Kayaking

A great way to experience kayaking or canoeing on the Thames as a first timer or newish paddler, with [Edge Progressive Paddling](https://edgepaddling.com/). The session will be led by a very experienced Coach who will keep you safe and provide instruction. Meet at the Kew Bridge arches (Brentford side - see map). We will paddle upstream with the tide, along the beautiful section of the river besides Kew Gardens and Syon Park. We will take a break in Old Isleworth while the tide turns and return with the tide to Kew Bridge. Approximate total distance is 4 miles or 6.5KM. Optional social in the pub afterwards. Boat, paddle & buoyancy aid will be provided. Dress for the weather: man-made fibres that don't hold water, an extra layer for the pub stop, waterproof if it looks like rain; for your feet closed toe shoes that you don't mind getting muddy e.g. old trainers, wetsuit boots or water shoes. You may get a bit wet so bring a change of clothing and shoes for afterwards. Changing facilities are available at the arches - arrive a little early please if you need to change beforehand. Cost £20. The cost of the taster session can be discounted from [annual membership](https://edgepaddling.com/membership/) if you join the club. Please arrive promptly or you may literally miss the boat. All participants must be able to swim. For more information on the club see [our website](https://edgepaddling.com/) and [facebook group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/edgepaddling/).

We will be meeting at The Racketeer! We will divide into smaller groups to discuss this month's book. It will be very obvious when you arrive to the pub, where our group is, but please feel free to give me a call if you are struggling to find us. For new members, shoot me a message on meetup and I will send through my phone number!

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 12 miles (20km) • Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 240m • Hiking time: 5.5 to 6 hours • Cost: £32 (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 lunch stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: Waterloo station. Meet under the main central clock - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Waterloo.jpg) & [photo](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/WaterlooClock.jpg) of the clock • Time: Meet 8am, leave 8:20am for the 8:36am train • Return: 7:01pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Explore the romantic **ruins of Waverley Abbey** (founded in 1128) • Visit **Tilford village green** — a picture-postcard cricket green flanked by medieval bridges • See an **800-year-old oak tree** with an 8m girth • Step inside **Mother Ludlam’s Cave**, legendary home of the White Witch • Visit the **Bourne Woods filming location** used in Gladiator, Harry Potter, War Horse and 20+ other films • Follow woodland and riverside trails along the **River Wey** • Discover hidden gems near **Farnham**, a historic Georgian market town 🥾 **Hike Description** Our journey begins in the Georgian market town of **Farnham**, with its history spanning nearly 1,000 years. From here we follow woodland trails to **Mother Ludlam’s Cave**, once said to be the home of the White Witch of Waverley. Passing the grand **Moor Park House**, we reach the evocative ruins of **Waverley Abbey**, England’s first Cistercian monastery founded in 1128, and the nearby **Waverley Abbey House**, set beside a tranquil lake. The trail then brings us to **Tilford village**, a picture-perfect English setting with a cricket pitch, riverside pub, and two medieval stone bridges across the **River Wey**. Continuing on, we pass an **800-year-old oak tree** of remarkable size and a nearby farm where pigs — and often piglets — can be seen in the fields. Next we enter the **Bourne Woods**, an enchanting mix of heathland and coniferous forest. Here we actually pass through **specific filming locations** used in *Gladiator, Robin Hood, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, War Horse* and more than 20 other films. Walking these paths, you’ll stand where legendary battle scenes and cinematic moments were filmed. We return to **Farnham** to complete the circuit, finishing a hike rich in history, folklore and cinematic scenery — a trail through time that captures the very best of Surrey’s countryside. 🧭 **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

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 14 miles (22km) • Grading: [Intermediate/Challenging](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 470m • Hiking time: 5.5 to 6.5 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 lunch stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: IMPORTANT - London Bridge station has several levels, please check the map below before you leave home and also arrive at least 10 minutes early to get to the meeting point. London Bridge station. Meet upstairs (top floor - so go up the escalators) between WHSmith (no 15) and M&S (no 16) - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LondonBridge.jpg) & [PHOTO1](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LondonBridgePhoto1.jpg), [PHOTO2](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LondonBridgePhoto2.jpg) • Time: Meet 8am, leave 8:20am for the 8:35am train • Return: 6:05pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Walk beneath the **Ouse Valley Viaduct**, a Victorian masterpiece of 11 million bricks with its “never-ending” arches • Pass the **Millennium Seedbank**, the world’s largest wild plant seed collection with 1.9 billion seeds • Enjoy **ice creams or hot drinks at Ardingly Reservoir**, home to abundant birdlife • Hike scenic **wooded trails of the Sussex Weald** • Visit **Ardingly Reservoir**, holding 5 billion litres of fresh water • See the historic **Wakehurst Place**, a 16th-century mansion with National Trust gardens • Discover the tranquil hidden gem of **Balcombe Lake** 🥾 **Hike Description** Our hike begins from the rural station of **Balcombe**, leading us straight into the rolling fields and wooded trails of West Sussex. The highlight comes early as we pass under the spectacular **Ouse Valley Viaduct**, often described as the most beautiful viaduct in England. Built in 1841 at a cost of £38,500, its 37 arches and 11 million imported bricks create a striking and photogenic landmark — a perfect stop for photos beneath its “never-ending” symmetry. From here, our route continues through gentle countryside to the wide expanse of **Ardingly Reservoir**, which holds an incredible 5 billion litres of fresh water. Its banks are home to a wide variety of birdlife, and we pause here for refreshments, with the chance to grab an ice cream or hot drink. The trail then leads us onwards through peaceful woodland paths and open fields, reaching the grounds of **Wakehurst Place**, a 16th-century mansion and today the most visited National Trust property in the country. Nearby sits the world-famous **Millennium Seedbank**, which holds 1.9 billion seeds from more than 75,000 species — the largest wild plant seed collection on Earth. We complete the circuit by returning through more wooded tracks to **Balcombe Lake**, a small and picturesque hidden gem nestled among the trees. This makes for a peaceful finale to a hike that combines Victorian engineering, rural beauty, and world-leading conservation. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [GRAHAM](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07796 098487 🍽️ **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

Join our **coastal walk** from **Birchington** to **Herne Bay** along scenic seaside paths. This relaxed journey takes you through picturesque **North Kent**, featuring **pebble beaches**, **wildflower meadows**, and **dramatic cliff-top views**. Whether you're in for a summer sea swim or a peaceful winter stroll, the route culminates in the **charming seaside town of Herne Bay**, where **delightful cafés** and a **vibrant maritime atmosphere** await. ### **Meeting Details:** * **Meeting Time:** Outside St Pancras Int station. We will be near the [IFO (Bird Cage)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/eoNg8Wox5kWk75eM6) * **Meeting Time:** 9:00 AM * **Estimated Return:** Approximately 8:30 PM to London * **Starting Point: Birchington station** * **Finishing Point:** [Herne Bay Station](https://maps.app.goo.gl/uav6V1mFLDHqpHk19 "Herne Bay Station") ### **Transport:** Regular trains from **London** to **Birchington** with **reliable connections** and **free parking** available if driving. ### **Route Highlights:** Enjoy a **scenic coastal walk** along North Kent’s **picturesque shoreline**, passing the **dramatic ruins of Reculver**—a **12th-century church** within a **Roman fort**. Stroll along **unspoilt shingle beaches** adorned with **wildflowers in summer**, and take in **breathtaking cliff-top views**. Opportunities for **sea swimming** and **wildlife sightings** during low tides complete this memorable route. * **Distance:** 14.0 km (approx.) * **Duration:** 5 h 35 min (average pace) * **Total Ascent:** 111 m * **Route Type:** One-way — Birchington Station to Herne Bay Station * **Difficulty:** Moderate (long distance, very gentle elevation) * **Terrain:** Coastal promenade, cliff-top path and beach sections * **Surfaces:** Mostly paved/firm paths; some shingle or firm wet sand (tide-dependent) * **Landmarks:** Westgate-on-Sea, Birchington, Reculver Towers, Herne Bay Pier **Notes:** Low tide lets us walk on firm sand and avoid shingle; at high tide expect more shingle. **Price**: £12 (without transport) If you’d like to include train tickets, please book directly on our website: https://www.hikinginlondon.co.uk/margate-to-herne-bay-coastal-walk-sat.html **Note:** Don’t worry if the attendee list looks small — we also sell tickets on other platforms and our website! Got questions? Call or text **Maria** at **07535 295739**.

The original Rare Groove Legends Boat Party returns June 26. A proven sell-out, unmatched vibes, the summer event everyone's taking about. We return for 2026! The Legends are back where they belong, sailing down the River Thames for another iconic night of musical nostalgia, rare, soul-stirring grooves and pure grown-folk energy. Expect a masterclass from our selectors as they take you back in time, blending the rare groove classics we all love with those long-forgotten gems that defined an era. And because this is the original Rare Groove Legends Boat Party, you already know what that means, the underplayed, the overlooked and the deep cuts will absolutely be getting their moment. This isn’t just a party. It’s a reunion. It’s a celebration of real music. It’s the boat party everyone talks about, and the one you don’t want to hear about second-hand. Rare Groove Legends Sunday 28 June 2026, sailing down the River Thames. - This meetup will go ahead with 3 or more confirmed attendees* https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/rare-groove-legends-boat-party-tickets-1980459814618?aff=ebdsshother&utm_share_source=listing_android&sg=bb39a1beb7f9f3138ea4f8f0724263a734d0b019e5d01dc0805d66f99aad78567032076c0e4410b298bb57b1cb5e6d3f21a8d19701d1887da9dd3a5546d8420d54173863f76cd5fcbe43c1222c23

Calling all ladies aged 25-59 in need of an amazing adventure to look forward to this summer… In June 2026, you could be exploring beautiful Bali, from iconic rice fields, magical temples, spiritual Ubud and Balinese villages to stunning tropical islands! 😀 Stay in fabulous accommodation of an excellent 3\* to 5\* standard (way above what other group tour companies offer!) from luxury resorts with stunning infinity swimming pools, beautiful wooden beach villas, traditional Balinese three storey huts amidst rolling rice fields and luxurious rooms overlooking the jungle with huge tubs perfect for Bali-style flower-filled baths! Visit stunning Balinese temples, take part in a sacred purification ceremony, explore the cultural heart of Bali in temple and art gallery-filled Ubud and its' sacred monkey forest. Hike through peaceful rice fields, traditional villages and visit a Balinese home. Explore the lava fields and epic views of distant volcanoes in an open top jeep. Try coconut wine fresh from a palm tree, watch hypnotic Balinese dance performances and be blown away by incredible coastlines and underwater treasures with island sightseeing and snorkelling in Nusa Penida and the Gili Islands! Travel in style with all transfers included, including to and from the airport, overland by private mini bus and boats between the islands. Travel with up to 14 like-minded women to enjoy this amazing adventure with and your very own, experienced tour leader to take care of everything! Everything has been designed to create an unforgettable experience and seamlessly organised so you don't have to worry about a thing - Mel has personally created the tour from her experience travelling around Bali and she has tried and tested everything to make sure it's amazing! So you can just explore, relax, enjoy and make new friends :-) Meet your group before you leave the UK and even fly out together if you like! Check out the website for a full itinerary, FAQs, tour requirements and loads more info, where you can book online with just a £295 deposit: https://www.travel-queen.co.uk/baliadventure If you would prefer to book over the phone, have a chat, or for any more information call our office on 07399 303859 or email Emily at emily@travel-queen.co.uk (P.S. please ignore the attendees listed here - our women join from all over the place (Facebook, website etc..) so what you see on meet up won't be accurate and we may well be nearly full! 😀) Best wishes, Mel & Emily @ the Travel Queen HQ!

Walking shoes , Mini speaker, water

**Introduction** In our busy city, it can be difficult to find time to slow down and smell the roses! Forest bathing offers you the chance to do just that. Over the course of 2 hours, you will be guided through a multi-sensory exploration of the natural world, giving you time to slow down, breathe, and find peace among the natural world. **What is forest bathing?** Forest bathing typically consists of slow walking, mindfulness practices, and resting (seated or lying down) in nature. Remember being a kid and just watching the branches overhead in the breeze? Originating in Japan in the 1980s, Shin-Rin Yoku or forest bathing, was created as a preventative response to climbing rates of stress in urban areas. Since then, many research studies have shown that even one hour a week spent engaging with nature can significantly reduce symptoms of stress. **What to expect:** * 2-hour duration * Small group size (maximum 6) * Multi-sensory activities * Sharing circle (optional) * Herbal tea offering * A guide to take care of you, so you can truly relax into the wonder of the natural world * Phone-free environment * Opportunity to chat and connect with others (if you would like to) * **Please note there are no toilets available** \- there are several cafes on Mile End Road with toilet facilities\. **What to bring:** * Warm clothes; even on a summer day, spending prolonged time in the shade can begin to feel chilly! * Shoes with a good grip, and that you don't mind getting dirty * A journal and pen * A mug (for tea if you fancy it!) * Any medications you might need, such as EpiPens or inhalers. **How much is it?** This experience is offered on a donation basis; this means you can decide what you can reasonably afford to give. To help you decide, we want to be transparent with our cost breakdown: * £8.50 - meets the recommended donation to Friends of THCP and contributes to important conservation work * £12 - covers the above and supports the guide at the minimum wage rate * £15-20 - pay it forward / supporter option. You are welcome to give less or more depending on your personal circumstances. **[Make a donation here](https://buy.stripe.com/14AfZg0Gn3qL9Dx86M2VG02)**. **About your guide:** Hello! I'm Lizzie, a life-long nature lover. Having been gifted the Kingfisher Concise Field Guide to Animals & Plants of Britain and Europe at the tender age of five, it's perhaps unsurprising that I am happiest outdoors! After several years as a geography teacher and data analyst, I began my studentship as a Forest Bathing Practitioner with Nature and Therapy in June 2025. I have experienced the medicinal influence of nature in my own life when I've struggled with burnout and grief; it's a gift I am keen to share with others. If you have any questions, please do reach out. I look forward to welcoming you! **What next?** Sign up! Then, you will receive a participation form by email with a couple of questions about health and safety; please try to respond before the event, so we can go straight to the trees! Your answers will help us to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone and are encrypted. Our GDPR policy is available on request.

Happy Sunday :)

**\*\*Current Group: 3 female, 2 male plus guide\*\*** Escape the city for a full day of adventure just outside London, where rolling hills, lush woodlands, and sweeping panoramas define the stunning **Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.** We’ll summit **Box Hill, Holmbury Hill, and Leith Hill**, linking them together on a beautiful trail through rolling hills, woodlands, and villages. Expect sweeping views, fresh country air, and a fun, sociable group vibe. It’s the perfect one-day adventure to stretch your legs, clear your head, and discover some of the South East’s best hiking right on London’s doorstep. *** **Trip Highlights** ✅ Summit **Box Hill, Holmbury Hill & Leith Hill** (highest point in Southeast England) ✅ Panoramic views across the South Downs, Weald, and even London on a clear day ✅ Walk through ancient woodlands, open heathland, and picturesque country villages ✅ Spot local wildlife, from buzzards soaring overhead to deer among the trees ✅ Fun, sociable group hike—perfect for city escapees! ✅ Easy train access from **London Waterloo** ✅ Join a small, fun and supportive group for a sociable day of outdoor adventure *** **Itinerary** * **7:30am:** Meet at London Waterloo, short train (≈1 hour) to the Surrey Hills. * Hike up **Box Hill**, enjoy sweeping views. * Continue to **Holmbury Hill** for lunch with Iron Age fort views. * Afternoon climb to **Leith Hill Tower**, the high point of Southeast England. * Return via forest trails & villages to catch the evening train back to London (expect to be back in London at around 9:30pm) *** **Key Info** * **Distance:** 36 km (22 miles) * **Difficulty:** Moderate – steady pace with hills, but no technical terrain * **Travel:** Return train from London Waterloo * **What to bring:** Hiking shoes/boots, water, snacks, packed lunch, layers/waterproofs This is a **full day adventure**—expect to return to London early evening, tired but happy! 🌳🏞️✨ *** We’ll handle the logistics, meeting you at the train station and guiding you along the route. You just bring your walking boots, daypack, and enthusiasm! No technical skills are required, though a reasonable level of fitness is needed for a full-day hike with some hills. *** **Cost: A full day out of London and in the Surrey Countryside for just £75** To join, simply RSVP and pay the £75 fee. We'll then be in contact with more details including specific logistics and kit list. **Included in the price:** * Return train travel from London Waterloo train station * Guided hiking by experienced and qualified guide with unparalleled knowledge of the nature in and around London **Not included in the price:** * Personal hiking kit * All food/drinks * Personal travel insurance \*\*\* *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***

Walk length 15miles/24km approx. Circular. A very scenic walk from Goring to Moulsford using a mixture of landscapes from woodland trails to river paths. The hike starts from the small Chiltern Town of Goring-on-Thames, which has many historic buildings dating back to the 16th century before entering Streatley across the river and exploring the Mousford Downs and the Thames path. The hike uses parts of a number of important national trails including the Ridgeway and the Thames Path. The Ridgeway is an ancient trail described by many as the oldest road in Britain and is about 87 miles long. The Thames Path follows the Thames River from its source near Kemble to the Thames Barrier at Charlton and is about 184 miles long. THIS IS A SUBSTANTIAL HIKE WITH A NUMBER OF HILL CLIMBS AS WELL AS FLATTER RIVER SECTIONS. Lunch and Finish Please bring a snack lunch and water for the walk. The walk should finish at about 5.30pm and include a 30 min snack lunch stop and pub at the end, however the time may be earlier or later than this depending on the weather and pace. Transport and meeting Meet Outside Goring and Streatley station for the hike to start at 10.37am (after the train from London arrives). By train: The 9.38am train from London Paddington gets to Goring and Streatley for 10.37am. I would suggest you meet from 9.10am next to the WHSmith shop at London Paddington to give you time to get a group save/buy tickets (see photo below). The organizer will not be catching the train from London but will meet you at Goring. £5 cash payable on the day guided walk & meetup costs. You can do paypal ([colin45@hotmail.co.uk](mailto:colin45@hotmail.co.uk)) please use friends and family with paypal to avoid charges. Bank transfer if you prefer, please contact the organizer. Train price should be approx. £20 return approx. with a groupsave or national railcard discount. Please make a note of the organizers numbers - Colin 07709305681. Walking Safety Walking is a great way to keep fit and generally very safe; however it does contain an element of risk. Before going on any of these walks you need to be reasonably fit and be prepared to be responsible for your own safety. You should wear appropriate clothing such as proper walking shoes, warm and wet weather clothing and carry sufficient food and water. Please see our Terms and Conditions (https://www.meetup.com/Escape-London-City-Explorers/pages/23195445/Terms_and_Conditions/) COULD EVERYONE PLEASE AVOID COMMENTS BELOW THAT ARE NOT SPECIFIC TO THE EVENT AS THIS GENERATES SPAM, JUST CHANGE YOUR RSVP IF YOU CAN'T GO. YOU CAN MESSAGE ME. MANY THANKS.