Social and Cultural Outings

Lets do this fantastic varied 12 mile walk in which we first walk along the disused Chichester Ship Canal, then by Chichester Marina and finally arrive at West Wittering beach after enjoying the amazing views of the estuary. At West Wittering we shall need take the bus back to Chichester at around 5.10pm and then the train back to London at around 6pm. Things to bring : packed lunch, water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and walking shoes or plus sunhat, suncream and sunglasses. As from 8.50am we shall buy group return train tickets for the train at 9.35am that arrives at 11.06am. Train ticket : Chichester return Or you may decide to drive. Walk shall commence at 11.15am. Meetup fee : £8 payable in cash or £6 by Friday in advance by bank transfer, details supplied upon request. You should be able to walk 2.5 miles per hour and have adequate and appropriate insurance for this type of activity. If you are not prepared to walk at this pace and to keep up with those in front then please change your rsvp. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no 07714250849.

Participation in group travel is optional. You may attend the hike using your own transport. The hike itself is free of charge. If you are attending this hike event: \-\-\- **EVENT** Hike from the Sea \| free 35k \(21m\) challenge 💪 \| Eastbourne to Lewes [[Link](https://www.meetup.com/freehiketogether/events/313646291/)] \-\-\- **DATE** Saturday 09 MAY 2026 📍 **LONDON GROUP TRAVEL** The event host **[AdrianB](https://www.meetup.com/members/287692462/)** will be present as a focal point for group travel. 08:00 – Meet at **[London Victoria ticket office](https://w3w.co/gear.deputy.orbit)** 08:15 – Leave meeting point and board the train 08:24 – Train departs London Victoria 09:53 – Arrival at Eastbourne \-\-\- **THIS OFFER APPLIES TO YOU IF** * You want to pay a £13 total travel cost for the entire day * You are happy to travel in a group of four * You understand that individual tickets cannot be issued * You will be travelling from London Victoria to Eastbourne and returning from Lewes to London Victoria \-\-\- **🚨ANYONE WHO HAS SIGNED UP TO GROUP TICKET BUT HAS NOT PAID WILL BE REMOVED FROM THE EVENT TO ALLOW OTHERS WHO ARE READY TO PAY TO TAKE THEIR PLACE.** \-\-\- **HOW IT WORKS** You pay the organiser £13 in advance\*\*. The organiser will purchase\*\* [group tickets](https://ticket.southernrailway.com/daysave/2026-05-09/VIC/4/) once a full group of four has been confirmed. If a group of four is not confirmed, your payment will be fully refunded and you will need to arrange your own travel. \-\-\- **REFUNDS** If a group of four is not confirmed, your payment will be fully refunded and you will need to arrange your own travel. Once tickets have been purchased from National Rail, refunds are not possible. \-\-\- **❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS** Q: What if I want to leave the group and travel on my own later? A: You cannot. You must remain with your group of four for the entire journey. Q: Will the organiser give me an individual ticket? A: No. The ticket issued is a group ticket and is valid only for four people travelling together. Q: Will the organiser give a group of four people a ticket? A: Yes. A group ticket will be provided as long as all four people stay together and travel together. Q: Who holds the group tickets, and how do we get through the barriers? A: The organiser will hold and present the tickets. We will pass through the barriers together as one group. Q: How much will it cost me on the day if I buy a return ticket with a Network Railcard? A: Around £24.95, so you will save about £12. \-\-\- **PAYMENT** Use payment link [https://monzo.com/pay/r/hike-together_daJqyL9Ev3ArvS](https://monzo.com/pay/r/hike-together_daJqyL9Ev3ArvS) Or direct payment to: Adrian Barnett trading as Hike Together Account number: 79677613 Sort code: 04-00-05 \-\-\- After completing payment, please send a private message to AdrianB confirming that payment has been made. Include your transaction ID and Meetup profile name so your bank account display name can be matched to your Meetup profile. \-\-\- **CONTACT** AdrianB: +44 (0) 7438 812 663 \-\-\- **CLOSING DATE** Sales close on Tuesday 5 May at noon, when the tickets will be purchased. \-\-\- **📍 LONDON GROUP TRAVEL MEETING POINT** The event host [AdrianB](https://www.meetup.com/members/287692462/) will be present as a focal point for group travel. 08:00 – Meet at [London Victoria ticket office](https://w3w.co/gear.deputy.orbit) 08:15 – Leave meeting point and board the train 08:24 – Train departs London Victoria 09:53 – Arrival at Eastbourne \-\-\- You may also join the group on the train at an intermediate station, such as Clapham Junction or East Croydon, to avoid travelling all the way to the main meeting point. However, you must first purchase a valid ticket to pass through the barriers at those stations when entering and exiting. \-\-\- **IMPORTANT** Please ensure you arrive at the meeting point on time. If you are not there when we leave to board the train, the group will proceed without you. \-\-\- **Group 1** Adrian - Paid Denise - Paid Emily - Paid Jane - Paid **Group 2** Ana - Paid Angela - Paid Ashvin - Paid Igor - Paid **Group 3** Clair - Paid Marianne - Paid Ranj - Paid Zyerak - Paid **Group 4** Roni - Paid Prabhoo - Paid Shan - Paid Katja - Paid **Group 5** Anne - Paid >>> Federica MimHee Kim - Paid Chris - Paid Ieva - Paid \-\-\- **NOTE** If you prefer to arrange your own group travel, you can purchase tickets directly from National Rail **[HERE](https://ticket.southernrailway.com/daysave/2026-05-09/VIC/4/)**.

**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 Richmond Socialites Please join me on Richmond Green for the annual Richmond May Fair. We'll choose a spot to use as our base, and come and go as we please to see all the stalls, the craft fair, watch the entertainment, dog show, and enjoy fabulous food and drink. If the sun is out it will be a lovely afternoon on The Green, possibly followed by some live music in a local pub, but that will be decided on the day. Tesco and M&S are nearby to buy drinks and food if you'd prefer. ***Please do not sign up then not turn up - I'll mark you as a no-show.*** Further details nearer the time, but please put the date in your diary and I'll be in touch. Sarah

🚨 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 – Meet Your Team** As you arrive, you’ll receive a coloured wristband placing you into one of the 4 teams for the night. 🔴 Red 🔵 Blue 🟢 Green 🟡 Yellow Your mission? Meet people, win challenges, score points and help your colour climb the live scoreboard projected during the event. **08:15 PM – Challenge Stations Open** Form small teams with people from your colour and go head to head against other teams at the challenge stations around the venue. Winning challenges earns points for your colour on the live scoreboard. No skills needed. Just jump in, mix with new people and have a laugh 🍹 **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.*

Join us for a beautiful Surrey walk that takes in attractive gardens and Churchill’s impressive Victorian country home. This is one of our favourite routes, combining ridges, woodland paths and quiet lanes, as well as commons, historic settlements and traditional cottages. While not particularly strenuous, it is a decent length walk, with a few short ups and downs along the way. We’ll pause for lunch at a café, where you can enjoy your own packed lunch and use the facilities, but we'll walk at a decent pace. Of course, we'll round things off with the option of a drink or two in the beautiful setting of Old Oxted. **SUMMARY (all info is approximate!)** **Distance**: 27km/17 miles circular route **Ascent**: 635 metres **Duration**: 6.5 hours walking **Grade**: Intermediate/Advanced, along good paths, quite long, with only a few short ascents **COST AND LOGISTICS** **Cost**: £10 **Start**: 9.40am Oxted Station **Finish**: 5.30pm Oxted Station / The Crown Inn pub **Recommended morning train from London** 09:07 Dep: London Bridge 09:36 Arr: Oxted or 08:50 Dep: London Victoria 09:31 Arr: Oxted **Recommended train ticket** Off-Peak Day Return to Oxted **REVIEWS** [Trip Advisor](https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186338-d19994843-Reviews-AAA_Hiking_Outdoor_Group-London_England.html) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews) \| [MeetUp](https://www.meetup.com/aaa-outdoor-hiking-adventure-travel/feedback-overview/) **PRICE INCLUDES** * Guided hike planned and led by an experienced AAA leader, trained in Outdoor First Aid. **PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** * Travel costs * Lunch, drinks or any refreshments * PayPal fees **RECOMMENDED KIT LIST** [(](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)[complete list](www.aaahiking.co.uk/kit-lists)[)](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist) * Suitable hiking shoes or boots * Packed lunch and snacks * Water - 2 litres recommended * Waterproof jacket and trousers (Please no jeans!) * Warm windproof layer e.g. Down/Primaloft/Fleece * Wicking base layer e.g. Polyester/Tencel/Merino **CANCELLING/REFUNDS** If you can no longer join the hike, please message the Host listed on here, and update your RSVP status to 'Not going', to allow others to take your place. If the hike is full, and you have messaged us and have changed your RSVP to 'Not going', we will refund you, less than the PayPal/Meetup fees. To obtain this, please email info@aaalondongroup.com **after the event**, with the email address you use on your PayPal account and transaction reference. If the hike is not full, unfortunately we will not be able to provide any refund. **QUESTIONS** If you have any other questions, please check visit our [FAQ page](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/frequently-asked-questions). If you are still unsure, contact the event Host shown on this page. We’ve run over 1,000 trips in the last 18 years, so you’re in good hands. That said, all participants (members and their guests) in any AAA Hiking event or activity are personally responsible for their fitness, safety and welfare, and must be equipped accordingly. If you have signed up for the event, you acknowledge and accept the AAA London Group Terms and Conditions. © AAA London Group Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted [FAQs](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/frequently-asked-questions) \| [Terms and Conditions](www.aaahiking.co.uk/terms-and-conditions) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/AAAhiking) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews)

Starting at Leigh on Sea, we join the Saffron Trail to Hadleigh Castle and continue to Adders Hill into Hadleigh Country Park with excellent views across the Thames Estuary. We continue through the Benfleet downs and return via Benfleet Creek following the sea wall past Three Tree Island to finish at Leigh-on-Sea with its famous cockle sheds, where you can join us for food and a drink or take the train back to London ### **🕘 Schedule & Meeting Info** * **Meeting Time:** 09:00 London Liverpool Street Station outside the main ticket office next to platform 10 *(alternatively you can meet us at the hike start point)* * **Train Departure:** 09:28 * **Tickets:** Return to Leigh On Sea * **Hike Start:** 10:20, Leigh on Sea Station * **Lunch:** pack lunch * **Estimated finish:** 16:30 Leigh on Sea Station **🎫 Train fare is not included – please purchase your own return ticket in advance or on the day. 🚆** ### **📍 Hike Overview** * **Grade: beginner** Beginner * **Hiking time:** 4.5 hrs with 1 hr for breaks * **Distance: km:** 16km * **Accent:** 230m * **Terrain:** footpaths and tracks through woodland and coastal creeks * **Pace:** Social with regular breaks * **Hike Leader:** Gary 07968585224 **🧭 Qualified, Insured Hike Leaders All GO London events are led by qualified, experienced, and fully insured hike leaders, trained in outdoor safety, navigation, and group management.** ### **🎒 What to Bring** **✅ Hiking boots or sturdy shoes ✅ Waterproof jacket suitable Layers for the weather and conditions ✅ Packed lunch & water ✅ Travelcard or contactless for London** ### **💬 What to Expect** **Our hikes are social, inclusive, and fun. Expect a welcoming community of Londoners, expats, solo walkers, professionals, and nature lovers. Most people join solo – and leave with new friends.** ### **✅ RSVP Now** **Spaces are limited – RSVP “Yes” to secure your place.** **Full event details, reminders, and updates will be emailed in advance.** ### **📲 Stay Connected 07968585224** **📩 Mailing List: [Go London](https://facecbc8d32d11ef94b85b7e672b1d18.eo.page/x267r)** **🌐 Website:[www.golondonhiking.co.uk](https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk)** 🎟️ Eventbrite Page:[ GO London Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/organizations/events) **📸 Instagram: [@golondonhiking](https://www.instagram.com/golondonhiking/)** **👍 Facebook Page: [Go London Adventure](https://www.facebook.com/GoLondonAdventure/)** **👥 Facebook Group: [Go London Hiking](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoLondonHiking/)** ### **📜 Terms & Conditions** **By signing up, you agree to our full [Terms & Conditions](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XSic4Aj9VJguTQuiWrTd6I1A-EmvmQCqCHggB0omlX8/edit?usp=sharing) including our cancellation and [refund policy](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W6Qs7etfaqZBHlZJV5P8LhWJ0ZJkZD51LgpsK2kxFI8/edit?usp=sharing).**

Have you ever wanted to partake in hikes where you get exposed to new areas with luscious forms of nature, some amazing views and possibly some hidden gems? If so, this may be the right event for you. Welcome to the first Hiking event where all of this is possible. This is the opportunity to form friendships, discover a different perspective of London, improve your fitness, embrace nature but also feel great about yourself. With this particular Hike, we’ll be hiking from Woolwich to Falconwood. We’ll be traversing through many forests and woodlands but also make new discoveries too. This is also part of the capital ring which is a 78 mile pathway split into 15 hiking routes. This is section 1. If you want to be part of the journey, feel free to join us. 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: Woolwich foot tunnel South Ending point: Falconwood station Walking length: 11.2km Duration: 4 hours at most Required clothing: Smart casual, comfortable shoes and a jacket in case it gets cold
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. WHAT - Hike WHERE - Woolwich to Falconwood WHEN - 2pm - 7pm MEETING POINT - Woolwich foot tunnel south https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZHxezfhu7h8wGcem6?g_st=ic NEAREST STATION - Woolwich station REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for 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. 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.

Discover London's Secret Gardens! Join us for a 2-hour (approx) stroll through some of The City's hidden gems - tucked away gardens and green spaces that its easy to miss. We'll end up at a pub just a short walk from Monument and Liverpool Street stations. Come for the gardens, stay for the company!

***This event is hosted at a rooftop bar located within a 5-star hotel, offering an elegant setting with stunning views.*** * **FIRST 50 TICKETS ARE FREE** Hi Everyone, Join us for a vibrant rooftop event at a stunning London skybar, featuring breathtaking city views and a relaxed social atmosphere. This unique gathering combines creativity, fun, and networking in an unforgettable open-air setting. **Dress Code: Smart** **This event is for guests aged 18 and over.** [AVIARY ROOFTOP VENUE](https://globalfriendsmeetup.co.uk/events/69e8a652bbb88f78fc8dd5df) **Event Highlights & Advantages:** • Amazing panoramic views of London • Card game to encourage social interaction • **Professional photo sessions** to capture memorable moments • Friendly and welcoming community atmosphere • Perfect space to meet new people and unwind **Ticket Price:** **FIRST 50 TICKETS ARE FREE** TICKET PRICE **£5** :[ ](https://buy.stripe.com/4gMeVf6DzesY9ET8TjfUQ06)**[BOOK YOUR TICKET](https://buy.stripe.com/5kQ4gB5zvdoUeZdglLfUQ07)** **Ticket purchase is required to confirm your attendance.** Come enjoy social, games, great views, and good vibes high above the city!

**It’s that time again! With May now here, we're hugely excited to be hosting our latest Social Pub Quiz, exclusively for 20s and 30s.** Yep that's right, every month we host latest our very special creative and quirky pub quiz in Central London, just for our community ❤️ And as always, our crack team of quizmasters have concocted a range of entertaining and social quiz rounds, each designed to challenge your wit and intelligence with a range of fun and fascinating questions. And we'll also be throwing in some fun team games designed to test your speed, creativity and teamwork - with previous quizzes featuring everything from crafty challenges, poetry duels to Marmalade Sandwich time trials ⏱️ Best of all, we have some amazing prizes up for grabs and so don't miss out on what promises to be a memorable afternoon of quizzing, socialising, and friendly competition. Unfortunately as the pub can only fit a limited number of us in for the quiz and so as always, places will be offered on a first come, first serve basis. **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **WHERE/WHEN** Venue Address: The Star By Liverpool Street, 94 Middlesex St, London E1 7EZ ([https://maps.app.goo.gl/hcx4jN9BnqDry2Ws5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/hcx4jN9BnqDry2Ws5)) Nearest Tube Stations: Liverpool Street (5 mins walk) and Aldgate (10 mins). Start Time - 4:30pm Finish time: 7:30pm - 8:30pm (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)**

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

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 12 miles (20km) • Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 20m • Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours • Cost: £36 (includes guided hike + ferry + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, at the mid-afternoon stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: Victoria station. Meet between WHSmith (no 34) and Nero Express (no 29) - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Victoria.jpg) & [PHOTO](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/VictoriaPhoto.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:30am, leave 8:50am for the 9:05am train • Return: 7:15pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Explore **Chichester Harbour** — a 3,700-hectare estuary and designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, teeming with wildlife • Take a **ferry ride across the historic Chichester Channel**, famously painted by J.M.W. Turner • Stroll through **Chichester Marina**, one of the South Coast’s most vibrant harbours with over 1,000 boats • Visit **Chichester**, an ancient Roman city fortified after AD 43 • Enjoy peaceful coastal scenery, wildflower meadows, and serene waterways 🥾 **Hike Description** Our adventure begins in the historic **Roman city of Chichester**, whose roots stretch back nearly 2,000 years. From here, we set out toward **Chichester Harbour**, the largest natural estuary in South East England and a protected wildlife sanctuary. The harbour’s expansive tidal waters and saltmarshes are alive with birdlife, making it one of the UK’s richest coastal habitats. We follow a scenic trail past the **Bosham Channel**, a picturesque stretch of water that has inspired painters, poets, and writers for centuries. Soon we reach the **Chichester Channel**, once used as a wartime shipping passage and immortalised in a painting by **J.M.W. Turner**. Here we cross by the traditional ferry, a unique highlight of the day and a chance to admire the waterway up close. Arriving in the old village of **West Itchenor**, our route continues to the bustling **Chichester Marina**, home to more than 1,000 boats and one of the South Coast’s most vibrant harbours. From here, our path meanders past ancient villages, coastal meadows, and historic sites before concluding with a refreshing visit to a local pub — the perfect way to end this coastal journey. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [BEA](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07345 241215 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

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.

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Kittie's Worthington](https://kittiescakes.com/)!

Columbus Super Foodies **we love food, drinks, and hangout time, right**? 🍔🔥🍻 Let’s join Central Ohio Friends and Columbus Social Connection for their first **BYOB** **Cookout** & **Bonfire** **Party of 2026** this Saturday, May 9th at Shadybowl Speedway. Free camping. Sleep or sober up in your car! Do not drink and drive under the influence! **You can arrive anytime,** but this is definitely a full-day, full-night **experience** if you want to enjoy it all. **2:30 PM — Adult Field Day** Field-day-inspired games like tug of war, dodgeball, and other fun challenges. No athletic experience needed, and there is no pressure to participate. **4:30 PM — Cookout** There will be a communal grill available, plus plug-ins for crockpots, Instant Pots, roasters, etc. Please **bring something to share** and use the **signup link** so everyone can see what’s being brought. **sign up link** https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E49ABA92EA2FAC70-63781787-saturday **Around 7:30–8:00 PM** — Stock Car Racing We’ll head into the track to watch some wild, action-packed racing. If you’ve never been to a race, or think racing isn’t your thing — come for the beer, stay for the wrecks. 🤣 **Shadybowl is BYOB.** No glass. Cash only. **Race admission is $15 cash only.** After the races, **around 11:30 PM,** we’ll kick off the bonfire party with **music**, **cornhole**, and stargazing. You can even **sing karaoke** if you want. Bring: * **A chair** * **BYOB**, no glass * Cash for race admission * S**omething to share** for the cookout please **use sign up link** https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E49ABA92EA2FAC70-63781787-saturday **I would bring pants, hoody or jacket, and a case or gallon of water for yourself** If you find value in these events, please consider making a contribution using the contribution link in the comments. Stop scrolling. Start doing stuff. 🔥

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!