new hotel-based walking weekend. With *single rooms* available, enjoy guided walks through the countryside that inspired Jane Austen and the classic tale *Watership Down*. 📍 **Location:** Hampshire 🔗 **Find out more and book here:** [https://www.largeoutdoors.com/walking-through-stories-jane-austen-watership-down-weekend](https://www.largeoutdoors.com/walking-through-stories-jane-austen-watership-down-weekend)

Social weekly badminton group. Wren Academy is a great venue, local to Enfield, Cockfosters, Potters Bar, Oakwood etc. There are 4 courts, all ages from 18+ welcome. We use plastic shuttles not feathers to keep costs down. All games are doubles format. KINDLY NOTE, WE ARE UNABLE TO ACCOMODATE BEGINNER LEVEL PLAYERS. The club is supported by regular members who pay in advance to secure the booking at a discounted rate. These regular members enjoy a discounted session rate (approx £4) and this facility (if there are spaces) will be open to new people once a new session starts, typically every 4 months. Next membership starts 19th Sept 2025. Please message on whatsapp if interested, Louise 07835 671814. The current rate for guest players is £7 for 2 hours 7.30-9.30pm (full payment regardless of your individual attendance time). You can pay cash on the night but preferably via bank transfer to the following account please: **Mrs L James and Mr P Thakore Sort code: 230580 Account number: 41895675 Please include your name as reference.** There will be no refund for non attendance so please be sure you can make it before you send payment.

Join us for a heartwarming family gathering where children of all ages, along with their furry dog friends and beloved grandparents, are warmly welcomed with open arms! **Place:** Republic.London Sandpit **Where:** Sandpit Outside East India DLR station, next to Tesco Express **Time:** 3 pm to 5 pm **Cost: £1** (Just pay for the adult, this decreases the chance of no shows) This special event invites parents to come together with their kids to have a fun play time in the sand pit! Let’s gather, unwind, and delight in watching our children play, laugh, and make memories together!

We play every Friday 7 a-side football at Highbury Fields 3G Football Pitch - 1 hour game - Fun game - Confirm your attendance online via Footy Addicts website (www.footyaddicts.com) We do not use Meetup to confirm attendance any more, please sign up on Footy Addicts and join the attendance list at the game page!

**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! 🚀**

**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! 🚀**

Come and enjoy a cultured social evening, a tour with an experienced British Museum tour guide, in a small group of about 16 people and then socialise afterwards. It's a history tour with a difference: It's a group dating event/ history guided tour for single people who love history. I bring the history and you bring the chemistry. The guided walk of the museum is by Let's Discover London (we've been giving guided tours of London since 2006) and your tour guide was an official tour guide at the museum and even had sleepovers with the mummies (so you'llget the insider scoops) The event is suitable for people.- who love history but can bring chemistry -find dating apps, and modern digital dating contrived. **The event will run as follows**: Meet your guide and the group at the entrance to the museum (we have roughly an even split of ladies and gentlemen) and then we'll have brief introductions. Then our guided tour starts. Artefacts range from the Rosetta Stone, the bust of Pharoah Rameses ll, the Parthenon sculptures (the 'Elgin Marbles', Sutton Hoo, the bog body, the Lewis chessmen, a crystal skull, There'll be time for interactions as we walk between the stops and we will use a voting app which you'll be requested to download in advance, to see whose answers match. It's the History Geek Compatibility Alogorithm! Watch how people vote. (Voting for a statue of Aphrodite is different to voting for a bog body). And for our final 1.5 hours we will retire to a nearby pub for a drink to talk about history, the universe and more.

## 🥾 GO London Hiking – Epping Forest & High Beach Hike (via Upshire & Copt Hall House) ### 🌄 Overview Join GO London Hiking for a stunning countryside adventure starting right at the end of the Central Line in the pretty town of **Epping**. Within minutes of leaving the station, we’ll be walking through rolling **Essex countryside**, passing open fields, ancient woodland, and royal hunting grounds once enjoyed by **Henry VIII** and **Queen Elizabeth I**. This route combines peaceful forest trails, sweeping views, and a touch of Tudor history – a perfect day out for anyone looking to stretch their legs and explore one of London’s most accessible green escapes. This circular route through **Epping Forest** showcases one of England’s oldest royal forests, officially designated for hunting in the **12th century** and still protected today. Along the way we pass the impressive **Copt Hall House**, a fine example of **Georgian architecture** built on land once gifted by **Queen Elizabeth I**. Although gutted by fire in 1917, restoration work continues, making it a fascinating landmark of local heritage. We’ll also visit **High Beach**, one of the highest points in the forest, where clear days offer panoramic views across the **Lea Valley** towards **Central London**. This spot is perfect for lunch or a coffee break at the visitor centre café. *** ### 🕓 **Schedule & Meeting Info** **Meeting Time**: 10:00 Epping Underground Station (outside main entrance) **Trains:** Central Line – frequent trains from Central London to Epping (Zone 6) **Tickets:** Return on the Underground (use Contactless, Travelcard, or Oyster) **Hike Start:** 10:10 Epping Underground Station (outside main entrance) **Hike Finish:** Around 16:30 at Loughton Underground Station (Central Line) **Return Trains:** Every few minutes back to Central London **Hike Leader:** Gary 07968585224 🚆 Train fare is **not included** – please purchase your own return ticket in advance or on the day. *** ### 🎒 **What to Bring** ✅ Hiking boots or sturdy shoes ✅ Waterproof jacket & layers for changing weather ✅ Packed lunch, snacks & water ✅ Train ticket / Contactless / Travelcard *** ### 📏 **Grade & Distance** **Grade:** Beginner / Intermediate **Distance:** 14 km / 9 miles **Ascent:** 148 metres **Terrain:** Mostly good forest paths and gentle hills *** ### 💬 **About GO London Hiking** We’re one of London’s most active and welcoming hiking groups — connecting over 40,000 outdoor enthusiasts for adventures across the UK and beyond. All hikes are led by qualified and insured leaders passionate about nature, wellbeing, and community. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned hiker, you’ll feel right at home. *** ### 💚 **Stay Connected** 📱 WhatsApp: 07968585224 📩 Mailing List: [Go London](https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk/contact) 🌐 Website: [www.golondonhiking.co.uk](https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk) 👥 Meetup: GO London Hiking 🎟️ Eventbrite Page: [GO London Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/go-london-hiking-17576718759) 📸 Instagram: [@golondonhiking](https://www.instagram.com/golondonhiking/) 👍 Facebook Page: [Go London Adventure](https://www.facebook.com/GoLondonAdventure/) 👥 Facebook Group: [Go London Hiking](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoLondonHiking/) 📜 **Terms & Conditions** By signing up, you agree to our full T&Cs including our cancellation and refund policy.

Come along on Sunday 18th January for a treasure hunt around the Science Museum! The treasure hunts are a good way to get to know a museum, gallery or area whilst meeting new people. This treasure hunt is based around the Science Museum. **About the museum** The museum was founded in 1857 under Bennet Woodcroft from the collection of the Royal Society of Arts and surplus items from the Great Exhibition of 1851. The Science Museum now holds a collection of over 300,000 items, including such famous items as Stephenson's Rocket, Puffing Billy (the oldest surviving steam locomotive), the first jet engine, a reconstruction of Francis Crick and James Watson's model of DNA, some of the earliest remaining steam engines, and working example of Charles Babbage's Difference engine. **How it works** Come along at 1:30pm and you will be randomly divided into teams of 3 people (or you can choose your own team beforehand). For fairness, any London Guides or Blue Badge Tour Guides won't be allowed to take part. Then each team will be given 15-20 written clues which you have to find the answers for. It's up to your team to work together to find the answers. You can answer them in any order and you will be provided with a map of the museum to help you. It's not a race, so you can take your time getting to know the museum. The answers to the clues will be found on the information cards of the objects or on the object itself. The treasure hunts are a good way to get to know the museum whilst meeting and getting to know new people! **Prizes** The team to get the most correct answers and then return to base (a local pub or cafe) will win book vouchers for Waterstones bookshops of £10 per person. If more than one team gets the top score, there will be a tie break question back at the pub. A £5 gift voucher per person will be given to each member of the team coming in second place and prizes will be given to each member of the team with the best team name. **Cost** Its £7 per person to take part (payable by cash on the day), apart from Full Members where it is free! **Become a Full Member** To become a Full Member (£14 a year), either: \- Pay cash at an event \- Pay via Bank Transfer \(TSB Bank plc\, Sort code: 77\-66\-65\, Account no: 00030809, Account name: Cultureseekers)) \- Pay via credit card on the day or in advance \([https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI](https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI)) \- Pay via PayPal\, send a payment to general@cultureseekers\.org\, using the ‘Friends & Family’ option Benefits of becoming a Full Member [here...](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/531979527/) We will be marking the scores back at the pub/cafe at 4:30pm, so it should all be over by 5:00pm. Look out for the red & blue 'London Cultureseekers' group sign/flag. If you can't see us, please text. Look forward to seeing you there! Robert 07905 901 834 (prefer text) or email: [general@cultureseekers.org](http://general@cultureseekers.org) ***On the day, if you can’t make the visit, just change your RSVP to No or text me to say you can’t make it.*** ***Please don’t post any messages in the comments that you can’t make it, as this generates spam for everyone else.*** *Please make sure you are aware of the group rules here before RSVPing -* ***[https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/523578875/Group_Rules/](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/523578875/Group_Rules/)***

################# **This hike is now FULL. If you missed it, we're repeating it on Saturday, February 7. Sign up via the link:** https://www.meetup.com/londonsocialhiking/events/312800438/ **We’ve created a list of [FAQs](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1e4VGmwhurmCng2cY3ZJHOS4j9ZlWKaX1/view?usp=sharing) to help answer your questions.** ################# We’re off to Norfolk! The seals in Norfolk are truly one of Britain's most special sights. Without any doubt, they're an incredible WOW factor and one that you must see! On this day hike, we'll walk along the top of the sand dunes and enjoy stunning panoramic views across the North Sea. On our way, we'll pass the much-loved grey seal colony at Horsey Beach, which draws thousands of visitors each year, **particularly between November and March**, when the seals come ashore to breed. There are literally hundreds and hundreds of seals and their pups stretching for as far as the eye can see! The whole walk is in the Broads National Park – one of fifteen national parks in the UK. You'll discover its iconic windmills, navigable waterways and broads (man-made, shallow lakes). With over 125 miles of lock-free waterways, the Norfolk Broads have more miles of waterway than Venice or Amsterdam, and are an extremely popular boating holiday destination! Locals like to call the Broads “the Venice of the East”. 💪 This walk is **suitable for all abilities** – it is almost entirely flat and done at a very gentle pace to allow us enjoy the nature and take plenty of pictures. **HIKE HIGHLIGHTS** * Watch seals and their young from a close distance at Horsey Gap, home to one of the biggest colonies of grey seals in Britain. * Take a gentle stroll over the vast open expanse of the golden sand dunes of Winterton Beach – a Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest. The area is a veritable haven for birds and all kinds of wildlife and is widely regarded as having the best sand dunes in Norfolk. * See the spectacular Horsey Windpump – the youngest and largest windpump in the Norfolk Broads. It was built in 1912 to pump water out from the surrounding land so that it could be used for farming. * Discover Horsey Mere, often regarded as one of the most beautiful of the northern broads and famous for its internationally important wildlife. * Walk the newly opened stretch of the England Coast Path – a new National Trail around all of England's coast, which once completed will be the longest coastal walking route in the world (4,500 kilometres in length!). **DISTANCE & DIFFICULTY** Distance: 6 miles (10km). Ascent: 50m. Difficulty: [Easy](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BMjvqhAAdSeCdyzLPHs0z04_e2TiKdci/view). **ITINERARY** **07:45** Meet outside ibis London City – Shoreditch Hotel, 5 Commercial St, E1 6BF (near Aldgate East Station) **08:00** Sharp departure **11:15** Horsey Windpump to Hemsby hike via Winterton-on-Sea for a lunch stop **16:30** Departure **19:30** London, next to Bow Road Underground Station **TRANSPORT** As on most of our trips, we'll travel in a comfortable 16-seater minibus. **SAFETY** This hike is led by an experienced, Outdoor First Aid qualified hike leader. **BOOKING** Please RSVP and pay by bank transfer to the account below, leaving your Meetup name and the name of the trip as a reference (e.g. John Seals): Business Account Name: London Social Hiking Limited Sort Code: 20-17-20 Account Number: 63116514 We'll let you know by changing your status to “Paid” as soon as the payment is cleared. You can check your status next to your name in the [attendees list](https://www.meetup.com/londonsocialhiking/events/312442943/attendees) of the event. Please allow up to 24 hours for the payment to arrive. **THE PRICE OF £78 INCLUDES** * Transport throughout the trip * Experienced, professional PSV minibus driver * Guiding on all hiking routes by an experienced and qualified Lowland Leader * Professional event organisation * Group first aid kit with qualified first aiders * Admin fee * 20% VAT **THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** * Personal insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects, and personal trekking insurance) **HOW TO CONTACT US** For all enquiries, please PM Anna (the main organiser) via Meetup. Alternatively, you can email us at info@lshiking.co.uk We'll usually get back to you within 4 hours. Your guide will be Lily (07450435289, only for use during the hike). Please get in touch if you have any difficulty locating the meeting point or need help during the trip. **WHAT TO BRING** * Suitable hiking shoes with ankle support * Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers or a poncho (if there is a chance of rain) * Gloves/hat/cap * Water (min 1L) * Packed lunch **REVIEWS ⭐** We have hosted over 600 events on Meetup and received an incredible number of positive reviews from our community. We’re proud to have achieved an **average event rating of 4.8 out of 5**. Please keep sharing your feedback – it helps us continue to improve and make every trip even better! **JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA** This is where we share pictures from our events. Feel free to use for inspiration on where to go next! [Facebook group link](https://www.facebook.com/groups/220802492121957) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/london_social_hiking/) **REFUND POLICY** You can check our refund policy [here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ny-b2NmMzBlpCiKjzkqC2vJEisxlORpn/view?usp=drive_link).

Join us at Mayfield Tennis Club for a fun and friendly morning of doubles tennis! All ages and most playing standards are welcome, just ensure that you’re above beginner standard and have played doubles or singles before. We play on our outdoor astroturf courts and you’ll enjoy your game within our relaxed and social atmosphere. Coming on your own? perfect, most people do, we make sure everyone gets paired up in a no stress skill level and you will be rallying and laughing with new friends by the end of the first set. After tennis, you are more than welcome to stay for a drink and a chat in our clubhouse and bar! It’s a great way to meet your fellow tennis players, an opportunity to play regularly and become a part of our wonderful diverse community. We usually have a minimum of 8 club members playing every week, so you’re guaranteed a game. Tennis balls are provided, just bring along your racquet. Need to borrow a racquet? No worries, just drop me a message on the chat and I’ll organise that for you. Look out for the Mayfield Club sign at the entrance of the drive way. **Payment** The two hour session costs £7 per head, for payment please follow the link, join the game and pay: [https://sportas.co.uk/organiser/north-london-social-doubles-tennis-n13/game](https://sportas.co.uk/organiser/north-london-social-doubles-tennis-n13/games). Come for the tennis, stay and socialise with our lovely community here at Mayfield. On the behalf of everyone at our club, we can’t wait to meet you!

**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!** FOR MORE INFO VISIT: [https://www.meetup.com/backabush/events/306401149/](https://www.meetup.com/backabush/events/306401149/)

**📈 Grade: 🥾🥾🥾 Level 3/5 (Moderate)** ... Join us for a leisurely *(5 to 5.5km/h walking speed)* winter walk following the North Downs Way from Dorking to Guildford, a route rich in history, scenery, and quiet countryside. Beginning in Dorking, we first follow a section of the ancient Pilgrims Way. While today it is a peaceful gravel track, in 1170 this route carried medieval pilgrims travelling from Winchester to Canterbury Cathedral to visit the shrine of Thomas Becket following his martyrdom. Soon, the trail climbs onto the North Downs Way, leading us into tranquil woodland paths with occasional viewpoints opening out across the surrounding landscape. The steady ascent is rewarding rather than strenuous, easing us into the rhythm of the walk. We continue through West Hanger and Netley Park, where shaded woodland, birdsong, and winter wildlife create a calm and immersive atmosphere. These quieter sections offer a welcome contrast to the open ridges and invite a slower pace. Our lunch stop is at West Hanger, where picnic tables are available and there is the option to purchase a hot drink from the kiosk. It is an ideal place to rest, refuel, and enjoy the peaceful setting. Refreshed, we continue on toward Newlands Corner, a much-loved beauty spot offering panoramic views, a café, toilets, and open picnic areas. This is another excellent pause point to take in the wide Surrey Hills scenery. Leaving Newlands Corner, the path crosses Albury Downs before climbing steadily to St Martha’s Hill. At the summit, the historic hilltop church and sweeping views over the North Downs and Tillingbourne Valley provide one of the most memorable highlights of the day. From here, we descend toward Guildford across Pewley Down, a beautiful stretch of open chalk downland with far-reaching views and a real sense of space. It is one of the finest viewpoints along the southern edge of the North Downs and a fitting approach into town. Our journey concludes at Guildford Castle, with time to explore the historic surroundings, wander into the town centre, and optionally round off the day with a celebratory drink at one of Guildford’s welcoming local pubs, including an optional visit to **[Wetherspoons](https://w3w.co/mostly.deputy.mutual)** in the town centre. ... 📍**MEETING POINT OPTION 1** **[Lonon Group Travel]:** **Outbound:** Buy a single ticket from London Waterloo to Dorking Main: £5.25 (£7.90 without Network Railcard or group discount) **Return:** Buy a single ticket from Guildford to London Waterloo: £11.75 (£17.70 without Network Railcard or group discount) Total travel cost for the day from Central London: about £17. AdrianB will be at the meeting point to act as a focal point for the group. * 08:00 **[London Waterloo ticket office](https://w3w.co/march.loose.loving)** * 08:10 Leave the ticket office and board the train * 08:23 Train departs London Waterloo * 09:18 Train arrives at Dorking Main ... 📍 **MEETING POINT OPTION 2 (Hike Start Location)**: * 09:20 **[Dorking Main railway station](https://w3w.co/wasp.manliness.bake)** ... 🚶 **WALK STARTS**: * 09:35 Dorking Main railway station * We will await a 09:32 train to arrive in Dorking from the south ... 🏁 **WALK FINISHES**: * About 16:00 to 17:00 Guildford town centre \|\| **[Guildford Railway Station](https://w3w.co/abode.begun.closes)** (depends on group pace) ... **✅ WHO CAN JOIN:** 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Adults aged 21 and over 👶 No children 🐾 No pets (allergies and phobias) ... **⚠️TRAVEL NOTICE 17 JAN 2026:** On 17 January 2026, there will be a bus replacement service operating between Guildford and Dorking due to **[rail engineering](https://www.southwesternrailway.com/plan-my-journey/planned-improvements/planned-engineering-works?year=2026&month=1)**. Please take this into consideration when planning travel, particularly if you are arriving by car or relying on return trains from Guildford back to Dorking. ... 🚂 **RETURN TRAINS TO LONDON**: Trains back to London Waterloo (fast): 16:49, 17:00, 17:19, 17:49 (back in London within about 35 minutes). Additional trains run back to Dorking Deepdene ... 🍔 **LUNCH**: Our lunch stop is at West Hanger, where picnic tables are available and there is the option to purchase a hot drink from the kiosk. It is an ideal place to rest, refuel, and enjoy the peaceful woodland setting. ... 🌳 **TOILETS**: * Discreet nature stops * Newlands Corner Visitor Centre * Guildford ... **👣 STAYING TOGETHER:** Please keep others in sight and avoid straying too far ahead or behind. If you are at the front, pause at junctions. If you are at the back, stay close enough to see someone ahead. It is everyone’s responsibility to help keep the group together. We will stop periodically, usually at junctions, to regroup, rest, and reconnect. Please try to keep the group leader within your line of sight whenever possible. ... ⚠️ **TERRAIN, CONDITIONS AND DIFFICULTY**: * Distance: \~23 km (14 miles) * Difficulty: Moderate * Total ascent/descent: 529 m / 543 m * Maximum/minimum elevation: 222 m / 34 m * Estimated duration: \~6 hours (including breaks) * Walking speed: About 5 to 5.5 km/h on flat terrain. A steady, comfortable pace suitable for conversation; not a Sunday stroll, but not an endurance pace either. * Terrain: A few short, steep ascents and descents on uneven paths. Mostly flat woodland trails, with sandy and gravel tracks and some quiet country lanes. Not particularly strenuous overall. After rain, expect some mud, slippery muddy sections, and a few chalky stretches underfoot. ... 🎒**WHAT TO BRING**: * Packed lunch and snacks * At least 2 L of water * Sturdy hiking boots * Layers and waterproof clothing * Sun protection / winter gear (as appropriate) * Any personal medication and a basic first aid kit * Fully charged phone and power bank * Head torch ... 📅 **RSVP POLICY**: Please RSVP only if you can attend, and update your response if your plans change. Repeated no-shows or late cancellations may limit future sign-ups. On the day, we will check in with attendees individually. Anyone who does not arrive will be marked as a no-show. ... 📞 **CONTACT**: Message the event host **AdrianB** directly via Meetup with any questions. ... ⚠️ **DISCLAIMER**: By joining, you confirm that you’ve read and accepted the group policy on the About page. You are responsible for your own safety, and neither the host nor the group can be held liable for injury, loss, or damage.

We are lucky enough to have the brilliant Richard Barnett as a LoMAZ Member, who has generously offered us to lead one of his epic history Walks. A medic by original training and author and speaker by trade. [https://richardbarnettwriter.com/about_me/](https://richardbarnettwriter.com/about_me/) Aimed at regular LoMAZ attendees for the moment! Please join us for….. More than three hundred thousand people work in the Square Mile each day, but their numbers are dwarfed by the dead beneath their feet. London is a great city of the departed, its oldest districts – Holborn, Fleet Street, the ancient City itself – built on two thousand years of bodies, bones and dust. From murderers dancing the hempen jig at Newgate to plague victims dumped in mass graves at Charterhouse Square, *Last Rites* tells the shockingly lively story of London’s nameless dead and their part in the making of the modern city. **RAIN OR SHINE -** **MEET DETAILS:** 12:45: Meet Close to Holborn Tube (exact location tbc) ***1.00pm: Walk commences - on time. If you’re late You’ll be able to follow the group on our location pin on whatsapp event group, but we’ll not be answering messages, so we can enjoy the walk ourselves!*** **3.00pm: Walk concludes close to St Paul’s Tube** Just after - head to a pub for a social very close by (Pub details to be be provided in the whatsapp group only). If we can make sure Richard doesn't need to put his hand in his pocket all evening, please, as he’s running this as a freebie for us, if you can! **TICKETS:** **No tickets needed for this event, but numbers are limited on meetup. Please, please, can we ask that you don't placehold for this event !** **GETTING THERE:** TUBE - Holborn, Tottenham Court Road TRAIN - Elizabeth Line to Tottenham Court Road. BUSES - Lots around Holborn. Please see TFL journey planner for help. **EVENT WHATSAPP GROUP:** please join the event WhatsApp group to help you find the group on the day. Link: tbc the week before in the chat for ‘attendees’ only. If you are on the **waitlist**, please join the whatsapp group ONLY if/once space frees up and you are moved to the 'going' list. Please let us know if your Whatsapp name is different from your Meetup name, otherwise we'll assume you are a spammer, and not accept your request to join the group. *Joining this WhatsApp group will make your phone number visible to other members in the group.* **IMPORTANT NOTES:** **\*This is a standing event, where we'll move around on a guided walking, stopping at various spots for 2 Hours. It's a longey! Please be aware of this before RSVP ing ! Personally, I'll be bringing one of those museum seat things as we go around!** \*Please take responsibility for yourself around street furniture as we move as we'll be in public spaces, with lumps, other people outside of our group etc. * LoMAZ events are run by volunteers. We have an attendee limit to help the host manage the event. We prefer a smaller, friendlier group. * If the event is Sold Out, Meetup adds you to the Waitlist. If someone drops out, waitlisted attendees are automatically moved to the 'Going' list by Meetup in order of priority. * **If you can no longer attend please change your RSVP to 'Not Going' as soon as possible.** This lets someone on the waitlist take your place. **We remove members from the LoMAZ Meetup group who:** * **RSVP as ‘Going' but then do not show up three times in a row.** * **RSVP as ‘Going' but then change their RSVP to 'No' five times in a row.** * **Have not RSVPd to the event, but turn up anyway (or a combination of the above).** **Thank you! – The LoMAZ Admin Team** Image Credit: Historical Image - source not needed.

**History** The Columbus Museum of Art traces its roots to 1878, when it was founded as the Columbus Gallery of Fine Arts, becoming the first art museum chartered in Ohio. A group of civic leaders established it to bring touring exhibitions and build a public collection. In 1887, it merged with the Columbus Art School (now CCAD) fostering a long partnership in arts education. Initially without a permanent home, the museum operated from temporary spaces until 1919, when art patron Francis C. Sessions deeded his Victorian mansion on East Broad Street to house the growing institution. As collections expanded in the early 20th century, the need for a dedicated building became clear. The Sessions mansion was demolished, and a new Italian Renaissance Revival structure was erected on the same site, opening to the public in 1931. This elegant building, with its grand steps and arches, remains the museum's core today and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1992. Key early acquisitions, like the Ferdinand Howald Collection of modernist works, helped establish its focus on American and European art. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the museum evolved significantly. It added the Ross Wing in 1974 for exhibitions and renamed itself the Columbus Museum of Art in 1978 during its centennial. A major renovation and expansion completed in 2015 introduced the Margaret M. Walter Wing and Center for Creativity, emphasizing interactive experiences. In 2018, the donation of the Pizzuti Collection and its Short North building expanded the museum's reach into contemporary art, solidifying its role as a dynamic cultural hub. The Columbus Museum of Art boasts a strong collection of late 19th- and early 20th-century European modern art, featuring well-known masters like Claude Monet, whose Impressionist landscapes capture light and atmosphere in ways familiar to many. Visitors can also encounter works by Henri Matisse, renowned for his bold use of color, and Edgar Degas, famous for his graceful depictions of ballerinas and everyday scenes. The museum's early Cubist holdings include pieces by Pablo Picasso, offering glimpses into his revolutionary fragmented style that reshaped modern art. On the American side, the collection highlights iconic figures such as Edward Hopper, whose evocative paintings of urban solitude and quiet American life are widely recognized, and Norman Rockwell, celebrated for his heartfelt illustrations of everyday Americana that have appeared on countless magazine covers. These accessible works by household-name artists provide an inviting entry point for those new to art museums, blending European innovation with distinctly American storytelling. **Summary** For this event, we will tour the [Columbus Museum of Art](https://www.columbusmuseum.org/), which is always free on Sundays. Afterward, we will head over to the nearby, highly-rated, and popular Gemüt Biergarten for drinks and food. Columbus's art museum is not large, and we won't need to rush through in order to see everything. However, it's a little windy (with a long "i") and maze-like in spots, and if you've never gone through it before, it can be a little confusing at first. **Tickets and Pricing** The Museum is free on Sundays. **Parking** The short answer here is that you can park for free (in the Safe Auto lot) when you visit the Museum on weekends. The longer answer is that the Museum has a dedicated parking lot, whose entrance and exit are on E Gay St, just north of Broad St. You can see this parking lot [here on Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Columbus+Museum+Of+Art+Parking/@39.9648853,-82.9882364,18.67z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x883888d20177f111:0xbf595a71d9d8c8c5!2sColumbus+Museum+of+Art!8m2!3d39.9642074!4d-82.9878972!16zL20vMDM0Z3F6!3m5!1s0x883888d21f05e00f:0xb72a56e4ac2d4fba!8m2!3d39.9651763!4d-82.9881746!16s%2Fg%2F11f3pdx3tx?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTIwOS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D). This parking has normally been $7, unless you buy something either in the Museum's gift shop or café, in which case it's $5 (you have to bring your receipt to the Museum's front desk to get this discount). However, the Museum is currently in the process of upgrading their parking lot's intercom (or some such), and until such time as this is completed, parking in this lot is free. Once this upgrade is complete, though, the charge is likely to increase from $7 to $10. This upgrade is supposed to be done by the time we run this event, but given how these things work, I wouldn't be totally surprised if it's not complete by then. You'll know the lot is free if the gate arms to both the entrance and exit are fixed in a raised position when you arrive. However, there's a large parking lot for Safe Auto on the other side of N Washington Ave, between Boone St and Hutton Pl. You can see this parking lot [here on Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'54.4%22N+82%C2%B059'13.9%22W/@39.9651069,-82.9884087,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.965105!4d-82.987191?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTIwOS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D). Visitors to the Museum may always park for free in this lot on weekends. **The End of History** After completing our dissertation in [Art Appreciation](https://www.facebook.com/groups/879880336006462/posts/1734229683904852/), we'll head over to the highly-rated [Gemüt Biergarten](https://www.gemutbiergarten.com/) for [drinks and food](https://www.gemutbiergarten.com/#full-menu). The brewery is located in [Olde Towne East](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Olde+Towne+East,+Columbus,+OH/@39.9600896,-82.9935095,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883888c29b9d98cb:0x55fc96810facc832!8m2!3d39.9579938!4d-82.9761254!16s%2Fm%2F026vlz4?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTIwOS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D), and its actual address is [734 Oak St, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/734+Oak+St,+Columbus,+OH+43205/@39.9633755,-82.9808618,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883888c53426d289:0x4aec638d8a5195d4!8m2!3d39.9633755!4d-82.9808618!16s%2Fg%2F11c4wy250w?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTIwOS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D). Gemüt Biergarten has a free parking lot that isn't small but also isn't huge. Street parking, however, is always free across 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), so I think we'll be okay with parking. The bigger issue may be the weather. The brewery has a good-sized outdoor patio that is covered and heated in the winter. However, that doesn't mean this patio will be warm. The inside of the brewery is "okay-sized," but again, the brewery is popular and by the time we get there, we may have no choice but to sit outside. If it's cold, I can and will ask them to fire up some of their additional outdoor heaters, which I think should be enough, but please bring something to keep you warm just in case we end up outside. Finally, while food at the Biergarten can be a little overpriced, in my experience it is excellent, and you are likely to enjoy whatever you get. We should be there by 1:00 if you can't make the Museum and just want to meet us for drinks.

**To Be Announced!**

**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.

*GOhio!* turns 8!! 🥳 Come celebrate with us at [Pins Mechanical](https://www.pinsbar.com/locations/easton)! 😄 **Summary** Pins Mechanical Co. is a social entertainment venue that combines old-school games like duckpin bowling, pinball, and other classic arcade and table games with craft cocktails, local beers, and punch. The vintage-industrial atmosphere is designed for playful, face-to-face gatherings with friends, family, and colleagues, offering a casual and lively alternative to a typical bar. Pins' Easton location spans over 38,000 square feet, making it the largest in the United States. This massive entertainment venue features two floors, a mezzanine level with stadium seating, and three full-service bars. It offers 16 duckpin bowling lanes, two indoor bocce courts, and more than 60 classic and modern pinball and arcade games. For additional fun, the location is known for its two outdoor patios, an indoor slide, and an expanded patio pong setup. **Activities** As noted below, some machines take actual quarters. Pins has two change machines (one downstairs and one upstairs) that accept ones, fives, or tens (only), and return quarters (only). * *Duckpin Bowling* [Like Bowling](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duckpin_bowling) but with smaller balls, stubby pins, and no oil on the lanes. The cost is $9 per game per person. * *Pinball* [Who](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Who)'s a [wizard](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinball_Wizard) on these [retro machines](https://pinballmap.com/map/?by_location_id=15311)? At $1 per play, everyone! Takes quarters. * *Arcade* Play classics like Gorf, Pac-Man, Gorf, Donkey Kong, Gorf, Galaga, and Gorf! The best part is, there's Gorf! And all the arcade games are free! * *Patio Pong* The classic college party staple but bigger. Instead of tossing a ping pong ball into cups, you use a regular ball and oversized buckets. There are two of these upstairs, and they're both free! * *Ping Pong* The most popular sport in China! They have two ping pong tables downstairs and two more ping pong tables upstairs. For those of you who have studied topological spaces and set theory, you will know this means they have four total ping pong tables. They have bubble gum dispensers with ping pong balls in them for 25¢ each. The dispensers take quarters. However, they also have racks where they store the ping pong paddles, and in these racks are slots for ping pong balls. It's not uncommon to see balls already here, so there's a chance you may be able to play ping pong for free if you want to. * *Hookie* You can't put your eye out! The safe alternative to darts: Hook thrown rings on a board. Outdoors on the upstairs patio, and free! * *Bocce* Like bowling, except there’s turf and a lot more balls. You can also knock your opponent’s balls out of the way. There are two of these upstairs, and they're both free! * *Foosball* Everyone loves [foosball](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Table_football)! 50¢ a game. Takes quarters. * *Giant Jenga* Stack massive wooden blocks into a tower, then take turns pulling out one block at a time without collapsing the tower. There are four of these sprinkled throughout the venue (two downstairs and two upstairs, with one on each patio), and they're all free! * *Skeeball* There are three skeeball machines on the first floor (near the Gorf machine!), and they're all free! * *Giant Connect Four* On the outdoor patio upstairs, and free! * *Bubble Hockey* This is upstairs. Up to four people can play at once, and it costs $1. Takes quarters. * *Cornhole* There are two cornhole lanes upstairs, and they're both free! * *Basketball* There are two basketball machines downstairs. They're tucked behind the downstairs bar, so they're not always obvious unless you go look for them. They're $2 per play, and they take quarters. * *NES and Sega Genesis video games* These are collections, downstairs (near the Gorf machine!), of video games that you can play for free! * *The Big Metal Indoor Slide* This large two-story slide is for kids, and certainly no adults would ride this. After all, it's not like it's free or anything. **Outdoor Patio** Pins at Easton actually has two outdoor patios. But for our purposes, only the upstairs one matters. See, it will be winter and likely cold. But their upstairs patio has multiple ceiling heaters and two massive gas fire pits that put out a ton of heat. Sitting out here may be a real option. As mentioned above, the upstairs outdoor patio has one of the venue's two Patio Pong setups, one of their multiple Giant Jengas, the Giant Connect Four, and Hookie. **Food** Pins doesn't serve food, but there's a [Mikey's Late Night Slice](https://www.latenightslice.com/) next door. This Mikey's is basically an extension of the Easton Pins; there's a large open doorway between both establishments. Mikey's has a fountain dispenser with Coke products. You can also get Coke and Diet Coke (but not Coke Zero, like you can at Mikey's) at the bars in Pins, but I think the quality of the soda pop from Mikey's fountain is better than that from the bar hoses Pins uses to dispense soft drinks. You are also quite allowed at Pins to either bring food in or order it in via your favorite delivery app. **Parking** I recommend parking in the [Worth Garage](https://eastontowncenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/parking-at-easton-updated-file-sept-25.pdf). It's literally right next door to Pins, and it's free as long as you park on Level 2 or above. They recently started charging people to park on Level 1, and you pay for parking on this level the same way you pay for street parking in Columbus, with the [ParkColumbus](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.parkmobile.parkcolumbus&hl=en_US&pli=1) app. I've seen them enforce this by ticketing people's cars, but I don't know how they actually compel payment. The garage is not a public street that actual cops can write you tickets for parking illegally on. If you have an actual ticket from a cop that you don't pay, they can go so far as to issue a warrant for your arrest. But all Easton has, seemingly, is, "[Please pay our ticket](https://eastonpreferredpark.com/)." Still, in my ongoing efforts to eliminate needless stress and aggravation from my life, I just park above the first Level. The actual address of the garage is [4049 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4049+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388a86de3af559:0xc1dc8b4661fc834f!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11sgzjp4ml?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). However, your GPS is stupid. The actual entrances to the garage are on the cross steets Brighton Rose Way and Fenlon St, not Worth Ave. Just keep this in mind once you get to the garage. **Where we'll meet** I'll post in the comments where I am. People will obviously want to explore different areas of the venue over the course of the event (and there's a lot to explore), but please just let me know (as in, come find me) once you've arrived. **Peroration** Come on out and say hi! 😄

❄️ **Spare Yourself a Boring Winter - Bowl With Us!** Avoid social hibernation this winter, join our **6-week social bowling league** starting in January! Whether you're looking to unwind after work, meet new people, or just have a fun night out with pals, this league is perfect for everyone! Chill times, cold drinks, and plenty of chances to connect with others. No matter your skill level, this league is all about having fun and meeting new friends. **;)** **🗓 Thursday evenings \|📍 AMF Sawmill Lanes \| 💵 $74 w/ code MUCOW26** **💻 League Info & Registration**: https://bit.ly/ColumbusBowling **Why Join?** 🎉 It’s only 6 weeks - perfect for a low-commitment social plan 🍻 Great mix of people in their 20s-40s, plus post-game hangs at the bar 🎳 Zero pressure - gutter balls totally welcome! 👕 Free league shirt if you sign up early 🧠 Weekly trivia w/ prizes 💬 Super social - join solo or w/ friends! **Want in?** Join our Meetup team Here for the Beer 👉 **Click here to join** https://tinyurl.com/2559lb7t Or start a team of your own with a few friends - we’ll all be hanging out either way! 📅 League Dates (Thursday evenings): Jan 22, Jan 29, Feb 5, Feb 12, Feb 19, Feb 26 ***(The MeetUp event date is deadline to register for the league.)*** **Cost & What’s Included:** ✔ $74 with discount code MUCOW26 ✔ 6 weeks of bowling (1–3 games/week) ✔ Shoe rentals & full league setup ✔ Trivia, prizes, and great people 👉 **SIGN UP NOW** 💻League Info & Registration: https://bit.ly/ColumbusBowling 🤑Use promo code MUCOW26 to save $20 📸 Follow the fun on Instagram: https://bit.ly/BowlingLeague-IG 📩 Questions? Contact the league: http://bit.ly/2nKHno7 Spots are filling fast – don’t miss out on the fun times!

8pm. After Pickle this week - let’s hit Land Grant Brewing 424 W Town St, Columbus. For a little social time. I’m also creating a WhatsApp for our group. See Me (Mark) or Private Message me through the Meetup App to join. COLUMBUS RECREATION CENTERS require membership fee to play. Register & Pay at the desk when you arrive. $5 day pass is available. I have some extra pickle ball paddles and balls if you don’t have one. Definitely bring your own paddle if you have one and bring some balls if you have them. Legal Stuff: The event hosts/Organizers are just fellow member volunteers. By participating in any event, you assume all risks of liability and injury inherent in these activities. You are responsible for your own safety and for determining if you are in condition fit to participate. You are also responsible for knowing and abiding by all laws and rules during your participation in any event.
 Photos & or Video: by attending these events you acknowledge photos and or video may be taken and used on this and other platforms.