Social and Cultural Outings

**We don’t do boring Wednesdays, and to mark the new year in style, we’re hosting one of our favourite adrenaline-fuelled midweek activity nights!** Yep that’s right, we’ll be back in the driver's seat again and heading to one London’s best indoor Go Karting tracks, **TeamSport Docklands** for an evening of fast-paced races. This indoor venue offers the fastest karts in Central London driving speeds of up-to 40mph, and a multi-Level track experience across over 800 metres. The night will start with a quick briefing to help you get to grips with the track, the rules, and how to get the most out of your kart. We’ll then hit the track for **two high-powered 15-minute races,** with a break in between so you can catch your breath. Once the racing’s done, there’s a podium to pose on if you manage to race your way to glory and the option to stick around in the venue’s bar to swap stories, share tactics, and toast your victories (or near misses). Best of all, we've managed to secure a better than half price deal - so that this experience is just **£21.50pp!** These karting nights are always great fun and don't come around very often, and so hopefully see you there! \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- **WHERE/WHEN** To start the event, we will be meeting at the venue **from 7:45pm.** However, we'd ask that you **arrive no later than 8:00pm**, so that we can get the karting started on time. Pub Address: TeamSport Go Karting Docklands, 3 Herringham Rd, London SE7 8NJ ([https://g.co/kgs/3T2fUas](https://g.co/kgs/3T2fUas)) Nearest Stations: Charlton (10 min walk), North Greenwich (Bus required) End Time: 10:00PM (Approx) **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **WHAT TO WEAR** The venue encourages racers to wear comfortable clothes with lots of stretch in them - avoid anything too tight, thick, or loose. As for footwear, trainers are ideal but please avoid open-toed shoes, heels, and sandals as these are not allowed. Race suits, helmets, and gloves are provided but you’ll need to bring a balaclava or **buy a reusable one on the day for £3.99.** Long hair must be tucked into a longer balaclava, and jewellery or loose accessories must be removed for safety. For more FAQs, visit: [www.team-sport.co.uk/go-karting-faqs](https://www.team-sport.co.uk/go-karting-faqs) **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **JOIN THE COMMUNITY** Set up in November 2021, our 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://instagram.com/great.friendship](https://instagram.com/great.friendship)**

**Metropolitan Walkers is part of the Ramblers, Britain's walking charity. All welcome for 3 'taster' walks, after which please join the Ramblers - info on the [Met Walkers website](https://www.metropolitan-walkers.org.uk/how-to-join/)** Starting in the shadow of the Tower we'll walk through St. Katherine's to Wapping then back to the river before crossing Tower Bridge and walking up to London Bridge passing The Monument and heading up Bishopsgate to Liverpool Street, and a pub at the end. Start: Tower Hill underground station End: Liverpool Street Distance: 5 miles Details: [Metropolitan Walkers](https://www.metropolitan-walkers.org.uk/walks/)

Important - Please Read ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Welcome to London's Highest Rated International Languages Exchange group with over 1300 reviews rated 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🇬🇧🇪🇸🇫🇷🇯🇵🇮🇹🇩🇪🇮🇳🇧🇷🇰🇷🇨🇳🇪🇬🇭🇰🇺🇦🇺🇸🇹🇷🇹🇼🇷🇺🇵🇱 To learn more about us and our community visit [www.languages.london](https://www.languages.london/) WHEN & WHERE Join us on Wednesday for our midweek global language exchange and social from 7pm. The venue is the Craft Beer Co. in Hammersmith, a really friendly pub with a great selection of drinks (especially beers!) including non-alcoholic options and excellent access to public transport. HOW WE DO IT It's simple .... \~ When you arrive please collect your personalised language badge from us, **BEFORE** you order your drinks. We'll be waiting to give you a warm welcome 😃 \~ Please wear your badge during the event and return it before you leave. \~ Start meeting the community and having fun, lots of fun! Confirm your place to attend. There's a small fee of £2, which you can pay when you arrive. Please 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. This is **not** a dating event. Our events are open to Internationals, Locals, Expats, Students, Travellers..... Everyone! 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 family, friends and colleagues 💙 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. These are real events with real people. We aren't one of those groups that fill our events with fictitious attendees👻. We want to remain the **BEST** language events group in London, being the biggest isn't our focus. **No-shows at our events are removed from the group.** **Inactive members are also 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, Gaelic, Icelandic, 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 if know 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 - [www.languages.london](https://www.languages.london/) We're looking forward to welcoming you at Languages in London 😊😃👋 🇲🇰🇳🇵🇧🇩🇵🇭🇦🇪🇦🇱🇧🇪🇮🇪🇲🇹🇰🇿🇱🇦🇯🇴🇱🇹🇱🇻🇪🇪🇰🇭🇨🇱🇲🇳🇨🇺

We welcome 2026 with our annual new years debate looking to the year ahead. Join Debate London for our first debate of 2026! This time we present a crowd favourite! **A Balloon Debate!** A free-for-all debating event where our panel of debaters must compete for your vote each round or be voted off stage! For the nights events we will be asking ourselves what do we think is the most likely to occur over the course of 2026 pulled from a recurring lists of things that may happen in 2026. sneak peak at a couple of predictions sitting in our crystal ball this year includes a return to the moon and a return to peace in eastern Europe. **WHAT IS A BALLOON DEBATE?** A light-hearted debate format which sees a panel of 5 or 6 debaters go head to head to stay in the balloon over a series of rounds in which panellists are voted off one at a time until only the winner remains. Normally, they are assigned a celebrity figure to represent, but anything goes and in past debates, speakers have represented everything from terrible Christmas gifts to the Seven Sins. **WHAT IS THIS ONE GOING TO BE ABOUT?** Predictions for the year to come - not all of the possibilities (that would take way too long) but 5 or 6 - specifically selected from a range of tabloid, magazine and blog prediction lists. **HOW WILL IT WORK?** Our panellists will be challenged to debate each other in a range of different styles each round, including: \- only being allowed to talk up their prediction in round 1 \- only being allowed to talk down the other predicitions in round 2 \- Q&A with the audience in round 3 (where you get involved) \- freestyle debate in the final round A blend of comedic timing and critical thinking (aka wit) will prove vital as they will be expected to make well thought-out arguments, but - since it is a social - will most likely be judged by how entertaining you, the audience, find them. **Venue** Our venues serve food and drink (both alcholic and non-alcoholic) **Please do not bring external food and drink on site - you WILL be asked to throw them away**

Our regular table is in the middle of the pub. It 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.** ‘The greatest quiz ever to take place in Putney’ - The Spotted Horse website. Would you like to join our group at The Spotted Horse’s pub quiz on Wednesday evening? Putney Social Group has reserved seating for 8. This group event has prizes on offer including a £50 bar tab for the winning group and a golden question jackpot! It consists of 50 general knowledge questions with a break halfway. This is a very popular event, and regularly enjoys capacity attendance. The charge is £2 cash or QR code payable to the pub’s quizmaster. Please aim to arrive at 7:30pm as the quiz starts at about 8pm. Please cancel your reservation if you cannot attend. By way of information, wheelchair access is available at the right-hand side of the venue and the venue also has accessible toilets available on the ground floor. Nearest Public Transport: Train: Putney Tube: East Putney (District Line, Wimbledon Branch) Bus: 14, 37, 85, 93, 337, 430, N74. It takes about 5 minutes to walk to the venue from the train station. I look forward to seeing you at the Greatest Pub Quiz in Putney!

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

**Welcome to The Connection Game. Meet people you didn’t know you needed to meet.** **Description:** After the success of our Connection Game, we’re back for more! Step into a warm, playful space full of curiosity, interaction, and fun. *The Connection Game* isn’t your usual meetup — it’s a facilitated, interactive experience where playful activities and prompts let you share, discover, and enjoy moments with others in ways you haven’t tried before. Expect prompts that encourage conversation, light playful activities, and fun discoveries about the people around you. You might reveal something about yourself, notice unexpected things in others, or uncover surprising commonalities. **Schedule:** * **7:30–8:30 PM –** 👥 **Arrival & Casual Mingling** Step in, settle in — the night is just beginning, and connections are waiting. * **8:30–10:00 PM –** 🎲 **The Connection Game** Share, explore, and enjoy conversations in unexpected, playful ways. Laugh, interact, and experience it fully — we won’t say much more. Come and see for yourself. * **10:00–11 PM** **–** ✨ **Chill & Vibe** After the curated part ends, keep talking, laughing, and enjoying the people around you. * **11:00 PM–2:00 AM – 💃 Late Night Hangout** If you’d like to continue the evening with us, we’ll head over to Be at One, Monument to keep the night flowing and share more fun moments together. **Crewhaus Exclusive:** 🍸 We’ve secured **2-for-£12 cocktails** **all night** at Be at One — exclusively for Crewhaus members! **Ready to find your crew and share laughs, stories, and new experiences? Join us at The Connection Game!** **Event details:** * **Where:** The Hydrant, London EC3R 8BG We’ve got our own space for the night! We will then head over to Be at One, London EC4R 9AT where we got our own reserved area (3 min-walk from The Hydrant). * **When:** The event runs from 7:30 PM to 2:00 AM. Please arrive by 8:30 PM at the latest to fully experience the evening — each moment builds on the last. **Why You Should Join:** At CrewHaus, we don’t just talk about connection – we make it happen. Come experience it for yourself in a stimulating, fun, and safe environment. Don’t worry about coming by yourself – it’s encouraged (and the purpose of this event!) **Stay connected beyond the event!** . 📸 Follow our **[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/the_crewhaus/)** page to catch the highlights, stories, and event updates 💬 Join our **[WhatsApp community](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Lcorasf3ocUBFmBmhXeHho)** for updates and announcements **Community Guidelines:** We’re all about good vibes and real connections. We ask that everyone treats each other with kindness, respect, and an open mind. It's simple: be cool, be yourself, and let others do the same. Let’s keep it fun, welcoming, and awesome for everyone!

Have you ever wanted to be immersed within either the city or nature in the form of a walk and socialise at the same time? If so, this may be the right walk for you. Welcome to another one of the WALK events where you have the opportunity to explore all the scenic routes I’ll execute whether there’s nature within, whether we get immersed within the city and feel great about yourself. 
With this particular walk, we will be walking down one of the main roads from north London to east central London. To be precise, we’re walking from Silver Street to Liverpool Street. Knowing this high road, it’s meant to be Turkish oriented on the Tottenham side but as we go along, there’s more than meets the eye as we cut through Dalston kingsland through to Shoreditch which consists of quite the social/night life. Finally we finish off at Liverpool Street where it’s mostly touristic. It’s amazing how one long road connects to east central London. After this, if you still want to stick around, we’ll can go to either Spitalfields for dinner, Yauatcha for some Japanese patisserie, The hummingbird bakery or any other recommendation. We’ll let democracy decide. You don’t have to but if you enjoyed the event and if you want, I’m more than happy to accept optional donations. Even if you donate £1, it helps not only myself but you guys too by unlocking pathways for even more potential events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy 
Starting point: Silver street
Ending point: Liverpool Street
Walking length: 6.8 miles
Duration: 2 hours +
Required clothing: Smart casual, comfortable shoes and a jacket in case it gets cold
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. 
WHAT - High street walk
WHERE - Silver Street to Liverpool Street
WHEN - 2pm - 7pm
MEETING POINT - Outside Silver Street Overground station
NEAREST STATION - Silver Street station
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. PRECAUTIONS - This is quite a long walk so do be sure if you want to partake in the walk.
 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. 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.

PLEASE NOTE APPROX 25-30 MEMBERS WILL BE ON THE WALK, NOT WHAT IS ADVERTISED, AS ONLY ABOUT HALF THE MEMBERS TURN UP WITH MOST MEETUP GROUPS. Hi all, cost & info below, a healthy 5.5 mile circular incredible afternoon's walk amongst the beautiful canals of Old Street and find out some brief local history along the way and meet new friends. We will go to very rare areas of London you may have never seen. (**After this walk, there is a lantern-led night short walk. If you link both the walks together, the evening walk is HALF PRICE! The latter walk leaves from the same station. There is a break in between the walks to eat or drink locally before the next walk)** Daytime Walk: We have some Banksy Art without being behind perspex glass, did you know many roads in London in the days of horse carriages were made of wood? We will see the last piece of road left. The grave of William Blake (Jerusalem hymn) and Daniel Defoe (Robinson Crusoe) in a beautiful old victorian cemetery, the area of St Lukes, an incredible stroll along unknown parts of Regents Canal where we stop for a break, buy some cakes and use facilities, the charm of Hoxton Square, the first methodist preaching house, 30 ft murals and other stunning great art for the photographers in the group, also a delightful historic pub and some hidden gems! **WHERE TO MEET** \*\*(Please allow 15 minutes to arrive before departure time)\*\*Please meet outside the front of Liverpool Street Mainline Rail Station by Kindertransport Statue which sits outside the front of the station by McDonald's, directly opposite Liverpool St underground station, Vodafone & Costa Pronto shops. (Please Note: Not Hamilton Hall Wetherspoons pub entrance) **COST** £10 cash/card payment by simply turning up on the day. There is no charge to RSVP beforehand on the Meetup event. Walks are normally 90% full before the day, so an early RSVP is advisable to avoid disappointment. **AFTER SOCIAL DRINKS/MEAL (For attendees of the walk only sorry)** Eastway Brasserie. Table reserved for 18 persons. 40 Liverpool Street, EC2M 7QN. Old Street was recorded as Ealdestrate in about 1200, and le Oldestrete in 1373. The road is of ancient origin, it lies on the route of an old Roman connecting Silchester and Colchester Hoxton "Hogesdon" is first recorded in the Domesday Book, meaning an Anglo-Saxon farm (or "fortified enclosure") belonging to Hoch, or Hocq. Shoreditch In the 16th century, Shoreditch was an important centre of the Elizabethan Theatre. During the 17th century, wealthy traders and French Huguenot silk-weavers moved to the area, establishing a textile industry centered to the south around Spitalfields. **ABOUT OUR 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 50 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!

PLEASE NOTE APPROX 25-30 MEMBERS WILL BE ON THE WALK, NOT WHAT IS ADVERTISED, AS ONLY ABOUT HALF THE MEMBERS TURN UP WITH MOST MEETUP GROUPS. Hi all, cost & info below, for centuries people have roamed at night through the dark alleys of London, so please join everyone for a fun 2.5 mile walk, Lost London walk around Spitalfields and Whitechapel by Lantern in the dark! Some brief local info along the way, it has wonderful hidden areas and I will show you the colourful highlights, lost alleyways and simply amazing things to see! (**Before this walk, in the daytime there is a wonderful walk that leaves from the same station. If you link both the walks together, the evening walk is HALF PRICE! There is a break in between the walks to eat or drink locally before the next walk)** Lantern Walk: The oldest Georgian shopfront in the whole of London, a secret large medieval chapel underneath a shopping precinct, amazing ghost sign shops from the Huguenot's period, a medieval mounted knight on a horse A pub from where a bride died on her wedding day and her ‘husband to be’ was so grieved he closed the function room with all the contents for nearly 200 years in a time capsule, a street made up of alphabet signs, the haunt of Jack the Ripper’s Ten Bells pub where he picked up his victims. A stunning Victorian bathhouse, incredible secret alleyways, a 2000-year-old young Roman girl buried at the Gerkin, a home with an interior and exterior dating to the 1700's, several old cobbled streets, Wesley home from the 1600's and to top it off an impressive absolutely giant fish tank! Great Atmospheric Restaurant afterward for a social get-together where food and drinks are available **WHERE TO MEET** **(Please allow 15 minutes to arrive before departure time)** Please meet outside the front of Liverpool Street Mainline Rail Station by the Kindertransport Statue which sits outside the front of the station by McDonald's, directly opposite Liverpool Street underground station, Vodafone and Costa Pronto shops. (Please Note: Not Hamilton Hall Wetherspoons pub entrance) Walk starts and ends at Liverpool Street Station Toilets entrance is located downstairs of the station by Camden Food Co **COST** £10 cash/card payment by simply turning up on the day. There is no charge to RSVP beforehand on the Meetup event. Walks are normally 90% full before the day, so an early RSVP is advisable to avoid disappointment. **AFTER SOCIAL DRINKS/MEAL (For attendees of the walk only sorry)** Eastway Brasserie. Table reserved for 18 persons. 40 Liverpool Street, EC2M 7QN. **ABOUT OUR 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 50 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!

**READ CAREFULLY to AVOID ANY DISAPPOINTMENT** This hike is not suitable for beginners to Hiking. If you are a total beginner to Hiking avoid this event or speak with the host before you commit yourself. We do have Spaces available. We are not full. However for this event we will kindly ask you to join the waitlist and then follow the information below on how to secure a spot and then we will move you to the going list after you have joined the WhatsApp Room for this event. This is to ensure health and safety regulations are adhered to for the group Hike. **This is a FREE event. No charge.** **** **TO SECURE YOUR Participation:** **Send a screenshot of your profile photo via WhatsApp to WhatsApp number 075 90919391 with a short intro message to secure your spot on this hike** You will have to join the WhatsApp Room for this event to secure your spot.** **🌳 Surrey Hills AONB 12-Mile Circular Hike – History, Hills & Hidden Gems! 🥾** ⏰ Meet Time: 8:10 AM at London Waterloo Station (for GroupSave train tickets) 🚆 Train: Departs \~8:30 AM → Arrives Guildford around 9:30–9:45 AM 📍 Start & Finish: Guildford Station (Start 10:00 AM – Finish approx. 5:30 PM) 📏 Distance: Approx. 12 miles (19 km) 🥾 Difficulty: Moderate – mostly gentle with some hilly sections. Difficulty is considered moderate if you have past experience in Hiking. But if you are a total beginner in Hiking or you are not in good shape and you struggle on long distance walks (5 to 6 hour long walks) then this hike will not be suitable for you. ⛰️ Terrain: Woodland trails, chalk hills, riverside paths (can be muddy in places). \-\-\- 🌄 **About the Surrey Hills AONB** Welcome to one of England’s most stunning landscapes — the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 🌿. Designated in 1958, this protected region forms part of the North Downs, a chain of chalk hills stretching from Farnham to Dover. Known for its rolling hills, ancient woodlands, hidden valleys, and open farmland, the Surrey Hills has inspired writers, artists, and poets for centuries — including Jane Austen and John Keats, who admired its peaceful scenery. The area is dotted with historic churches, medieval ruins, and charming English villages, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and heritage. \-\-\- 🥾 ***About the Hike*** This 12-mile circular route begins and ends at Guildford Station, taking us through some of the most beautiful and historically fascinating spots in the Surrey Hills. Expect sweeping countryside views, peaceful woodland paths, and plenty of photo stops along the way 📸. We’ll be exploring: ***⛪ St Martha’s Church on the Hill*** Our trail will take us up to St Martha’s Church, one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Surrey Hills. Sitting high on St Martha’s Hill, this historic church dates back to the 12th century, and offers breathtaking panoramic views across the North Downs and the Weald. The church, dedicated to St Martha of Bethany, was once a medieval pilgrimage site on the Old Pilgrims’ Way between Winchester and Canterbury. To this day, people visit for its spiritual tranquillity, spectacular scenery, and peaceful atmosphere — it’s truly a magical spot 🌄✨. ***💥 Chilworth Gunpowder Mills*** Deep in the woods near Chilworth lies the Chilworth Gunpowder Mills, a fascinating glimpse into England’s industrial past. Founded in the 1620s, these mills produced gunpowder for over 300 years, supplying the British military during the Napoleonic Wars and World War I ⚔️. Today, the site is a scheduled ancient monument, with beautiful riverside paths winding among moss-covered ruins and information boards that bring history to life. It’s a peaceful yet powerful reminder of the area’s contribution to Britain’s past 💣🌿. 🍇 ***Passing a Famous Vineyard*** During our route, we’ll pass by one of Surrey’s well-known vineyards, where the gentle slopes and chalky soil make ideal conditions for English sparkling wine production. The views across the vines are simply stunning — perfect for a photo stop 📷🍷. ***🏰 Guildford Town & Castle*** We’ll also spend some time exploring Guildford, a charming market town rich in history. The highlight is Guildford Castle, built shortly after the Norman Conquest by William the Conqueror’s son. Its tower and gardens are beautifully preserved, offering a lovely spot to end our day 🏰🌸. \-\-\- **🍽️ Lunch & Breaks** We’ll stop for lunch around 12:30–1:00 PM near a scenic viewpoint or quiet picnic area. Please bring your own packed lunch 🥪, plenty of snacks, and at least 2 litres of water 💧. There will be regular short breaks for rest, refreshments, and photos throughout the day 📸. \-\-\- **🎒 What to Bring** ✅ Comfortable hiking boots or waterproof shoes (can be muddy!) ✅ 2 litres of water minimum 💧 ✅ Packed lunch & snacks 🍏 ✅ Weather-appropriate clothing (rain jacket, layers, sun protection 🌦️) ✅ A small backpack 🎒 ✅ Good vibes and a friendly smile 😊 **BRING A TORCH 🔦 OR A HEAD TORCH 🔦** JUST IN CASE WE FINISH THE FINAL STRETCH OF THE HIKE AFTER SUNSET. \-\-\- **🚆 Travel Plan** We’ll meet at London Waterloo Station at 8:10 AM to arrange GroupSave train tickets (to get discounted fares 💸). The train departs around 8:30 or 8:50 AM, arriving in Guildford around 9:35–9:45 AM. We’ll start hiking at 10:10 AM sharp. Return trains from Guildford to London run frequently (every 15–20 minutes). \-\-\- **🌿 Highlights of the Day** ✨ Explore the beautiful Surrey Hills AONB ⛪ Visit the historic St Martha’s Church 💥 Discover the Chilworth Gunpowder Mills 🍇 Walk past a beautiful Surrey vineyard 🏰 Visit Guildford Castle & historic town centre 🌄 Enjoy breathtaking countryside views 🤝 Meet like-minded hikers & outdoor lovers \-\-\- **💚 Why Join Us?** 🌞 A full day of hiking, history, and nature 🏞️ One of England’s most beautiful countryside areas 📖 Learn about local heritage while exploring scenic trails 🥾 A great moderate challenge (12 miles) 🌿 Perfect for nature lovers & photographers alike \-\-\- ***✨ Join Us for an Unforgettable Day in the Surrey Hills!*** *Escape the city, breathe the fresh country air, and explore the historic heart of the Surrey Hills AONB with friendly, like-minded hikers.* *Let’s make memories, discover hidden history, and enjoy one of England’s most scenic hiking routes together 🌳💚* 👉 **RSVP early – limited spaces for this countryside adventure!** *** **💬 Why You’ll Love It** **This hike is perfect for:** 🌿 Nature lovers who enjoy scenic countryside walks 📸 Photographers looking for stunning panoramic views 💪 Hikers wanting a moderate challenge near London 🤝 Anyone keen to meet friendly, like-minded outdoor people *** **💚 Let’s Go!** Escape the city and spend a day exploring one of England’s most beloved natural landmarks. Fresh air, gorgeous views, and great company — what more could you ask for? 🌞 **👉 RSVP early to secure your spot!** **(Similar events often fill up fast!)** Host Is First Aid Trained. Host Is experienced and qualified hiking and Mountain Leader. \-\-\- **Meeting Point** Meet under the main Central Clock. London Waterloo station 8.15 am prompt - for the 9.00am train to guildford. Try to get there earlier than 8:20 am so you will have time to find the group. From Guildford Station we will walk The North Downs Way to Martha’s Hill and more. Enjoy the Outdoors. Relaxed pace (2 miles per hour). ............... **By purchasing the Train tickets in groups of 3 or more people together we will save 30% on Train tickets.** **Your return group train travel will be approx. £14 per person from London Waterloo Station.** You can also meet us at Guildford train station at 9.35 or travel by car and park in various paid car parks in Guildford. This is down to you to find and meet us outside Guildford Train Station at 9.35 am Prompt. Planned arrival time back to London Waterloo will be 6:30 to 7:00 pm. **Please join the whatsApp Group. So you can communicate with each other on the day of the event. So you can find each other. 07590 919391** **Our hike will take us through beautiful countryside, expansive open woodlands along the River Way. Guildford is famous for its historic buildings and cobbled street, of which we will see many, there are truly breathtaking views from St Martha’s Hill for as far as you can see.** ............... **Difficulty level** **Intermediate Level** **Hiking time:** 6 hours moving time. 7 hours when You include the photo breaks in between. Distance 12 miles. Some 3 or 4 steep hilly areas. **What to bring** Suitable hiking clothes & footwear - ideally hiking shoes. Hat gloves if cold, water proof jacket and trousers. Dress appropriately for the weather. **Hiking boots are advisable. Some areas during the hike will be dense and muddy.** Clarification on the weather will be posted Via WhatsApp nearer to the day. Probability of rainfall is not important. Volume of rainfall expected is more important information than probability of rainfall.

Welcome! 😊 You can join us for a **unique experience** where you'll be allocated to a gathering/group **based on your interests** (more details on this below!). Come unwind, meet new people, and enjoy some drinks in a relaxed setting. Whether you're looking to make new connections or simply unwind after a long week, this event is perfect for you. **Here's how it works...** ✨ 1. **IMPORTANT:** To attend and be matched with a gathering, answer our quick, personality & interests quiz on [OkGather.com](https://OkGather.com) to become a member (*includes gatherings every week - you must be a member to attend*) 💭 🪄 2. We carefully match you with a gathering of amazing people 🫂 📍 3. We book the table for around 10 people in your gathering at a great venue & let you know **your** **venue** **& table details** (venues will be near the station mentioned in location section) 🥂 🎉 4. All you have to do is show up and have a great time! 🥳 If you have any questions, please email info@okgather .com It's the perfect way to meet people with similar interests and expand your network/social circle (while having a lot of fun!). Save your seat now at [OkGather.com](https://OkGather.com)

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

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

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!

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Java Central Café and Roaster](https://javacentral.coffee/)**!**