Non-Fiction Writing

**Write together with other writers. If you write more surrounded by others, I hope you'll join these new sessions.** Starting up regular Saturday sessions where we writers will gather to write in the same space. There will be plenty of time for you to push forward your own individual projects, but I can provide a writing prompt, short exercise or challenge to anyone who needs them. You can book a spot for a guest with your ticket if you want to bring a writing friend with you. They don't have to be a member of our group. Timing: From **12:30** grab a drink, a table and set up **12:35** individual writing time\* *\*if you'd like a prompt or writing exercise, please ask when you arrive.* **13:15** take a breath (stand up, stretch, look out window, tea, wine etc) **14:00** end of writing time **14:00** we'll gather at the same table to say hello, compare notes and how we got on with our projects in the session **14:45(ish)** end of session but you don't have to stop if you're mid-flow. If you want to stay on and keep writing, please do so. I'm hosting this in the main public area of the pub so you can come and go as you please. You can come to write for a short time or the whole thing. I've allowed two hours for the session but you can easily stay on longer if you wish. I will be there for 12pm when the pub opens to grab us the horseshoe of tables (pictured above) so most of us can be sitting in the same vicinity together. That said, it's a spacious pub so if you want to spread out and choose your own spot, feel free. Manners suggest that you'll buy a drink and perhaps a snack or two from the pub as a part of using their table. Please don't bring your own drinks from elsewhere (water bottles included) as the pub will never let us back in. See their menu on the website for more info. Location: The Square Pig, 30-32 Procter St, London WC1V 6NX. Closest tube is Holborn. Timing: Doors open 12pm for a 12:30pm start and we'll finish the main session by 3pm at the latest. Cost: £10 for hosting, venue arrangement, writing task prep etc. Please follow the steps to pay via PayPal when you RSVP. Refunds or credits will only be offered if the meetup is cancelled by admin. If you change your mind after booking, please change to RSVP to 'not going' as we often have people waiting. Download the Meetup app (check the app store) to manage your RSVPs on the go and be notified about new workshops. Questions or concerns? Please post a comment below and I'll respond. I'm looking forward to it already!

**SUMMARY (all info is approximate!)** **Distance**: 27.5km (17 miles) **Ascent:** 426m **Duration**: 7-8 hours walking (4km/hr) **Grade**: Energetic **HIGHLIGHTS** * Circular from Haddenham & Thame Parkway over rolling hills of western Aylesbury Vale * A delightful mix of woodlands, arable fields * Slow ascents and descents linking 4 hilltop villages on remote paths * Great views over 5 counties from hilltop village of Brill * Thatched roofs and quaint pubs along the way. This is a beautiful part of the Aylesbury Vale in Bucklnghamshire, with fantastic views, quaint villages, rolling hills, white cows and stallion horses. The morning will be filled with meandering over open fields and a bracing for a slow uphill hike to the top of the hill at Brill for a great views and a pub stop – bring sandwiches as we are stopping for refreshments only. In the afternoon, we will continue to another two villages of Ashendon and Nether Winchendon before we make our way back to Haddenham. At 27.5km, it will be a long and energetic day out – and you will discover countryside which is very different to the normal meetup hikes and rewarded with quaint pubs with thatched roofs - and of course, there is a pub in Haddenham for post hike drinks! *ps. My walks make time to enjoy the views, take in local history and have time for taking photos* **COST AND LOGISTICS** **Cost**: £10 **Start**: 8.30 Meet for a group save ticket **Meet:** 8:45 for those who buy their own tickets & walk to train **Finish:** 6pm in Haddenham for an optional pub visit. **Recommended morning train from London** **Dep**: 09:02 London Marylebone **Arr:** 09:41 Haddenham and Thame Parkway **Return** It is impossible to promise a specified finish train and time, but we aim to return to London from 18.06 (arrives at 18.45) or 18.17 (arrives 19.10), 19.06 (arrives 19.45) **Recommended train ticket** Off-Peak Day Return to Petersfield · **£22.60 group save/ network rail price** Recommended: Buy a yearly Network Railcard for reduced train prices www.network-railcard.co.uk **Meeting Point:** Marylebone Station - In front of timetable noticeboards **REVIEWS** [Trip Advisor](https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186338-d19994843-Reviews-AAA_Hiking_Outdoor_Group-London_England.html) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews) \| [MeetUp](https://www.meetup.com/aaa-outdoor-hiking-adventure-travel/feedback-overview/) **PRICE INCLUDES** · Guided hike planned and led by an experienced AAA leader, trained in Outdoor First Aid. **PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** · Travel costs · Lunch, drinks or any refreshments · PayPal fees **RECOMMENDED KIT LIST** [(](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)complete list[)](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist) · Suitable hiking shoes or boots · Packed lunch and snacks · Water - 2 litres recommended · Waterproof jacket and trousers (Please no jeans!) · Warm windproof layer e.g. Down/Primaloft/Fleece · Wicking base layer e.g. Polyester/Tencel/Merino **CANCELLING/REFUNDS** If you can no longer join the hike, please message the Host listed on here, and update your RSVP status to 'Not going', to allow others to take your place. If the hike is full, and you have messaged us and have changed your RSVP to 'Not going', we will refund you, less than the PayPal/Meetup fees. To obtain this, please email info@aaalondongroup.com **after the event**, with the email address you use on your PayPal account and transaction reference. If the hike is not full, unfortunately we will not be able to provide any refund. **QUESTIONS** If you have any other questions, please check visit our [FAQ page](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/frequently-asked-questions). If you are still unsure, contact the event Host shown on this page. We have operated over 1,000 events without significant incidents in the last ten years, achieved through meticulous planning. All participants (members and their guests) in any AAA Hiking event or activity are personally responsible for their fitness, safety and welfare, and must be equipped accordingly. If you have signed up for the event, you acknowledge and accept the AAA London Group Terms and Conditions. © AAA London Group Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted

A chance just to work in company on your writing, be it a book, blog, screenplay, dissertation, poem, song, coursework, memoir, play, journal, travel writing or work stuff. Newcomers always welcome. No one will see what you're writing or give you unsolicited advice. WE FILL THE ROOM, so you MUST SIGN UP below AND ARRIVE BY 11.40 at the latest, or we can’t guarantee you a seat. And if you can't make it CHANGE YOUR RSVP to "not going" ASAP to give someone else a chance, thanks. WHERE? FIFTH FLOOR CAFÉ, Floor 5, Waterstones, 203-206 Piccadilly, W1J 9LE TIMINGS:- 11.00 - Café starts serving 11:30 - Host of the day will be there. Say hello, especially if you’re new. 11.40 - Brief introductions for everybody - your name and what you’re working on 11:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 12:30 – Break, chat to your neighbours if you like 12:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 13:30 - The End…feel free to stay and keep writing or chat some more. Bring whatever you need to be able to write. It’s a café, there’s some noise so earbuds/headphones/earplugs are handy. There’s very few mains sockets so charged-up laptops are a good idea too. And please remember everybody, thank our venue by buying a drink or food, and don’t consume anything from outside while you're here. IF YOU ARRIVE AFTER 11.45 - everyone will be quiet and writing. If there's no spare places then there's sofas on the sales floors below as well as one cafe at the back of the ground floor and another in the basement. The hosts won't have any other alternatives to offer you. Please feel free to join us for the break and afterwards. We’re looking forward to writing with you, your hosts, Sarah, Nick, Laura and Anna

We love a good chat. Come and join us at Table 45

Join us for some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area. When you show up, say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session. Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries! **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://shutupwrite.com). **Other Important Details:** **Venue info:** this is a public café, so expect some noise around you. Please bring your headphones. While some plugs are available, they might not be free while we are there. Please charge your laptop beforehand. As this is a public café, and we're going to occupy a table for a while, *please buy something if you can* (even a cup of tea will do)! **IMPORTANT:** in the unfortunate case we are not able to find a table at this café, we'll need to move to another location close-by. The organizer will leave detailed info in the comment section of each event. Please check! **Travel info:** Closest public transport stops \- Finchley Road & Frognal \(Overground\)\, 1 min away \- West Hampstead Thameslink \(train\)\, 10 min away \- West Hampstead \(Overground\)\, 10 minutes away \- West Hampstead \(Underground\, Jubilee line\)\, 12 min away \- Bus stop FB \(bus 13\, 113\)\, 1 min away \- Bus stop FF \(bus 13\, 113\)\, 1 min away

**London Bridge – poor health, bad debts but a Grade I pub at the end** This walk is presented by Central London Humanists and led by volunteer Robert Hall. Humanists believe we have just one life to be lived rationally and well, with compassion for others. This event is a guided walk of +/- 2.25 hours pointing out places of interest. We will be walking 3.5 Km / 2.2 miles. This walk is a companion to the walk we did from Borough station almost exactly a year ago and there is a slight overlap. Amongst highlights we see a former church that is now being put to better use, view a building containing an operating theatre dating from 1822, a rather more modern hospital, the site of a debtors prison and a rather puzzling statue of Alfred the Great. We’ll also meet Henry (no – not the vacuum cleaner!). **Date:** Saturday 16th May 2026 **Time:** 2 pm with a prompt departure at 2.15 pm **Place:** Toilets at London Bridge Mainline station. The toilets are not well signposted so leave plenty of time to find them! **Finishes:** About 4.30 pm at The George, 75 Borough High St, Southwark SE1 1NH The walk is led by Robert – 07981963681. He can be contacted for further information but please note he won’t be able to respond to messages or calls after the walk has started. **The formal bit:** These walks are not suitable for dogs, sorry. CLH events are 18+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. The maximum group size is 40 people. If you have signed up but find you can't attend, **please change your RSVP** on Meetup (it’s very easy to do) as soon as possible so others can join. You are responsible for your own actions and safety; there is no liability on the walk leader or CLH for anything that may happen on the walk. You must be able to keep up with the walk leader at 4 Km/h (2.5 mph) for 5 Km (3 miles). It is participants' responsibility to safely cross roads. Where appropriate, pedestrian controlled lights will be used and obeyed unless it is obvious that the whole group can cross safely. When the group stops at a point of interest, please be mindful not to block pavements so members of the public can pass by safely. Don’t forget this is the UK and it may rain at any time! The walk will go ahead whatever the weather unless conditions are dangerous so please bring clothing for all seasons. **A donation of £3 to Central London Humanists would be appreciated.** The majority of Central London Humanists events are free, but we welcome a £3 contribution per head. This helps towards the running and organising of events, as well as various admin expenses. If you can't attend and would still like to contribute, or would prefer to pay online, please **[click here](https://checkout.square.site/merchant/ML71XMH66FX5E/checkout/ALWCDLQ3S7AVPLFZ62PZGXLU)**. We encourage anyone who is interested in Humanism and Central London Humanists to consider becoming a member: * If you wish to register as a full member of CLH (no membership fee) please register on our website: [https://centrallondonhumanists.org.uk/signup](https://centrallondonhumanists.org.uk/signup) * If you wish to join Humanists UK and support its work to promote humanism in British life, please go to: [Humanists UK – Think for yourself, act for everyone](https://humanists.uk/) We encourage dialogue, debate, and sharing of information, but ask people to keep their comments cordial. Any individual's views expressed (most definitely including the walk leader!) do not necessarily reflect the views of the group at large.

Join us at the top of the biggest bookshop in Europe to work in company on your own writing, be it a book, blog, screenplay, dissertation, poem, song, coursework, memoir, play, journal, travel writing, work stuff or anything else. Newcomers always welcome. No one will see what you're writing or give you unsolicited advice. Now that our regular Saturday events are filling all the seats we're adding some Sundays when we're able to - check Meetup for dates. Same format but an hour later. WHERE? FIFTH FLOOR CAFÉ, Floor 5, Waterstones, 203-206 Piccadilly, W1J 9LE TIMINGS:- 12.00 - Shop and café open 12:30 - Host will be there. Say hello, especially if you’re new. 12.40 - Brief introductions from everybody - your name and what you’re working on 12:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 13:30 – Break, chat to your neighbours if you like 13:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 14:30 - The End…feel free to stay and keep writing or chat some more. Bring whatever you need to be able to write. It’s a café, there’s some noise so earbuds/headphones/earplugs are handy. There’s very few mains sockets so charged-up laptops are a good idea too. And please remember everybody, thank our venue by buying a drink or food, and don’t consume anything from outside while you're here. We’re looking forward to writing with you, your hosts, Sarah, Nick, Laura, Anna, Solitaire and John

Hi all, cost & info below, Please join everyone for a stunning 3.5 mile, 5 mile or 6.5 mile beautiful, fascinating walk. We will walk along part of an amazing stretch of the River Thames and the local area adjacent, see where some of the Pilgrims set sail on the Mayflower ship, the captain of the Mayflower is buried in the local churchyard, the names and messages from the crew written on the walls, the old warehouses, remains Edward III Manor House, Mudlarkers, where Captain Cook prepared his Australian voyage and Samuel Pepys drank, the 'Fighting Temeraire' was painted by J.W Turner coming in to be hauled and scrapped Where Charles Dickens described this area as the poorest in London, Butler's Whaft and the amazing Shad Thames, a stunning historical area, location of Maltby Street Market (operates weekends only) a Tibetan tea room, a old factory where seal fur was made, beautiful parks and canals and a wall with an eye looking at you! £10 cash/card payment by simply turning up on the day Please meet outside the front of The Gregorian Pub, 96 Jamaica Road, Bermondsey, SE16 4SQ. Turn Left out of Bermondsey Underground Station (Jubilee Line) and the pun is about 200 meters on your left past all the small shops. Please note: This walk does not repeat or cover routes from the recent London Bridge and Bermondsey walk. This is a completely different walk 3.5 mile option ends back at Bermondsey Underground Station, does not include walk along an amazing stretch of the River Thames, Pilgrims Mayflower ship, captain burial, names and messages from the remains Edward III Manor House, Mudlarkers, Captain, the 'Fighting Temeraire' was painted, beautiful parks and canals 5 mile option ends at Canada Water Underground Station (Jubilee Line) does not include walk along an amazing stretch of the River Thames, Pilgrims Mayflower ship, captain burial, names and messages from the remains Edward III Manor House, Mudlarkers, Captain, the 'Fighting Temeraire' was painted 6.5 mile circular walk ends back at Bermondsey Underground Station ABOUT OUR SECRET LONDON WALKS It is a 15-year fascinating journey together to explore the whole of beautiful, enchanting Secret London. The only walking group in the World offering this unique experience! The individual walks have been created from an original route several miles in length (usually on average about 25 miles) where we have checked every nook and cranny, every hidden alleyway, lane, lost cobbled path, cul de sac, avenue, road or street in that area for you! It is then shortened, to give back to you a magical walk with all the best bits of 'Lovely London', voted the best City in the World for the 10th year running! What is given back to you is the most scenic, healthy walk (usually 3-6 miles in length) with some of the walks containing hidden cobbled lanes, lost shops, secret gems, areas lost in time, wonderful views, idyllic Instagram photo shots and all sorts! Now and then some brief local info is mentioned or something of historical importance along the way. You will have plenty of time to chat and meet new friends whilst walking the amazing lost areas of London! So we welcome you to the colourful highlights of this fascinating City of London with simply wonderful things to see! TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE ensure ARRIVAL at least 15 minutes BEFORE the start of the walk, sorry no latecomers are accepted for whatever reason. Members attend the unique walks from our different meetup groups. IF LATE, SORRY WE ARE UNABLE TO RECEIVE CALLS OR ANSWER EMAILS AS WELCOMING MEMBERS, LEADING THE WALK, AND CONCENTRATING ON THE SAFETY OF THE GROUP. PLEASE DO NOT BE LATE, YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO CATCH THE GROUP UP, PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT. Part Tour - Medium pace walk from 'Visit England' Award-Winning Guide and our group featured in the National Press! Please Note: Some events, being a large attended meetup group will be an organised walk only, but members are very welcome to organise their own get-togethers after the event. You are required to be fit and healthy with appropriate footwear & clothing, responsible for meeting at the correct location, own safety and to not lose the group by viewing the organiser/making the organiser aware as much as possible, or follow/not lose sight of the person(s) from the same walk in front. We advise carrying water and some snacks. The organiser is also not responsible for any circumstances that may affect the group or personally such as personal accidents, rail information, engineering works, cancellations, rail strikes or delays, heavy traffic, tours affected, weather, walk paths or routes closed, postcodes for car parks or for when we arrive back at the station, or anything else not mentioned! By joining the event you agree to all the terms and conditions. No Dogs allowed sorry We really look forward to welcoming you on the walks/tours for a wonderful, great, fun day!

We will meet outside the Blackhorse tube station (Victoria line and Overground) and make our way to see the wetlands. * Walthamstow Wetlands is a 211-hectare nature reserve adjacent to the River Lea. The reservoirs, under the ownership of Thames Water, also form part of a larger Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation, noted for the mixture of aquatic and terrestrial habitats on site, and for their London-wide importance (especially for birds). * We will finish our walk outside the Blackhorse tube station. Optional drinks/lunch at the end of the walk. What to bring: Comfortable footwear Water Photo-taking gadgets and chargers An umbrella just in case (it's London after all) The walk is free for members who have subscribed for an annual membership. For other members the fee is £5 cash/card on arrival to contribute towards the organiser's meetup fees and costs. The annual pass option is £15 payable by cash or card on the day. This will provide access to at least 40 walks per year (members are welcome to bring a guest to each event). All walks are free for the NHS staff (also welcome to bring a guest). **'No Show' Policy:** *If the member replied 'yes' but did not attend the event, did not update the RSVP and did not inform the organiser on 3 occasions – this triggers an automatic removal from the group. That's once for events with a waiting list.*

A walk through the majestic landscaping of Dulwich Park, the American Gardens and the charmingly picturesque Dulwich Village. LEAFY SUBURBS, OPULENCE, MANSIONS, PARKLANDS, GARDENS, LAKE followed by SOCIALISING with CHEAP FOODS and DRINKS in a convivial pub atmoshere. **WALK START POINT: Forest Hill Station** (National Rail and London Overground Zone 3). WALK DISTANCE: Approx 5.5 miles. WALK END POINT: Denmark Hill Station - National Rail and London Overground Zone 2). WALK ROUTE: A WALK THROUGH LEAFY SUBURBS of South London. Our walk takes us through HORNIMAN GARDENS, AMERICAN GARDENS in DULWICH PARK and RUSKIN PARK before finishing at 'The Fox on the Hill' near Denmark Hill Station. WALK STOP OUT POINT: Nearby bus routes during most of the walk. *The American Gardens:* Designed around sweeping lawns lined with Azaleas and Rhododendrons. One of the less well-known facts about Dulwich Park is that it was visited annually by Queen Mary who came to see the Rhododendrons and Azaleas. Queen Mary was consort to George V which means that she was Queen Elizabeth II’s grandmother. Queen Mary visited every year in May. In her honour, the park has a Queen Mary Gate named after her which stands beside the road called Dulwich Common. The gates are nearest to the American Gardens. **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. Why pay more on other groups for overpriced walks with no afterwalk socialising!!** **The walk is free for holders of the Ken's Events Membership Card.** Enjoy London! Get out and about and see your city in the company of new people! 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 great new friends at the same time. Take this opportunity to visit green parts of London, unknown to most people, and that you would not otherwise have an opportunity to see. 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. RISKS for all walks: 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, rights of way, bridlepaths, country lanes and other established paths and tracks through woodland, bush and countryside. Please only wear good sturdy shoes, preferably walking boots and take care as surfaces may be uneven, tree roots may protrude, there may be low overhanging branches and some paths are also used by joggers and cyclists and sometimes cars (country lanes). Some tracks may be muddy and slippery. On occasion wild,domestic and farm animals may also encountered. 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 [http://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/](http://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. COST of EVENT: A £5 meetup organiser's contribution will be collected from attendees who do not hold the Ken's Events Membership Card. The walk is free for holders of this card. Please post no pre-event messages unless you are posting something relevant for the whole group and only post photos of other members with their consent. Kens Events also has a Facebook Page, Instagram and Twitter accounts. [http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) Instagram Page [Kenswalks](https://www.instagram.com/weekendgreenwalks/) Twitter [@KenEvents](http://www.twitter.com/KenEvents) Kens Events also has a Facebook Group that you can join. [http://www.facebook.com/groups/Kensevents](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) RAIN POLICY: Our walks normally go ahead as planned even if it rains. Light rain is not usually a problem . However if torrentail rain is forecast, please check back to this webpage on the morning of the event around 10am for the latest update. Tell your friends you are going! When you arrive at the starting point look Ken with the 'KEN'S EVENTS'/MEETUP Flag or Badge.

Come along on Sunday 17th May for lunch before the guided walk. **About the event** Once a month at lunchtime before the guided walks, we will be having lunch in a local cafe or pub in the area the walk is in. It's a chance to chat and get to know people in the group in a quiet relaxed setting. Each month's place will be in a different part of London and different cafes or pubs. The lunches are open to all, whether you come on the walk or not. Lookout for the 'London Cultureseekers' group signs on the tables when you get to the cafe. Hope to see you there! Robert 07905 901 834 (prefer text) or email: [general@cultureseekers.org](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/)***

Come along on Saturday 16th Mayl to visit the historic city of Lichfield in the county of Staffordshire! **About Lichfield** Lichfield is a historic and pretty town situated 14 miles north of Birmingham. Notable for its three-spired 14th century medieval cathedral, Lichfield was the birthplace of Dr Samuel Johnson, the writer of the first authoritative 'Dictionary of the English Language'*.* In 2009, the Staffordshire Hoard, the largest hoard of Anglo-Saxon gold and silver metalwork, was found 4 miles south-west of Lichfield. Lichfield's heyday was in the 18th century, when it developed into a thriving coaching city. This was a period of great intellectual activity; the city was the home of many famous people including Dr Samuel Johnson, actor and playwright David Garrick, physician Erasmus Darwin and the novelist Anna Seward, author of the book 'Black Beauty'. This prompted Johnson's remark that Lichfield was "a city of philosophers". **Itinerary** 9:07am - catch train to Lichfield City 10:41am - arrive and walk into town 11:00am - guided tour of the cathedral 12:30pm - lunch 1:45pm - guided tour of the town (meeting outside the cathedral entrance) 3:30pm - freetime: Samuel Johnson's Birthplace Museum, Erasmus Darwin House, the Old Guildhall Prison Cells, Wheate & Son's Toy Museum 5:16pm - catch train back to London 7:30pm - arrival back **Cost** Entry and tour of the cathedral is £10 per person and the guided tour of the city is £7 per person. Payable on the day by cash, PayPal or Bank Transfer. You can do both, either or just do your own thing in the city. **Train Tickets** Please go ahead and book your own ticket at the Avanti West Coast Railway website - [https://www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk](https://www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/)/ or on the Trainline website - [https://www.thetrainline.com/](https://www.thetrainline.com/) The GroupSave tickets don't work out any cheaper. so best to purchase two single tickets. If you aim to get the 9:07am train from Euston to Lichfield (£30.50 single) and return on the 5:16pm train back to London (£9.00 single). You might get them cheaper if you shop around. **Please book your tickets asap, as they will go up the nearer we get to the date of the trip.** Please note, we only wait at the station for 10 minutes after the advertised meeting time, so please be early or on time. If you can't see us at the station, please text. Look out for the red and blue 'London Cultureseekers' group sign. Hope to see you there! Robert 07905 901 834 (prefer text) ***On the day, if you can’t make the trip, 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/)***

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.

Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington. The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo. Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine. We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you. The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly. Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome. The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit. Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times. Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have. Happy writing!

**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.

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 11 at Streetlight Guild. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

This month we’ll be reading Agnes Aubert’s Mystical Cat Shelter by Heather Fawcett. Feel free to come and chat even if you don’t finish the book!

Who else is ready to sit outside? Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Grandview Grind! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!