Social and Cultural Outings

Have you ever wanted to get together outdoors and chill out amongst good company whilst being immersed within nature & amazing weather? If so, then this is the right event for you. Welcome to one of the first CHILL events where you have the opportunity to settle in the parks, form friendships, socialise, have a picnic and so much more whilst being immersed within the luscious greenery, botanicals and the gorgeous weather. 

With this particular chill event, we will be settling in the inner circle gardens of Regent’s Park. The inner circle has some beautiful botanicals and some lovely greenery to settle on which is really ideal for relaxing, having a picnic and even being amongst good company. Depending on the aura and if the event goes well, we may do an aftermath and let democracy decide. My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy 

WHAT - Chill in Regents Park
WHERE - Regents Park
WHEN - 4pm - 9pm
MEETING POINT - Regents Park
NEAREST STATIONS - Baker Street & Great Portland Street Stations
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. Maybe bring your ID if we do an aftermath. Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

**It's landed. Another Sunday and we’ve got your weekend sorted again with another special Spring Social Walk and Pub trip, exclusively for 20s and 30s.** Yep and for this latest free Sunday walk, we’ll be heading back to one of the most popular hiking spots in the capital, Hampstead Heath in North London. As always before heading off on the hike, you'll be allocated a group/team for an initial mix of fun and light-hearted games, designed to help you break the ice and get to know your fellow walkers a little better. After the games and everyone is warmed up for walk, we’ll then set off on our 2-3 hour hike across the heath. Along the way, we will wander past the stately home, Kenwood House and the famous Parliament Hill viewing point overlooking London. We will then ramble through the stunning ancient woodland, Highgate Wood before finally before ending up at a pub in Muswell Hill, where you'll be able to relax, have a drink and chat with those you've met on the walk. **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **WHERE/WHEN WE WILL MEET** Meet Point - Parliament Hill Bandstand (Exact Location: [https://goo.gl/maps/jKYWV9W6BPoZjSoF6](https://goo.gl/maps/jKYWV9W6BPoZjSoF6)) Closest stations: Gospel Oak (5-10 min walk) and Tufnell Park (15 min walk). Destination: The Clissold Arms, Muswell Hill Meet Time - 14:00 Walk Finish time: 17:00 (approx) Pub Finish time: 18:00 - 19:30 (Approx) **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **JOIN THE COMMUNITY** Set up in November 2021, the project was set up to help 20s and 30s in London meet, connect and hopefully build life-long friendships. To help make this happen, we also host all kinds of events from free social walks, games evenings, day trips, social events, activity nights to picnics. To learn more about our community or to follow us on social media, please follow one of the links below. **Website - [https://friendship-project.co.uk](https://friendship-project.co.uk/)** **Instagram - [https://www.instagram.com/great.friendship](https://www.instagram.com/great.friendship)**

Join Hannah, Rob and London Wildish Club as we head out into the Lee Valley Regional Park, a 26-mile corridor of waterways, wetlands and open space stretching from the Thames all the way up into Hertfordshire. We'll start and finish at Cheshunt Station, crossing straight into the River Lee Country Park and its lakes, wetlands, locks and big skies. May is a lovely time to do it; hopefully we'll see nesting birds, hawthorn coming into blossom and the reed beds waking up. Along the way we'll stop for 20-30 minutes to have a go at sketching. We'll find a comfortable spot by the water, pick a natural focus point (a reed bed, a lock, a heron if we're lucky) and take a slower, closer look at what's around us before gathering to share and heading on. No artistic experience is needed, and no one will be judging your heron. The point is the looking, not the drawing. This is a slightly longer wander at 10.3 km, but genuinely easy going with barely any elevation. [See the route here.](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-c977093?u=m&sh=pv1y6m) Optional toilet breaks should be available at two points along the route. There are no cafés on the walk itself, but there are pubs nearby the station if you fancy something afterwards, and we welcome members of the group suggesting somewhere to head after the walk. **PLEASE UPDATE YOUR RSVPs AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE IF YOU CAN NO LONGER ATTEND.** Any questions, just give us a shout. **What to Bring** * A pencil to sketch with — some spares will be available, and small pieces of card will be provided to sketch on * Comfortable walking shoes or trainers (paths are well-surfaced but can be muddy near the water) * A light layer, as May can still surprise you * Water + snacks * Binoculars if you have them, genuinely worth it here * A dog friend, if you have one **Route Info** * Circular route, starting and finishing at Cheshunt Station ([https://share.google/HiRebm6USByDXXU2l](https://share.google/HiRebm6USByDXXU2l)) (what3words[///toned.notion.clouds](https://w3w.co/toned.notion.clouds)) * We'll meet at 13:15 for a hard start at 13:30 — please do try to be on time. We'll share our live location via the WhatsApp group on the day. * Distance: 10.3 km / 6.4 miles * Duration: approx. 2 hrs 30 mins (steady pace, plus sketching stop) * We'll walk rain or shine — come prepared 🌦️ **Getting There:** Cheshunt is on the Liverpool Street to Hertford East line, around 30 minutes direct. Check your journey before you travel as weekend services can vary. **About Wildish Club** [Wildish Club ](https://www.wildishclub.co.uk)is a place for outside people — bringing curious, friendly folk together across the UK to do interesting things outdoors. It’s a bit like Cubs, but for adults. [You can join Wildish Club London via our website (it’s free) ](https://www.wildishclub.co.uk/join-the-club)to get access to our Wildish WhatsApp community, where you can: * Connect with other Wildish folk outside of events * ⁠Hear about upcoming wanders and meets before they appear on Meetup * ⁠Track our live location during wanders (handy if you're running late) * ⁠Share nature finds, photos, and ideas for future adventures If you'd like to support Wildish Club and help more people get outside, you can also become a Wildish Supporter via our website. Some supporter tiers also come with a few extra perks, including: * Access to Wildish Zines * ⁠Discounts on Wildish Club Coffee * Printed quarterly Wildish Guide, Monthly Wildish Club Coffee & Discounts at the Wildish Store (for top supporters) *Event image: Illustrated / Original photography credit: anemoneprojectors / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)*

**DESCRIPTION** They say that pictures speak a thousand words, and so here are pics from this previous day trip on our website (click on this event): [www.aaahiking.co.uk/day-hikes](www.aaahiking.co.uk/day-hikes) We begin in charming Bosham Bay before taking a scenic boat ride across Chichester Harbour, arriving at the stunning white sands of West Wittering. Expect coastal views, sea air, open skies and time to relax, swim or explore the shoreline. A refreshing mix of harbour charm and beach bliss. **WHAT TO EXPECT - HIKING INFO** Distance: **21km** Ascent: c.**mainly flat** Estimated Duration (approx): **5-6 hours walking** Difficulty: **[Moderate](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/hike-grade)** **PROGRAMME** Meeting Point: Meeting Point: **[London Victoria Station](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/meeting-places/)** (see pic in link) in front of the ticket machines where the Benches are. Assembly time: 08:00 Move to train: 08:15 Train leaves: 08:32 Arrive at Bosham station: 10:36 Leave Beach 16:00ish Departure from West Wittering bus station on bus 16:25ish Departure Train: 16:54 from Chichester station, arrive back at Victoria 18:50 Exact timings to work out on the day and be prepared to be later back to Victoria than planned. **Pricing Info:** * £38 per person – includes hike + train, boat and bus travel. Book by 11:59 PM on Tuesday before the event to guarantee your spot at this discounted price - after this time there might or might not be limited discounted tickets left upon checking event. * Want to join for the hike, bus and boat only? Message me privately on Meetup to pay £18, then you'll need to get your own train tickets. **HIKE INCLUDES** * Guided Hike planned and led by experienced AAA leaders, trained Summer Mountain Leader with Wilderness First Aid Training. * PayPal fees **PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** * Lunch, drinks or any refreshments * Souvenirs * Meetup Fee levied on all purchases via meetup * Entrance fees to any attractions you wish to visit **RECOMMENDED KIT LIST [(](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)[full list](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/kit-lists)[)](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)** * Suitable hiking shoes or boots * Waterproof jacket and trousers (Please no jeans!) * Water [2L recommended] * Warm/Windproof layer, e.g. Down/Primaloft/Fleece * Wicking base layer, e.g. Polyester/Tencil/Merino * Camera & Phone * Picnic lunch and snacks **CANCELLING/REFUNDS** If you can no longer join the event, please message the host and update your RSVP status on MeetUp to 'Not going', to allow others to take your place. If the event sells out, and you have messaged us and have changed your RSVP to 'Not going', please email us on [info@aaalondongroup.com](info@aaalondongroup.com) after the event date, requesting a refund, including your PayPal email address, so we can locate the payment. Unfortunately, as PayPal retains the original transaction fee, we cannot refund this. If the hike is not full, we are sorry, we are unable to issue a refund. **QUESTIONS** If you have any other questions, please check visit our [FAQ page](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/faq). 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 Hiking Terms and Conditions. [FAQs](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/faq) \| [Terms and Conditions](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/terms-and-conditions) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/AAAhiking) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews) \| [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaahiking/) \| [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@aaahiking) \| [Trip Advicer](https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186338-d19994843-Reviews-AAA_Hiking_Outdoor_Group-London_England.html) \| [TicTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@aaahiking) \| [Website](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/) © AAA London Group Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted

Casual get-together to watch the F1 Race. The location is Redwood. WhatsApp Group Chat: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DGyMcSSe2rZCNjUUF8dHy1

*📣 Meetup RSVPs do not reflect actual attendance! We usually have around 20-30 people at every single event. 📣* **[🎟️ Sign up here to grab your ticket 🎟️](https://luma.com/london5ftst)** 🎫 **RSVP ≠ ticket. A paid ticket is required to attend.** 🔗 On your phone and can’t click? Click the link in the comments :) F\*ck the Small Talk has travelled the world across Berlin, Mexico City, Melbourne, Lisbon, Medellin, Vienna, and now back to London for its 3rd year in a row! 😎 **📦 WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?** FTST is a **one-of-a-kind social experience** where strangers come together for an afternoon of meaningful, fun, and deep conversation. It’s also a different & cool way of meeting new people by getting a bit out of your comfort zone and skipping the small talk! Join us for **games**, **talks**, and **connections** with **friends you haven’t met yet**. Join if you get annoyed after being asked what you do, where you are from, and how long you've been in London every single time you meet someone. If you feel that there are better questions in life, this is the place for you. 🙌 **📓 HOW DOES IT WORK?** We start with a short & sweet intro talk followed by a few light-hearted group games to warm up. After that, we split you up into small groups and start with the conversation rounds (with 3-4 people). We'll have awesome question cards that will guide the flow of the conversation. You’ll never have to speak in public if you don’t want to. **📣 NOTE**: We won't validate your payment unless you've been accepted! (which you most likely will ❤️) **🕹 HOW TO JOIN?** **[Take 1 minute to sign up 👈](https://luma.com/london5ftst)** 🔗 On your phone and can’t click? Click the link in the comments :) Our events are **limited to 30 handpicked guests** to ensure a cozy atmosphere. We aim to curate events with similar age and gender groups *wherever possible.* If you're invited you'll receive a confirmation within 48 hours via Luma (our ticketing platform) **🧧 HOW MUCH IS IT?** The cost to attend is **13-15£** and includes the following: ⏰ 3 hours of facilitated and curated activities 🍎 Light snacks to keep the energy going (only if outdoors) 👥 A space to meet new people in the least boring way possible 💛 Supporting our mission to spread human connection events around the world *(🎫 also includes those annoying ticket fees!)* We're also happy to give out student discounts! 🙂 **🌳 WHERE IS IT?** We host our events in awesome pubs & parks across the city! We will reveal the exact location to ticket holders 24 hours before the event. This edition will take place in a nice pub near **Waterloo**. **💛 WHAT THEY SAY** 🗣 “This is the kind of activity humanity needs every weekend. Thank you for all.” - Sonya 🗣 “F\*ck the Small Talk changes the narrative from "Where are you from?" to "When was the last time you laughed uncontrollably?" and I think that's beautiful.” - Monika 🗣 “I loved F\*ck the small talk, I was a little bit nervous at first but they are pros at making you feel comfortable with the rest of the group, the activities are really fun and I enjoyed every second (consider that the one who's saying this is very, very shy). Give it a try!” - Brenda 🗣 “Lively, interesting, introspective, completely open, and no judgment. Everyone that joined was ready for great conversation and helped with different perspectives. So much fun! I can't wait for the next one! “ - Yaz Check out our other [reviews on Google here](https://goo.gl/maps/TpZy77bfPFkGoikn7) 🫶 🤓 FAQ **• Can I come alone?** Of course, in fact, we encourage it! **• Can I be late?** Please don't! "Doors" open at 11:45am and we start at exactly 12:00pm! Late arrivals will disrupt the floooooooow. **• I signed up but never got an invite. Why?** We usually get a high volume of sign-ups yet we like to keep it cozy & only invite around 25 people. We believe this is a good number to ensure an awesome experience, and we’ve learned that it’s easier to build connections with smaller groups! Please try again next time if do not receive an invite - no hard feelings 💛 **• Why do you charge?** We value our time and put a lot of love, planning, and effort into creating & designing these experiences. 💛 This is our project/business and what we give to the world and we think everything should be a fair exchange! 🎈 However, money should never be the reason for people not to attend. If you can’t afford it simply get in touch with us :) **• I'm digging this! Can I get involved somehow?** Sure thing, send us a message! **• Can I bring my pet (llama)?** 100% yes (depends on the venue, ask us!) -- 𝘾𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨, 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙. ✨ * Age guide 22 - 40ish\* (only a reference, never a limit 💃) * Only 30 spots available * Location is only revealed to ticket holders! 🙅‍♀️📱This event is a no-phone experience. Keep them tucked in your pocket 🙅‍♀️📱 We started in Berlin back in 2019 and there are now chapters in Mexico City, Lisbon, Medellin, and Vancouver! 🌏 **Stay in touch 👇** [Website](https://epicllama.com/fuckthesmalltalk) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/epic.llama/)

**Come join us for some fun in the park** This is a weekly social park gathering with optional sports and board / social games. 2pm Rounders 3:30pm Social/Board games in the park- please sign up separately [HERE](https://www.meetup.com/games-friends/)[.](https://meetu.ps/e/PfHPb/z45zT/i) **How to play rounders** Not played rounders before? It's a traditional English sport for everyone, even the unsporty. Here's a video of us playing: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6Bya3T5W3k](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6Bya3T5W3k) Rounders is a bat and ball game similar to baseball played by two teams. Your team will be either fielding or batting before swapping after the innings. When batting, the aim is to hit the ball, then try and run around the four posts. Your team gets a rounder if you make it round the four posts without stopping or getting out. You are out if when you hit the ball someone catches the ball before it reaches the ground or someone stumps a post before you get there. The rules will be explained at the beginning of each meetup with a practice round at the beginning. We play a slightly modified version of the official rules where if you are out, it's not game over for you. Your team will lose a life instead. This will give everyone multiple opportunities to bat. **It's very simple to pick up and the ball we use is very soft. We are very beginner friendly and the focus is on having fun rather than being competitive**. We attract attendees of all ages and sporting level. You are welcome to come and watch only too. We usually have a few people who do so while having a picnic and enjoying the park. **Come and meet us** Meet at 2pm in Regents Park. Here is the map of where we will be playing in the park (Cumberland Green): [https://www.notion.so/hyau/Rounders-at-Regents-Park-8bc419b72dde4aacaec3870d291636be](https://www.notion.so/hyau/Rounders-at-Regents-Park-8bc419b72dde4aacaec3870d291636be) You can also find us around here: [https://what3words.com/swim.jolly.youth](https://what3words.com/swim.jolly.youth) (just look out for our white rounders bases (long, white sticks) and you can usually spot us. Please feel free to bring food and drinks. The main rounders game will finish at 3:30pm and this is followed by social/board games or beginner friendly mixed gender football. **Social/Board Games** Please check out our [separate meetup event](https://www.meetup.com/games-friends/) for details and sign up there! **Football** For mixed gender football we aim to have roughly equal numbers of men and women and 3 ability levels (Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced). There may be limited spaces for men for football as we are always oversubscribed. **Free or play for charity** Our Sunday social and rounders events are free for everyone. The organisers volunteer their time and fund for the equipment, public liability insurance, marketing and meetup costs to make this happen. We would like our events to raise awareness and money for worthwhile charities. If you appreciate our events, please consider making a donation on our fundraising page to our supported charity, War Child. To donate and for more info, please visit: [https://www.justgiving.com/page/social-sports-mix-warchild](https://www.justgiving.com/page/social-sports-mix-warchild) We will also promote fundraising pages suggested or owned by our attendees. Get in touch if you are attending and also charity fundraising.

IMPORTANT EVENT INFORMATION - PLEASE READ! 🇬🇧🇪🇸🇫🇷🇯🇵🇮🇹🇩🇪🇮🇳🇨🇳🇧🇷🇰🇷🇪🇬🇭🇰🇺🇸🇨🇴🇺🇦🇹🇷🇷🇺🇦🇺 **Join us for our Sunday International Language Exchange and Social!** The event starts at **4pm** and will be hosted at Craft Beer Co. in **COVENT GARDEN** 😊🍻🥂 Welcome to the Highest Rated International Language Exchange group in London,🏆 with 1600+ reviews rated 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ www.languages.london WHEN & WHERE **This event takes place at Craft Beer Co Covent Garden on Sunday afternoon.** You are spoilt for choice with public transport options including lots of tube, train and buses close to the venue. **The address is 168 High Holborn, London WC1V 7AA** https://maps.google.com/?cid=12246258418147807722&entry=gps **HOW WE DO IT** It's simple .... 1\. When you arrive have your Meetup confirmation visible on your phone\. **Collect your personalised language badge BEFORE ordering your drinks.** We'll be waiting to give you a warm welcome 😃 2\. Pay the £2 event fee\. You can do this by cash or contactless card / phone\. 3\. Wear your badge during the event and always return it before you leave ♻️ ......Start meeting the community and having fun...lots of fun! Please ensure you buy something from the bar to support the venue, who kindly offer us a dedicated space. 🇵🇱🇹🇼🇲🇽🇻🇳🇧🇬🇵🇸🇸🇪🇮🇱🇨🇦🇳🇱🇿🇦🇭🇺🇹🇭🇵🇪🇧🇴🇳🇬🇳🇿🇨🇭 **WHO** Languages in London events are organised for our community - being social, making new friends, building cultural bridges and always very relaxed. We have the largest number of languages and countries represented in our weekly language exchange and social events in London. This is **not** a dating event. Our events are open to Internationals, Locals, Expats, Students, Travellers.....Everyone! Are you an 18 to 24 year old? Come and explore our events. This is the event for a truly global community and for citizens from around the World. Is this the Intercambio you've been looking for? Want to practice your ingles, espanol , francais, italiano, Deutsch, portugues or other European languages? Asian languages ? Or maybe prefer to only speak English.... that's just fine. **All languages and all fluency levels are welcome** Spread the love...Bring your friends 💙 The creator and organiser of **Languages in London - Girish**, will always be visible at the event and there to support you and help with introductions, if you prefer. We want to remain the BEST language events group in London, being the biggest isn't our focus. These are real events with real people. We don't fill our events with inflated numbers and fictitious attendees 👻 **Community members that no-show at our events and inactive members are regularly removed from our group.** **LANGUAGES** Here's a selection of some of the languages that our community speak or have been practicing ... English, Spanish (incl Latin American), French, Italian, Portuguese (incl Brazilian), German, Japanese, Chinese (Mandarin & Cantonese), Russian, Korean, Hindi, Turkish, Arabic, Ukrainian, Polish, Hebrew, Swedish, Bulgarian, Vietnamese, Hungarian, Bengali, Dutch, Catalan, Farsi, Greek, Urdu, Welsh, Romanian, Norwegian, Czech, Slovakian, Estonian, Danish, Finnish, Turkmen, Latvian, Lithuanian, Nepali, Yoruba, Filipino, Thai, Albanian, Croatian, Serbian, Ebo, Afrikaans, Tamazight, Tagalog, Creole, Malagasy, Mongolian, Tok Pisin and more... you get the idea! 🇷🇴🇬🇹🇨🇿🇳🇴🇩🇰🇫🇮🇨🇾🇺🇾🇪🇬🇧🇬🇦🇷🇰🇪🇱🇰🇲🇦🇹🇳🇩🇿🇸🇬🇲🇾 **SUSTAINABLE** 🌎🌳 Like you, we really care about our planet. We don't like single use paper name tags, stickers or wristbands as they can't be reused or recycled and can even damage your clothing ☹️ The Solution? ...Our personalised and completely reusable Languages in London badges! 🏆👍 So, please make sure you return your badge to us, before you leave the event. We'll sanitise it (anti bacterial & disinfectant cleaners) and use it again & again & again. Thanks for helping us do the right thing and keep our costs down🙏 **SAFE SPACE FOR EVERYONE** 👮‍♂️ We don't tolerate prejudice or harassment of any kind, at any time. Be polite and respectful to everyone else and they will reciprocate. Let's keep the space safe, welcoming for everyone and free of any political agendas. Please report any concerns to the Organiser immediately. Please look after your belongings, the venue is a public place. We may take photos or video at the event for future promotional use. Let us know if you'd rather not be included, we respect your choice 📸 **SPREAD THE WORD** 🗣️💬 If you enjoy our events, please tell your friends and colleagues and help us grow **your** community, thank you ♥️ Join our community - https://www.languages.london/ We're looking forward to welcoming you at Languages in London 😊👋 🇲🇰🇳🇵🇧🇩🇵🇭🇦🇪🇦🇱🇧🇪🇮🇪🇰🇿🇱🇦🇯🇴🇱🇹🇱🇻🇪🇪🇰🇭🇨🇱🇲🇳🇨🇺

Join us for an approximately 5 mile walk from Kings Cross Station along Regents Canal to Little Venice where we will enjoy this year's [canalways cavalcade](https://waterways.org.uk/support/ways-to-get-involved/events/iwa-canalway-cavalcade-2026), the celebration of London's boating community. There will be music, food and drink and potentially even Morris Dancing. The scenic walk along the Regent's Canal should take us under 2 hours and you will have to be fit to attend this walk. The festival is always very busy and we will therefore split up into smaller groups once there to be able to move around. We are going to meet at the [birdcage](https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo/birdcage-kings-cross.html?sortBy=relevant) at Kings Cross station. That is close to the Germany Gymnasium, outside Kings Cross underground station. As always, please only sign up if you are intending to attend. The event is free but the usual £1.50 are a none refundable maintenance fee and meetup will also charge you £0.60. We would appreciated it if you cancelled no later than 2 days before the event and to please avoid cancelling on the day as that may get you removed from the group. The walk will start at 11am and we will leave at that time. Once we are on the move you may not find us. Therefore, please be on time.

Our table will have a reservation notice for Ashley Farnham. Looking forward to seeing you! **PLEASE NOTE: Photographs of the event's attendees will be taken and posted on Meetup. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let the event's organiser know on arrival.** **PLEASE NOTE: For the duration of the quiz, mobile phones are not allowed to be used for any reason.** **FOR NEW ATTENDEES: If you cannot locate either me or the group, please message me through the Meetup app which you can install on your phone.** Would you like to join our group at The Railway's pub quiz on Sunday evening? Putney Social Group has reserved seating for 6. The map pin is slightly off as the meetup site is not currently allowing me to change it to the precise location. Due to the popularity of the quizzes, the quiz is on the first floor. Please note: There are no lifts at the venue. This group event has prizes on offer including a £50 bar tab for the winning group and various free drink questions throughout the duration of the quiz! It consists of 4 sections on general knowledge questions with a break halfway. The charge is £2.50 payable to the pub’s quizmaster by either cash or electronic payment using your phone. Please aim to arrive at around 7pm as the quiz starts at about 7:30pm. Please cancel your reservation if you cannot attend. By way of information, the venue has accessible toilets available on the ground floor only and wheelchair access is also available via the front-side entrance that has a ramp. Nearest Public Transport: Train: Putney Tube: East Putney (District Line, Wimbledon Branch) - It takes about 5 minutes to walk to the venue from the tube station. Bus: 14, 37, 85, 93, 337, 430, N74.

**ENJOY LUNCH & SOCIALISE! Meet new people, indulge in delicious flavours in this amazing contemporary venue! BOOK VIA THE LINK IN ORDER TO ATTEND! [https://fatso.ma/fqm9b](https://fatso.ma/fqm9b) STRICTLY NO WALK INS AS THIS IS PRE BOOKED NUMBER OF SEATS.** If any issues with links please text Eleni in advance! ***We are enjoying a 40% GENEROUS OFFER OFF THE FOOD MAIN MENU AT THE MODERN & WELCOMING ROCKWELL BISTRO & WINE BAR - RESTAURANT, IN THE TRAFALGAR ST James HOTEL, right in Trafalgar Square.*** *\*\*\*PLEASE NOTE THAT WE ARE MEETING AT 14:00 RIGHT OUTSIDE THE MAIN ENTRANCE OF ROCKWELL SO WE CAN GO TO THE TABLE ALL TOGETHER\*\*\** PLEASE NOTIFY ELENI IF YOU ARE RUNNING LATE! but please try not to. The table is BOOKED AS ELENI, NOT AS MEET-UP. **-A great way to engage with like minded people that love going out and about, indulge in delicious and healthy flavours with a pleasant vibe, knowing how to create and optimise precious moments in life.** -Be part of interesting conversations and enrich your social circle. **-Meet new people or catch up with who you may have met in a previous event, make friends, create connections or perhaps find someone that can make your heart sing!** A meal is best enjoyed when is prepared with love and shared with joy! **Perfect strangers can become an amazing company to socialise and dine!** ***-Introduce yourself with your best smile, make a fine impression, see it reflected back to you!*** *Rockwell Bistro & Wine Bar is just steps away from the iconic Trafalgar Square, at the entry level of the 5\* Trafalgar Hotel St James, offering a day-to-night charm, seamlessly transitioning from morning specialty coffee to evening wine and locally sourced cuisine.* Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a curious adventurer, Rockwell invites you to indulge in an elegant dining experience where every detail evokes a sense of theatre. **Please note that each guest must order a minimum of 2 items from the food menu in order for the 40% TO BE APPLIED to the whole bill, drinks are excluded.** By attending this event you are solely responsible for your own safety. Be diligent in case of any food allergies you may have. DRESS CODE : SMART CASUAL PLEASE!!! as this is a 5\* hotel environment Fee is non refundable, non transferable unless the event is cancelled.

Time to swap the screen for some greenery during the bank holiday weekend! We’re heading to Rickmansworth for a chill 6km circular hike. It’s an easy route covering the lakes and the canal—perfect for some weekend gupshup and fresh air. The Plan: • Meet: Rickmansworth Tube Station 🚉 We will meet at 11 am and start the walk around 11:30 am • The Walk: A 6km (approx. 4 mile) scenic loop. No crazy hills, just good vibes. • Gear: Sturdy trainers or boots (don’t wear your fresh white Nikes, it’s muddy!). Let’s get those steps in and catch up over chai while enjoying scenic views !

**Sundays can be fun for sure! Meet new people, enrich your social circle! BOOK VIA THIS LINK: [https://fatso.ma/fqgrh](https://fatso.ma/fqgrh) or [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/your-social-sunday-grandeur-bar-lounge-conversations-coffees-cocktails-tickets-1988259268996?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/your-social-sunday-grandeur-bar-lounge-conversations-coffees-cocktails-tickets-1988259268996?aff=oddtdtcreator) Engage in interesting conversations, indulge in delicious food & desserts, handcrafted cocktails & mocktails in this grandeur Bar Lounge, make the most of it** *KINDLY CONFIRM VIA THE LINK & RSVP! NO WALK INS* Join us this afternoon in socialising at a hidden gem steps away from Trafalgar Square, enjoy beautiful views from the conservatory and an amazing ambiance. **Bring out the FRIENDLY and SOCIAL self of yours, be introduced** **to all lovely attendees of various mindsets and backgrounds, engage in conversations and see what can potentially happen** **next!** **Make a good friend, perhaps meet someone that can make your heart sing or simply enjoy the afternoon with new people or who you might have met in previous events.** *Join by yourself as most people do, in a safe and comfortable environment or bring your friends along, the more the merrier.* **Present yourself with the best smile on your face! Make a best first impression, see it reflected back to you!** *Enjoy n*ew ways of creating a new social circle, make connections, discover amazing venues and see London and life from a different perspective. **HOW TO FIND:** **-ENTER THE CLERMONT CHARING CROSS HOTEL AND COME UPSTAIRS TO THE BAR - RESTAURANT** **-ASK THE HOST TO BE SHOWN TO ELENI'S BOOKING** ***Please arrive at or about 16:00*** *so you can be in the flow of the introductions and make the most of your time to engage with everyone, we are there for approximately 2 hours.* **ELENI is hosting this event, making sure all guests are welcomed, introduced to each other and included throughout.** Talk about anything and everything that makes you feel joyous and interact with interesting and exciting stories of other attendees. ***Enjoy* creating a new social circle, make connections, discover amazing venues and see London and life from a more pleasant perspective.** *The Clermont Lobby Bar Lounge brings forth the grandeur luxury of the building steeped in history, inspired by the classics, with a modern twist and a feeling of joy. It serves delicious food and drinks, created with local produce, locally sourced whenever possible.* Nearest tube: Charing Cross By attending this event you are fully responsible for your own safety. Please behave responsibly and be cautious of any food allergies you may have. Fee is non-refundable unless the event is cancelled.

Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!

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

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

We’re bringing back Adult Field Day. Last year was a good mix of competition and just hanging out, so we’re doing it again with some new games mixed in. Think team-based challenges, simple races, and a few things inspired by game shows. You don’t need to be athletic. Most of the fun is just being part of a team and getting to know people you wouldn’t normally talk to. The goal isn’t really winning. It’s meeting people, laughing a bit, and leaving knowing a few more names than when you showed up. If you stick around after, we’ll have a potluck, a bonfire, and a couple comedians in the evening. Bring: * Please Bring Something to share for the potluck cookout signup sheet [https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E49ABA92EA2FAC70-63781787-saturday](https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E49ABA92EA2FAC70-63781787-saturday) * Clothes you can move around in RSVP on Meetup is free. A small contribution helps keep events sustainable and ensures those who RSVP actually show up. Great events take time, effort, and consistency to organize. Most people contribute $2–5 per event to help keep these going. Appreciate everyone who supports — it genuinely makes a difference. If you find value in these events or maybe even made a new friend, consider contributing what feels fair to you. **Contribution link** listed below in the comments

Coffee and conversation at [The Roosevelt Coffeehouse](https://www.olentangybrew.com/roosevelt-coffee), located at Olentangy River Brewing. They will also have a Venezuelan [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) that always gets good reviews.

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.