Social and Cultural Outings

New in town? Bored of swiping? Or just fancy meeting genuinely fun people this summer? **Social Saturday Sessions** is a **FREE** indoor & outdoor social designed to help people meet new mates, have a few drinks, play some games and enjoy a low-pressure night with genuinely good vibes. **Come solo. Leave social.** **What's the Plan?? 👀** * **Start time: 7PM 🍹** Head to the front-of-house desk and say you're here for the Meet Up! Try to arrive before 7:30 so we can make sure everyone finds each other :) * **Early evening – Games & icebreakers 🎮** Fun, low-key ways to get chatting (zero cringe, promise). * **Mid-evening – Mingle mode 💬** More chats, more drinks, more “how did we all end up here?” moments. * **Later on – Anything goes 🔥** Karaoke? Dancing? Bit of both? We’ll see where the night takes us. * **All night – Good people, good energy ✨** No pressure, no expectations—just show up and see what happens. Need help finding us? Our entrance can be found at what3words: https://w3w.co/putty.camera.roof **JOIN OUR WHATSAPP COMMUNITY HERE:** https://chat.whatsapp.com/CpmuQWTBGJ12dVNCfXdJdQ?mode=gi_t **Come solo. Leave social.** Just head to the main entrance (the food hall side), and you’ll find our friendly hosts waiting for you behind the front desk!

An elevated evening above the city. [AVIARY SKYBAR : HOW TO GET IN](https://www.instagram.com/p/DYO8UV0MGjF/?next=%2F) **Should the weather shift, the evening will continue seamlessly inside the skybar lounge** Join a carefully curated rooftop gathering hosted inside one of London’s luxury 5-star hotels, where skyline views, ambient music, and unexpected conversations set the tone for the night. What to expect: • Panoramic views stretching across London after dark • An international crowd of creatives, professionals, travelers, and curious minds • A relaxed yet refined atmosphere designed for genuine connections • Cocktails, conversations, and a rooftop experience hidden above the city. . **Dress Code: Smart** **18+ Only**

A most glorious and stunning 11.5 mile gently undulating walk that takes in wonderful Pangbourne, Coombe Park and the Goring Gap - one of the most beautiful and dramatic stretches of the River Thames ! Please arrive by 9.05am so as to facilitate the purchase of group return train tickets for the 9.38am train that arrives at Pangbourne at 10.33am. Train ticket : Pangbourne return Or you may decide to drive. Meetup fee £8 payable in cash or £6 by Saturday in advance by bank transfer, details available upon request. No PayPal. Please use the toilets on the trains as much as possible as there shall be no toilet stop at Pangbourne train station. Please bring packed lunch, water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and walking shoes/ boots or trainers. We shall have a lunch break in delightful village of Goring and then have a drink in wonderful Wallingford. We shall aim to take the bus at 4.52pm from Wallingford to Reading followed by the subsequent train to London. Some of us shall be staying over in Wallingford for the Oxford to Abingdon walk on Sunday. You should be able to walk 2.5 miles per hour and have adequate and appropriate insurance for this type of activity. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no 07714250849.

🚨 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. Winning challenges earns points for your team on the live scoreboard. No skills needed. Just jump in, have a laugh and work together. Winning team get free shots 🍹 **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.*

SCENIC WALK IN STUNNING GREEN FOREST with LAKES. STRENGTHEN NEW FRIENDSHIPS IN A PUB SOCIAL AFTER THE WALK. Today we walk through the splendid scenery of Trent Park. **WALK START:Cockfosters Underground Station** (Piccadilly Line - Travel Zone 5) WALK ROUTE: From Cockfosters Underground Station we walk through Trent Park and then across to Stray Hill, Hilly Fields and down into Enfield Chase. WALK DISTANCE: Approx 6.5 miles. WALK FINISH: At a large pub 10 minute walk from Enfield Chase Station ( National Rail.) STOPOUT POINT: Not many convenient places. **Scroll down to see Disclaimer and Notice of Risks.** ENJOY UNIQUE HEALTHY WALKS IN STUNNING GREEN SPACES OR ALONG WATERWAYS IN LONDON. **COST of EVENT**: **All of the walks on this group are only £5 each to attend. Payment is not collected before the day of the event to allow you maximum flexibility.** **This walk is free for holders of the Ken's Events Membership Card.** Get out, explore and enjoy London's abundant green spaces and surprising surrounding countryside. Give up the city streets for a day and breathe some fresh air. Improve your overall fitness levels and make some new friends at the same time. Social Event: Our walks are social walks, where the emphasis is on meeting new people, enjoying nature, healthy exercise, and fresh air. Our walks are not interrupted with running commentaries or historical lectures, although occasionally features of significance may be pointed out. As such our walks will be continuous with few stops and it is your responsibilty to keep walkers ahead in view and to follow the direction of the walk. We always end the walk at a pub where the socialising can continue. Take this opportunity to visit green parts of London, unknown to most people, and that you would not otherwise have an opportunity to see. RISKS:Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and carry a bottle of water and necessary medication. You need to be moderately fit for this walk and be able to walk for four miles without a break. In these walks we use; pavements, cross busy roads, public parkland, towpaths alongside water, other public paths, and tracks through woodland and countryside. Please only wear good sturdy shoes, trousers are recommended, and take care as surfaces may be uneven, and some paths are also used by joggers and cyclists. Be wary of portruding tree roots and low overhanging branches. If you require insurance for these walks then you must arrange this yourself. No large dogs or small children please. Please arrive in good time to allow opportunity to use toilets at the start of the walk as there may not be any toilet breaks available during the walk. WANT TO COME ON ANOTHER WALK? For a list of future walks go to[ http://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/) DISCAIMER All Ken's Events are subject to a disclaimer. Please click here [https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/](https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/) to find out more about Kens Events/Walks and click on 'read more' to see full disclaimer. Please post no pre-event messages unless you are posting something relevant for the whole group. Kens Events also has a facebook page. [http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) When you arrive at the station look for Ken with Kens Events/Meetup Badge outside the station. WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD? - Light rain is not a problem, only very heavy rain will lead to a postponement.

Hello Richmond Socialites This will be a fantastic evening in an absolutely gorgeous location outdoors and next to the pond in Barnes. **PLEASE buy a ticket BEFORE you RSVP** ***TICKETS WILL SELL OUT FAST!*** David Live is a refined and honest tribute to the man once described by *Rolling Stone* as “The Greatest Rock Star Ever”: David Bowie! David Live has been performing for over 15 years and is considered the favourite amongst true aficionados. Between the hit singles, the band squeezes in rare deep cuts for the Bowie faithful. If the weather's hot and sunny we will meet earlier and have a picnic together as there's an electric DJ set at 6.30pm **PLEASE buy a ticket BEFORE you RSVP** https://osoarts.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173671961?utm_source=OSO+Arts+Centre+Friends&utm_campaign=af73f06d99-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2023_10_09_10_07_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-0006db46a7-176570228&mc_cid=af73f06d99&mc_eid=62982f6c36 Transport Barnes and Barnes Bridge overland stations, or there are buses from Richmond/Putney/Hammersmith. ***MeetUp 'No Show' Policy:*** *You'll be marked as a 'no show' if you RSVP then don't turn up.* Meeting details nearer the time. Sarah

**Grade: 🥾🥾 🥾Level 3/5** —— **📖SUMMARY:** 🥾23\.5km \(16mi\) \| Ascent 394m \| Descent 429m \| Max Elevation 115m **🚊Train:** **1- Outbound:** *Single Ticket* **London Liverpool Street ➡️ Chingford** **2- Inbound:** *Single Ticket* **Cheshunt ➡️ London** 😁This is a *Friendly Oyster or contactless (bank card) trip*. No advance tickets are needed. ⛳️ **Meeting Point:** **2 Options** **1-** London Liverpool Street train station \- Information desk \(Opposite Platform 10\) \| **10:10** (Train is at **10:31**) **2-** Chingford \- Outside train station \| **10:55** ⚠️This is a **Point to Point (not Circular)** Hike **📍Hike** **start:** **Chingford** train station \| **11:05** **🔚Hike** **finish:** **Cheshunt** train station \| approx\. **\~18:00** —— 🚊**TRAIN TICKET INFORMATION:** I would recommend you get: 🎟️This is a **Friendly Oyster or contactless (bank card) trip**, both for the outward and return journeys. There’s no need to buy tickets in advance, as fares are paid directly by tapping in and out at the stations. * **➡️Outbound:** London Liverpool Street **10:31 → 10:57** Chingford * **⬅️Inbound:** Cheshunt **→** London —— **📕ABOUT:** \- A proper London\-edge adventure that strings together two of the capital’s most underrated wild spaces in a single walk — ancient Epping Forest and the lakes and waterways of the Lee Valley\. \- We start at Chingford\, where Queen Victoria opened the Forest to the people in 1882\, then head straight in past Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge and pretty Connaught Water\. \- From there it’s miles of rolling\, knobbly oak and beech woodland — some trees as old as the Anglo\-Saxons — climbing gently to the High Beach ridge at 115m\, the day’s high point\. \- A long\, lovely descent through Sewardstone drops us out of the trees and into the Lee Valley: marshes\, lakes\, reedbeds\, and the calm of the Lee Navigation towpath all the way into Cheshunt\. —— **⭐️HIGHLIGHTS:** * **Chingford & Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge:** 1543 Tudor grandstand on the edge of the Forest. * **Connaught Water:** peaceful early-morning lake, popular with herons and swans. * **Epping Forest ancient woodland:** 5,900 acres of veteran oaks, beeches and hornbeams; some trees as old as the Anglo-Saxons. * **High Beach ridge:** the day’s high point, classic Forest views. * **Sewardstone:** the Forest’s quiet western edge, opening into farmland. * **River Lee Country Park:** lakes, wetlands and excellent birdwatching. * **Lee Navigation towpath:** tranquil canal walking right into Cheshunt. —— **💷COST: Free** This hike is completely free to join but participants need to purchase their own transport tickets. —— 🎒**WHAT TO BRING:** * 2L Water * Packed lunch and snacks * Comfortable walking/hiking shoes * Weather-appropriate clothing (layers, waterproofs, hat, sunscreen) * Optional: trekking poles, camera —— *✅***WHO CAN JOIN:** * Our hikes are open to adults aged 21 and over. * For safety reasons, we’re not able to include children. * We love animals, but pets (including dogs) can’t join our hikes. —— **🚨RSVP & ATTENDANCE:** RSVP only if you plan to attend. Please cancel as early as possible if you can no longer make it so others can join. A no-show means you RSVPed but did not attend or cancelled just before or after the start time. Repeated no-shows or late cancellations without a valid reason may lead to removal. Reliable regulars who end up on a waitlist may message the host for priority consideration. —— **☯️STAYING TOGETHER:** A dedicated back marker is not always present, so please keep others in sight and avoid moving too far ahead or falling too far behind. Faster walkers should wait at junctions. The hike leader will pause at key points to regroup and reduce the chance of anyone becoming separated from the group. —— ⚠️ **DISCLAIMER:** By joining, you confirm that you have read and accepted the group policy on the About page. You are responsible for your own safety, and neither the host nor the group can be held liable for injury, loss, or damage.

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 another 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 Streatham Common to Wimbledon park. We’ll be traversing through many parks, forests and nature pathways 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 5. 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: Streatham Common station Ending point: Wimbledon Park station Walking length: 9.6km Duration: 3 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 - Streatham common to Wimbledon Park WHEN - 2pm - 5:30pm MEETING POINT - Outside Streatham Common Station NEAREST STATION - Streatham Common 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.

Explore historic Wimbledon Village & beyond! Join us for a 2.5-3 hour (approx) stroll through charming Wimbledon village (not the bit around the tube), also seeing a beautiful park, some of Wimbledon Common (including an unexpected windmill!), an ornate Buddhist temple & more! Our walk ends at a local pub near Wimbledon tube, perfect for a well-deserved break:)

**Brews and Lose... Track of Time!** Bermondsey Beer Mile. Relaxed pace. Visit craft brewery tap rooms in ancient industrial London. It really is a lovely walk, lots of Victorian buildings, murals, art, etc. As with all our events, you **do not** need an ADHD diagnosis. Come as you are, meet nice, quirky people. We will attempt to visit several of the taprooms in a loosely sequential order. I strongly recommend having thirds or halves of a pint! Some of us will succeed. To keep you in sustenance, there will be assorted food places along the route. We start at [The Kernal Taproom,](https://share.google/c3sPrvF5jXxSsbwGJ) and finish up around London Bridge where... who knows what may happen next, **What will definitely happen:** - At least one person will show up to the wrong place - Someone will spend forty minutes reading the entire tap list and order a basic bitch Fosters/Carling - A conversation will begin, go completely off-piste, and never return to the original point - Someone will announce they're leaving and still be there an hour later - We will collectively lose track of time, money, and the thread of at least six conversations **What will probably not happen:** - Not everyone arriving on time - Leaving when we said we would - Remembering what the plan was - But we will try. **Directions:** Meet at [The Kernal taproom ](https://share.google/c3sPrvF5jXxSsbwGJ) preferably at 12, before the rush. Nearest Tube: Bermondsey - Jubilee Line Our WhatsApp group: [Message us here](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EQgW6gtwMhh2kPgP7CyrBK) READ THE GUIDE!! [Bermondsey Beer Mile Survival Guide](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YgpzHyIdA2mhpKDV_9yjFjIiWmFf1tyN/edit?usp=drivesdk&ouid=107544702518017466322&rtpof=true&sd=true) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Important note:** This is not a dating meetup, not everyone will want to connect outside of an event. This is a proudly consent-led space.

**It's landed. Another Sunday and we’ve got your weekend sorted again with a special summer Social Walk and Pub trip - exclusively for 20s and 30s.** For our latest Sunday walk, we’ll be visiting hiking from Vauxhall to Battersea Park, in south-west London 🌳 Before heading off on the hike, as always - you'll be allocated a group for a mix of light-hearted games to help you break the ice and get to know your fellow walkers a little better before we set off. After the games and once everyone is warmed up for the walk, we’ll set off on our 2–3 hour stroll from Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens. From there, we’ll take a scenic route along the River Thames, enjoying views of the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the London Eye, before continuing downriver past Battersea Power Station. We’ll then cross into Battersea Park to explore its beautiful lakes and subtropical gardens, and wander past the famous Peace Pagoda 🧘 As always, we will then finish up at a nearby pub where you can grab a drink, rest your legs and get to know your fellow hikers a bit better. It should be another great summer afternoon stroll - although, as always, we will be having to cap numbers for this event so do make sure you nab your place as soon as you can! **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **WHERE/WHEN WE WILL MEET** Meet Point - Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, London, SE11 5HL (Exact Location: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/dyNNQ3aoBZKdsFuMA](https://maps.app.goo.gl/dyNNQ3aoBZKdsFuMA)) Closest stations: Vauxhall (5 min walk), Pimlico (15 min walk) Destination: The Magic Garden, Battersea Meet Time - 2:00pm Finish time: 5:00pm (approx) Pub Finish time: 6:30pm-7:30pm (Approx) **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **JOIN THE COMMUNITY** Set up in November 2021, the project was set up to help young adults 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)**

Hi all, cost & info below, please join everyone for a wonderful, amazing mostly Riverside 6 mile linear walk through Richmond, Isleworth, Syon Park and House (Stopping for a cafe break during the walk), Brentford, Kew Bridge and ending in Strand On The Green. A lovely, stunning, beautiful walk while finding out some brief and local history along the way, highlights include where Henry VIII's body exploded lying in state and where his wife Catherine Howard was imprisoned, where Lady Jane Grey was proclaimed Queen, the remains of Richmond Palace where Elizabeth I died, where Charles I and II drank, Oliver Cromwell kept his troops and where a battle took place, where Vincent Van Gogh and J.M.W Turner lived, a shipbuilders yard still in place from nearly 200 years ago, where the Beatles filmed, beautiful streches on the River and a Riverside Pub at the End! The Walk starts outside the front of Richmond Station by the bus stops. (District Line, National Rail and Overground) and ends at Gunnersbury Station (District Line and Overground) Please note the walk starts at 12.30pm not the usual time because with the River Thames being tidal, Strand on the Green becomes flooded and we cannot walk along the path, so the earlier time is to accommodate this reason. I will not be able to take the people who wish to go to Gunnersbury Underground Station straight after the walk, as I will have to arrange the seating area in the Bulls Head pub for the after social. There will be a few people after the walk who will make their own way to the station and follow the route via Google Maps. £10 cash/card payment by simply turning up on the day ABOUT OUR SECRET LONDON WALKS It is a 15-year fascinating journey together to explore the whole of beautiful, enchanting Secret London. The only walking group in the World offering this unique experience! The individual walks have been created from an original route several miles in length (usually on average about 40 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!

A most glorious 9.5 miles walk - one of the most beautiful and scenic stretches of the River Thames ! Please arrive by 9.05am so as to facilitate the purchase of group return train tickets to Oxford for the 9.50am direct train that arrives at Oxford at 10.43am. Train ticket : Oxford return. Please note that I shall not be at Paddington as staying overnight in Wallingford after the walk on Saturday. Or you may decide to drive. Walk will commence at 11am. Meetup fee £8 payable in cash or £6 in advance by Saturday by bank transfer, details available upon request. Please bring packed lunch, water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and walking shoes/ boots or trainers. We shall have a drink at the end of the walk in Abingdon before aiming to take a bus between 4pm and 4.30pm that arrives back in Oxford by around 5pm followed by direct train back at 5.32pm. You should be able to walk 2.5 miles per hour and have adequate and appropriate insurance for this type of activity. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no 07714250849.

**History** [Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/chestnut-ridge/) is historically significant because it sits on a 300-million-year-old outcropping of Blackhand sandstone. Geographically recognized as the very first foothill of the Appalachian Mountains, the ridge rises 1,116 feet above sea level. Long before European settlement, the land served as a sacred site for ancient civilizations. The park contains the Old Maid's Orchard Mound, an eight-foot-tall burial mound constructed by the Adena culture between 1000 B.C. and 100 B.C. This ancient landmark has remained largely intact and is now protected on the National Register of Historic Places. The documented modern history of the land began with an official survey conducted by Ebenezer Buckingham in 1801. Original land deeds of sale from this period notably bear the signatures of United States Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. In the 1830s, Irish laborers arrived at the ridge to quarry its rich Blackhand sandstone. The blocks they hewed were used to build the crucial locks for the nearby Ohio and Erie Canal. Remnants of this early sandstone quarrying operation can still be spotted by sharp-eyed hikers along the modern trails. Agricultural transformation defined the ridge throughout the mid-to-late 19th century. Settlers discovered that the high elevation created a natural air flow that prevented late-season frost damage to crops. Extensive fruit orchards were planted across the slopes between 1860 and 1880. One notable orchard was established by John Wagner, a Spanish-American War veteran who chose the ridge specifically for its proximity to the bustling Columbus market. The park's current name pays homage to the massive American chestnut trees that once dominated the ridgeline before a devastating ecological blight wiped them out in the early 20th century. The conservation story of the modern 486-acre park began in March 1962. The Metro Parks board announced land acquisition plans to block developers from building a residential housing development called Chestnut Heights. Director-Secretary Walter A. Tucker advocated heavily for the purchase, citing the ridge's immense value as a scenic overlook for central Ohio. The district systematically purchased multiple agricultural parcels over the next two decades. After operating strictly as undeveloped farmland through the 1970s, Chestnut Ridge Metro Park officially opened to the public on December 18, 1988. In recent decades, the park has evolved from a quiet hiking spot into a premier regional destination for outdoor sports. A major turning point occurred in 2010 when the Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization (COMBO) partnered with the park district to develop new infrastructure. Volunteers worked extensively to construct a single-track mountain bike trail, which officially opened in October 2011. An expert gravity and flow trail featuring advanced jumps was later integrated into the loop in 2016. Today, the park successfully balances its deep ancient, industrial, and agricultural history with active recreation. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Chestnut Ridge](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/CHR_map_1980px_2026.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Ridge, Meadows, and Homesite Trails, and Law's Lane, which is unmarked on some maps. None of these trails is individually very long, so we will hike a few permutations and loops until we get in 4-5 miles. The hike will be moderately strenuous. **Where We'll Meet** Drive to the rearmost picnic area at the back of the park. There's a latrine here, but there's no water fountain here or anywhere else at Chestnut Ridge. I strongly recommend you bring some water of your own, at least for after the hike. Cell service at the park is spotty, although your GPS will get you there just fine. The map pin I've provided here is exactly where we'll be meeting and should be able to be used directly in Google Maps, although Chestnut Ridge isn't big and you're unlikely to get lost here. **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [BrewDog DogTap](https://drink.brewdog.com/usa/brewdog-dogtap-columbus) for [drinks](https://usa.brewdog.com/pages/brewdog-lineup) and [food](https://usa.brewdog.com/cdn/shop/files/DogTap_Menu_2025_65e1ff8b-97d4-4f26-80f1-68321d482025.pdf?v=17356939232910340498). They also have an outdoor area that's extremely popular. I've had their burgers and their pizza, and I think they're both very good. I also really like their [Cold Beer](https://usa.brewdog.com/products/cold-beer-2024) (that's its actual name), which is their American light lager. BrewDog's actual address is [96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/96+Gender+Rd,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88387c06afa21a85:0x804c611d373d8c54?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and they have a large, free parking lot. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

**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.

Dodgeball is back again! If you’ve been wanting to come out, this is an easy one to join. We’ll be playing for about 1.5 to 2 hours, you do not need to bring any equipment, and no experience is needed. We use a specific set of rules and equipment to make the games run better and keep them fun for everybody, not just people who already know how to play. If it rains, the event will be canceled.

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!

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 [Crimson Cup Coffee Shop - Clintonville](https://www.crimsoncup.com/about/location/clintonville)!