Social and Cultural Outings

Putney Social Group’s mission is to help our members meet people and make new friends. Please join us on Thursday the 30th of April for our popular “Speed Friends” event at The Railway, Putney. [Early bird tickets here](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/putney-social-speed-friends-night-tickets-1986517291695?aff=oddtdtcreator). Speed friends events are a fun way to meet a lot of people in a relaxed environment, and hopefully achieve this! We have reserved the entire first floor of The Railway at this spacious and elegant venue, opposite Putney Train station. We have a large open space suitable for 100 to 150 people with its own bar, so let’s try to fill it! Please note: This venue does not have lift access to the first floor. Our Speed Friends events are the perfect way to meet people and make new friends, in particular for new members, as they are a fun way of meeting lots of new people in one night! If you are coming on you own, please don’t worry as Daniel and Ashley, your friendly and welcoming hosts, will be there to greet you and ensure you get lots of friendly introductions. The format is as follows: We invite people to sit at a table in small groups of four people. We encourage these small groups to chat for approximately 25 minutes, and then we swap everyone around by moving to a new table (to meet more people) after that. Any late arrivals will be asked to wait at the bar and you will be included in the next table swap. You are guaranteed to meet lots of new people in one night, in a relaxed and friendly way! PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a speed dating event. Please rsvp on this meetup page and buy your ticket on the following Eventbrite link (for which there is an early bird discount!) to attend this special event: [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/putney-social-speed-friends-night-tickets-1986517291695](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/putney-social-speed-friends-night-tickets-1986517291695) By way of information, this is a strictly ticketed event only. Any attendees who arrive not having a ticket will not be granted admission. Due to the substantial interest in attending the event, both Daniel and Ashley would be most grateful if you could please cancel your reservation should you find you cannot attend to give others the opportunity to participate. Your hosts are looking forward to welcoming and meeting everybody on the night! Thanks, Daniel and Ashley contact@putneysocial.co.uk 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.

The **IN-PERSON** Fandorica returns on **Thursday 30th April 2026 from 6pm onwards till late!** That's **Thursday 30th April 2026.** So please do join us for what will hopefully be a day long remembered! We plan on being there till late. So if you can't pop along at the start, then join us when it's convenient for you! It'll all be very relaxed with a welcoming atmosphere. The idea is simply to bring people who have a shared love of all things geek together for a good time! It's all about meeting people and making new friends! Trust me, you won't need an encyclopedic knowledge! Ultimately, it's going to be you all that will make it what it is. Feel free to chat about anything you like! Be as silly or serious as you want! So whatever you're into... Doctor Who, Marvel, DC, Star Wars, The Last Of Us, Stranger Things, Cobra Kai, Disney, Supernatural, Comics, Films, Books, Board Games, D&D, etc, I'm sure we'll all have something in common to talk about! Chat about anything you fancy! Please do RSVP to confirm that you're coming along. If you RSVP to the meetup, you'll also get updated quickly if any details change. So hopefully see many of you at the Fandorica! To make sure that everyone has a fantastic time at the Fandorica meetups, please do familiarise yourselves with the Fandorica Etiquette which can be found here: [https://bit.ly/fandoricaetiquette](https://bit.ly/fandoricaetiquette) **The Fandorica meetups are free to attend for everyone. However Meetup itself does charge a fee to the organiser for the service. So if you enjoy coming along to the Fandorica meetups and want to help keep them running, then you can donate via the Fandorica PayPal page: [paypal.me/fandorica](paypal.me/fandorica).** **Donations to help keep the Fandorica meetups running are optional but every penny helps!** **\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*** **The Mad Hatter is a great meetup pub and we're lucky to be getting it, so can I please also kindly request that you do buy some drinks and snacks at the bar since that makes it worth their while hosting us!** **\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*** As always, you can contact me by either messaging me on here or via the following ways: Website: http://www.fandorica.co.uk Instagram: TheFandorica (https://www.instagram.com/thefandorica) Bluesky: Fandorica.bsky.social Mobile: 07463 621 754 (WhatsApp preferred). See you at a Fandorica soon! :)

The London MBTI Meetup is back! Calling all those with an interest in personality, Jung's psychological types and the Myers-Briggs MBTI. Join us for a pub social and live talk in a lovely traditional pub venue. Expect interesting conversations on topics of shared interest. Whether you are new to type theory or a long time professional, all welcome, no particular knowledge or expertise required. Jungian Analyst-in-training and business consultant Nick Toko will give a live talk / presentation including some slides at around 7pm for 20 mins. The topic will be 'When Does Personality Rigidity Become a Disorder?' He will explore some of the differences between healthy adaptable personality and the more extreme and rigid presentations that might arise in a clinical setting. Myself (Richard: a professional coach with an MSc in business psychology and many personality assessment qualifications), will be there to welcome, host and introduce people. The venue is just 8 mins walk from Farringdon Station (multiple rail and tube lines) or 6 mins walk from Chancery Lane (Central Line). We will be in the upstairs room. I've set the time 6-10pm so people can come straight from work in London OR come along later after going home or travelling into London. No need to be there for the whole time. Please RSVP, and keep it up to date. Make the commitment to turn up, it will be fun!

**Socialise, mix & mingle, enjoy conversations, make connections, admiring iconic views of St Paul's in the background of this fantastic rooftop. BOOK VIA LINK : [https://fatso.ma/3zfr](https://fatso.ma/3zfr) or [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/social-networking-for-doctors-lawfinance-it-professionals-iconic-rooftop-tickets-1987000308411?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/social-networking-for-doctors-lawfinance-it-professionals-iconic-rooftop-tickets-1987000308411?aff=oddtdtcreator) *RSVP TOO PLEASE!*** Mix and mingle with ladies and gentlemen alike, professionals in law, finance, IT, medical doctors, scientists, with high expectations, demanding professional and fast paced, hectic lifestyle in general, with limited time and opportunities to chill out, socialise and connect. **Seize the opportunity to enrich your social life with like minded people and why not, trust in perfect synchronicities of the right people at the right time and place getting together.** Make new acquaintances, catch up potentially with who you might have met in a previous event, interact with all attendees, engage in fascinating stories. **Make a friend, maybe find someone special that can make your heart sing or simply go out & about, indulge in handcrafted cocktails and mocktails in this amazing venue.** Approach with the best smile on your face, make a first best impression, set the vibe, see it reflected back to you! **This is a hosted event where you can be** **introduced** **to like minded** **people** **and see what can potentially happen** **next!** **The DJ is setting an uplifting vibe as** **Thursday is the new Friday after all!** **HOW TO FIND :** **Come to SABINE ROOFTOP on top of LEONARDO ROYAL HOTEL St PAULS,** **Once upstairs, ask for Eleni's booking.** ***Please arrive at or about 19:00 and be in the flow of the introductions.*** **ELENI is hosting this event, making sure all guests are welcomed, introduced to each other and included throughout the evening.** **Welcome to Sabine Rooftop Bar, with stunning St Paul’s views from its terrace, where every day feels like the golden hour elevating your experience for those who know how to live in the moment, Bringing in its unique style, offering memorable experiences to kick start your weekend.** Dress Code: Smart Casual Refunds only in case of the event being cancelled

**♔ In London (1994), an unseen narrator, voiced by Paul Scofield, returns to the British capital after several years abroad to accompany his reclusive friend Robinson on a series of reflective urban explorations.** **Hey Guys!** Let's meet for an exciting series of three walks around diverse areas of the city, their observations mix personal insight with encounters and images drawn from real life, capturing the city’s architecture, public spaces, and cultural landmarks. The narrative bridges memory, literature, and everyday experience as it recounts events and social change in London over the course of a year. More than a straightforward travelogue, London unfolds as a cinematic **essay on the character and transformation of the city itself**, using archival imagery and evocative narration to weave in political and historical context. References to **literary figures and philosophical ideas** subtly shape the film’s impressionistic portrait, linking the lived environment with broader cultural currents and the lived realities of early 1990s London. Runtime: 85 mins. Certificate: 18 We'll meet at **The Nickel Cinema**, the heir apparent to the historical **Scala**, which is the home to the most subversive, bewildering, sensational, fearless, sublime, shocking, transgressive, death-defying, psychedelic, psychotronic, bizarre, rebellious and baffling cinematic treasures - from the silent era to the digital age. **Check out the details below—I'll see you all there!** **Ray** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 👉 **HEADS UP** * If you **sign up** but later can’t make it, please 🙏 **just drop me a quick message** (or change your RSVP) — it really helps with planning. You can also follow our club **[@movieroadhouseuk](https://www.instagram.com/movieroadhouseuk/)** on **Instagram** — for fun updates! **🗓️ SCHEDULE BREAKDOWN** * **6:00 PM:** Drinks (The Nickel Cinema Basement Bar) * **6:30 PM:** The Nickel Cinema * **8:00 PM:** Review 📱**STAY CONNECTED** * Join our WhatsApp or Telegram groups (available by request), or hop onto our **[WhatsApp Channel](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaMVu2Z1NCrYkXpqOd1X)** or **[Telegram Channel](https://t.me/movieroadhouse)**[ ](https://t.me/movieroadhouse)for quiet updates without the chat. Whatever you prefer! 🎬 **PLOT DETAILS** * The character's experiences of the city are structured through a series of three walks around London, taking in Vauxhall, Brixton Market, Brent Cross Shopping Centre, Putney, Clapham Common and Stoke Newington. The narration includes numerous quotations from and references to writers and thinkers who have lived in London, including Edgar Allan Poe, Charles Baudelaire and Arthur Rimbaud.[ Trailer](https://youtu.be/2zgHBACzfkI) 🎟️ **TICKET INFO & PRICES** * **Ticket Price**: £11 * **Tickets:** [The Nickel Cinema](https://thenickel.co.uk/screening/295) 📍**VENUE ADDRESS** * **The Nickel Cinema:** 119 Clerkenwell Road, EC1R 5BY 🔊 **HOW WE ROLL** * Have fun, be respectful, and no abuse of any kind * Three-time no-show limit (applies after your first attended event), please update your RSVP if your plans change * This group is for over-18s only 🌐 **FOLLOW US ONLINE** * [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/movieroadhouseuk/) * [Letterboxd](https://letterboxd.com/movieroadhouse) * [WhatsApp News Channel](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaMVu2Z1NCrYkXpqOd1X) * [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/movieroadhouse) * [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@movieroadhouse) * [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/MovieRoadhouse) * [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/movieroadhouselondon) * [Threads](https://www.threads.com/@jonnyhideout) * [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jonnyhideout/) (Jonny) 🫂 **RELATED HANGOUTS** * [The Hideout: Film Club (London)](https://www.meetup.com/thehideoutlondon/) * [Cosmic Nightmares Book Club (London)](https://www.meetup.com/cosmicnightmareslondon) * [Ani-Mates: London Animation & Art Group](https://www.meetup.com/london-motion-design-and-animation-group/?eventOrigin=your_groups) * [Film & TV Review (London)](https://www.meetup.com/film-chat/?eventOrigin=your_groups) * [Event Horizon Film Club (North Virginia)](https://www.meetup.com/event-horizon-film-club/)

**\*\*TO BOOK GO HERE [https://dateinadash.com/events/london/mayfair/speed-dating/30Apr2026-7657](https://dateinadash.com/events/london/mayfair/speed-dating/30Apr2026-7657)\*\*** Go on 20 dates at our popular Thursday night [Speed Dating ](https://dateinadash.com)event at [Mercato Mayfair](https://mercatometropolitano.com/mercato-mayfair/) near Bond Street. This event is for ages 30-45 and has an equal ratio of men and women. Expect to meet a lots of single professionals at the best Speed Dating event in Mayfair on Thursday night. Easily one of our most popular events with a great crowd every week. Speed Dating kicks off at 8pm prompt and any guests arriving late may not be able to take part so please ensure you arrive 15-30 minutes before the scheduled start time to allow for registration. When all the guests have arrived the host will explain how the evening will unfold and you will be provided with a scorecard and pen. When the event begins women will be seated and men will rotate between tables every 4 minutes. At the end of each date guests mark on their scorecard or phone using our mobile website whether they would like to see that person again. The event will finish around 9:30pm but guests are welcome to stay and mingle if they wish. The following day we'll contact you with the results and you can communicate with anyone you've matched with through our website. Please be aware that speed dating places are limited and the majority of our events do sell out, so please book early to avoid disappointment. If you have any queries about this event please contact us at enquiries@dateinadash.com or call our telephone bookings hotline on 0845 862 1448 (9am 5pm).

Join us for a laid-back social evening at a local pub! 🍻 Enjoy great drinks, easy conversation, and a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of the city. Whether you're catching up with friends or meeting new faces, it’s the perfect way to spend your Saturday night. How it works : Vety simple, come and say Hi, connect with the attendees. ### Looking forward to meet you

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)**

🚨 Spoiler alert: We built the space we couldn’t find. A place where you can show up alone, say hi first, and meet new people naturally. If you’re ready to expand your circle, you’re in the right place. You can check us out on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/_balancers/) 📸🚨 Get ready for another Social🎉 Here’s the Plan: **7:30 PM – Find Your Team** As soon as the event begins, you’ll receive a card with simple instructions to help you find your teammates among the other attendees. It’s a fun and easy way to start conversations with people in the room. **08:15 PM – Team Challenges Begin** Once teams are formed, the challenges start. The first 3 teams to complete all three challenges win free shots🍹 No skills needed. Just jump in, have a laugh and work together. **09:00 PM – Open Social & Mingling** Once the challenges wrap up, the room opens up. This is the moment to mix, chat and get to know new people. **10:00 PM – Music** The DJ takes over and the night shifts into a more relaxed social vibe. Chat, dance and keep the connections going. ⚠️ Please note: Entry is not guaranteed after 10:00 PM **11:30 PM – After Party** For those who want to keep the night going, we’ll head to a venue close by for the after party. ⚠️Please bring ID if you plan to join the after party. ✨ Pro tip Try to arrive by 7:30 PM to enjoy the full experience. 🔹 Many people come alone. That’s completely normal here. 🔹 Our hosts are on the floor helping people meet and get involved. 🔹 Most attendees join through our app, so the Meetup “Going” list represents only a small portion of the actual crowd. **[📲 Download our app](https://onelink.to/balancers)** You can connect with people you meet, access ticket deals, track rewards and see the photo gallery from the night. **[💬 Join our WhatsApp Community](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IJKXDkwUTlmDsYTOCIUg7O)** for last-minute updates and reminders. **Our pillars are Openness, Respect, Inclusivity, Kindness and Authenticity**. *Attendance at this event is subject to our [Code of Conduct](https://www.balancers.app/code-of-conduct) and [Terms of Service](https://www.balancers.app/term-of-service). By joining, you may receive emails about Balancers events and community updates. You can unsubscribe at any time.*

Have you ever wanted to scout the city and learn more in depth about history and even spirituality? If so, this may be the right event for you. Welcome to the Haunted walking tour where all of this is possible. With this particular tour, I’ll be guiding you around Farringdon where they hold so much history be is modern or old, some of which will revolve around spirits, witchcraft, murders and much more. Here is a list of what we are to come across: * The old Bailey * Newgate prison * Viaduct Tavern * The Cock lane ghost * Smithfield * William Wallace execution site * Wat Tyler * The Rising sun * Charterhouse square * The Sutton arms * The clerkenwall explosion * The screaming spectre of Ann Naylor * The slaughtered lamb After the walking tour, we may either part ways or even do an aftermath within Farringdon if you wish. We’ll 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 Starting point: Farringdon station
Ending point: The slaughtered lamb
Duration of the tour: 1 hour +
Required clothing: If you want, you can wear costumes otherwise, warm comfortable clothing is fine.
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. 

WHAT - Haunted walking tour
WHERE - Farringdon
WHEN - 7pm - 9pm
MEETING POINT - Outside Farringdon Station near Timpsons
NEAREST STATION - Farringdon Station
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. Maybe bring ID if you decide to go to the pub.

 Disclaimers: I’m not a qualified tour guide but I’ll do my best to guide you around this tour. 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. 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.

**get outside and meet others without pressure** **what this is** a social meet-up in greenwich park **the vibe** easy, open, low-key **what’s included** group hangout space to chat optional extras depending on the day **who this is for** people who want a casual daytime social **how it works** arrive, find the group, say hi, settle in **why this one matters** simple events are often the easiest to say yes to **final note** weather dependent see you there 🌿 p.s. by attending, you agree to our [event terms & conditions](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vS3p3ZAhIoCyq3kHFEliu2NCaT8iHfz5E_nUxcUTr7rsDufU7x5BNB_Ta2BWqtTYX72rEAjBG2nOcze/pub)

**Hello, lovely people!** Join us for a relaxed spring walk through one of London’s most beautiful hidden spots - Isabella Plantation 🌸 Tucked away inside Richmond Park and originally developed in the 1950s, Isabella Plantation is a protected woodland garden. It’s especially stunning in spring, with blooming azaleas, peaceful ponds, and winding paths. We’ll ease into the day and move through nature at a comfortable pace - a simple escape from the city to unwind, chat, and enjoy the surroundings ✨ \*🏛 Optional early visit – 11:00 AM\* I’ll be starting a bit earlier at [Dorich House Museum](https://maps.app.goo.gl/tWno3JarnDXJLf62A), so if you’d like to join for a pre-walk visit, feel free to come along 😊 It’s a unique artist’s home and studio where we’ll likely spend around 30–45 minutes there before heading towards the park. From there, it’s about a 20–30 minute walk or bus to the plantation. 🌿 **Main meet point – 12:00 PM** 📍 **[Ladderstile Gate (Isabella Plantation entrance)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/37291UJHxHm9TdzQ8)** Arrive by 12:00 — we’ll start shortly after (around 12:10–12:20). 🌸 **Isabella Plantation walk** Expect vibrant spring blooms, quiet woodland paths, and plenty of scenic spots along the way. We’ll explore at an easy, social pace. ☕ **Cafe break (optional)** There’s a café in or near the plantation where we can pause, grab a coffee or snack, and rest a bit before deciding what to do next. 🌳 **Optional extended walk** After the break, those who feel like continuing can join for a further walk towards Richmond, explore more of the park or the area. Please dress comfortably for walking. Please mind your **personal belongings and social behaviour** \- the organiser accepts no liability\. Thank you 😊 🌦 **Weather note** We’ll keep an eye on the weather and confirm 24 hours before. If it’s light rain, the walk will still go ahead (just bring a jacket). If conditions are too heavy, we may reschedule.

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.