Sailing

They say that pictures speak a thousand words, and so here are pics from this previous day trip on our website (click on the event) : [www.aaahiking.co.uk/day-hikes](http://www.aaahiking.co.uk/day-hikes) The video at the top was also a previous sunset Seven Sisters hike too. **DESCRIPTION** Sunset hike particularly for you late risers, and sea swimmers :) Bring your pillow for the train home! Please bring flip flops or sandals in yoir bag in case of river crossing Join us for this classic walk in the **South Downs National Park for the Sunset!!!**. This is one of the most magnificent and justifiably well-known **13-mile walk** along the **South Downs way**. This is the classic version of the Seven Sisters starting from Eastbourne ending in Seaford. **WHAT TO EXPECT - HIKING INFO** Distance: **20km** Ascent: c.**550 metres** Estimated Duration (approx): \*\* 6 hours walking\*\* Difficulty: **[Energetic](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/hike-grade)** Meeting Point: Meeting Point: **[London Victoria Station](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/meeting-places/)** (see pic in in link) in front of the ticket machines where the Benches are. Assembly time: 09:00 Move to departure platform: 09:15 Train leaves: 09:24 Train arrives at Eastbourne: 10:51 Sunset: 17:52 (Seaford side near start of Seven sisters) -We'll aim for the 18:53 train back to London to arrive at Victoria 20:36 **Cliffs** **The Seven Sisters Cliffs are surprisingly fragile and at constant risk of collapse. Please refrain from getting close to the edge (ideally 3 metres)** **Pricing Info:** * £30 per person – includes hike + train travel. Book by 11:59 PM on Tuesday before the event to guarantee your spot at this £30 discounted price - after this time there might or might not be limited £30 tickets left upon checking event. * Want to join for the hike only? Message me privately on Meetup to pay £10 anytime. **HIKE INCLUDES** * Guided Hike planned and led by experienced AAA leaders, trained Summer Mountain Leader with Wilderness First Aid Training. * PayPal fees **PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** * Travel costs (unless you selected that payment option) * Lunch, drinks or any refreshments * Souvenirs * Meetup Fee levied on all purchases via meetup * Entrance fees to any attractions you wish to visit **RECOMMENDED KIT LIST [(](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)[full list](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/kit-lists)[)](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)** * Suitable hiking shoes or boots * Waterproof jacket and trousers (Please no jeans!) * Water [2L recommended] * Warm/Windproof layer, e.g. Down/Primaloft/Fleece * Wicking base layer, e.g. Polyester/Tencil/Merino * Camera & Phone * Picnic lunch and snacks **CANCELLING/REFUNDS** If you can no longer join the event, please message the host and update your RSVP status on MeetUp to 'Not going', to allow others to take your place. If the event sells out, and you have messaged us and have changed your RSVP to 'Not going', please email us on [info@aaalondongroup.com](info@aaalondongroup.com) after the event date, requesting a refund, including your PayPal email address, so we can locate the payment. Unfortunately, as PayPal retains the original transaction fee, we cannot refund this. If the hike is not full, we are sorry, we are unable to issue a refund. **QUESTIONS** If you have any other questions, please check visit our[ FAQ page](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/faq). If you are still unsure, contact the event Host shown on this page. We have operated over 1,000 events without significant incidents in the last ten years, achieved through meticulous planning. All participants (members and their guests) in any AAA Hiking event or activity are personally responsible for their fitness, safety and welfare, and must be equipped accordingly. If you have signed up for the event, you acknowledge and accept the AAA Hiking Terms and Conditions. [FAQs](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/faq) \| [Terms and Conditions](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/terms-and-conditions) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/AAAhiking) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews) \| [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaahiking/) \| [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@aaahiking) \| [Trip Advicer](https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186338-d19994843-Reviews-AAA_Hiking_Outdoor_Group-London_England.html) \| [TicTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@aaahiking) \| [Website](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/) © AAA London Group Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted

**Celebrate Saturday night in style at Solaya London — the brand-new 24th-floor sky bar at the chic art’otel Hoxton, just minutes from Old Street Station.** With *incredible panoramic views across London*, sleek interiors and an elevated, city atmosphere. **Tickets Available here:** [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1983262502533?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1983262502533?aff=oddtdtcreator) **The Experience:** Arrive from **8:00 PM** and enjoy a **complimentary welcome drink between 8:00–9:00 PM** as you step into our semi-private spaces reserved exclusively for our guests. The early part of the evening is all about warm introductions in a relaxed, stylish environment, with our hosts on hand to guide conversations and help you settle in. We’re bringing together **100 chic London single professionals**, expect sparkling energy, great conversations and the perfect chance to meet new people before the holidays. As the night unfolds, the mood shifts from mellow mingling to festive celebration. From **10:00 PM**, our **DJ** brings the room to life with uplifting beats and late-night rhythms, inviting you to dance, sip cocktails and soak up those breathtaking skyline views. **Dress Code:** ✨ **Chic and ready for the city lights.** **Event Schedule:** 🕗 **8:00 PM – Arrival & Check-In** 🥂 **8:00–9:00 PM – Complimentary Welcome Drink** 💬 **8:00–10:00 PM – Hosted Introductions & Socialising** 🎶 **10:00 PM – DJ, Dancing & Late-Night Vibes** Join us for a glamorous Saturday at London’s newest sky bar **Tickets Available here:** [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1983262502533?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1983262502533?aff=oddtdtcreator)

Join us for a rewarding circular walk through the beautiful Kent Downs, exploring a mix of rolling countryside, woodland trails, quiet lanes and far-reaching views. This varied route from Knockholt Station showcases the quieter, less-trodden side of Kent, with plenty of ups and downs to keep things interesting. Start/Finish: Knockholt Station Distance: 16.36 km Time: Approx. \~5 hrs 45 including breaks Moving Time: \~4 hrs 45 mins Ascent: 371 m Grade: 2.5 – Moderate–Challenging Meet Time: 9:00 am Start Time: 9:15 am End Time: \~3:00–3:15 pm (Approx) We begin by leaving the village behind and heading out onto quiet lanes and footpaths, quickly dropping into peaceful valleys before climbing back up onto wooded ridges. The route winds through a mix of ancient woodland, farmland, chalk tracks and open countryside, with several steady climbs and descents typical of the North Downs landscape. As we loop south and west of Knockholt, we pass through secluded rural areas and tree-lined paths, with occasional long views across the Kent countryside. The terrain is varied underfoot, making this a satisfying walk for those who enjoy a bit of challenge without anything technical. We finish by looping back into Knockholt via gentle tracks and woodland paths. This walk is ideal for regular walkers looking for a solid day out, or confident improvers ready to step up from gentler routes. Highlights: \- Kent Downs AONB – Classic chalk landscape with rolling hills and valleys \- Woodland Trails – Quiet\, leafy paths and ancient woodland sections \- Varied Terrain – Footpaths\, chalk tracks\, farmland and peaceful lanes \- Elevated Views – Wide countryside views from the downs What to Wear and Bring: \- Our walks go ahead in all weather\, so dress appropriately\. Always carry a waterproof jacket\. \- Check the forecast and bring sun cream\, a hat\, or sunglasses for warm days\, and waterproofs\, a warm hat\, and gloves for cold or wet days\. \- Wear trousers or leggings to reduce the risk of tick bites and nettle stings\. Avoid denim or cotton\. \- Sturdy walking shoes or boots are essential\. Open\-toe shoes are unsuitable\. \- Bring at least 1\.5 litres of water\, lunch\, and snacks\, as there may be no opportunities to buy food or drinks along the route\. \- Public toilets may not be available on the route\. Sign-Up Form: If you haven’t completed a form this year or your circumstances have changed, please fill out the sign up form before attending. Participation is not allowed without a completed form, as this ensures we understand your needs and can maintain group safety. (link can be found in Ts&Cs section of the website - or cut and paste below into your browser) Form link: https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058 Preparation and Fitness: You are responsible for your own health and safety. Ensure you can hike continuously for the duration specified. Dress appropriately, please bring the required gear and carry any personal medications. Participants without proper equipment may be unable to join the walk. Our Guides: Our experienced, qualified leaders are skilled in navigation, first aid, and outdoor leadership. Each route is carefully planned to match the advertised grade, ensuring a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience. Additional Information: Dogs are not permitted on our walks. Adventure Women UK is an all-female activity group, and participants must be over 18. Walk Grades: For details on walk difficulty levels, visit the Walk Grades Section at https://adventurewomen.co.uk. Cancellation & Credit Policy (Day Experiences) All bookings are non-refundable. • Over 4 weeks before the event: You may transfer or receive credit towards another event. • 4–1 weeks before the event: No refund, but a transfer/credit may be offered only if your space is filled. • Less than 1 week before the event: No refund or transfer available. All transfers/credits are discretionary and subject to availability. Important Note: By RSVPing “Yes” to any event, you agree to the group’s terms and conditions. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs. Outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including slips, trips, falls, drowning, exposure to extreme weather, equipment failure, and medical emergencies, which can result in serious injury or death. By participating, you voluntarily assume all such risks. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs. About Us: Adventure Women UK is an outdoor pursuits club that empowers women to explore, grow, and connect through shared adventures. Our supportive community welcomes women from all backgrounds, offering experiences that inspire, uplift, and redefine what it means to be an adventure woman. Questions? Please visit our FAQ page (under the “more” section) OR drop us a message if you have any questions.

I’m leading this hike for **London Social Hiking** and sharing it here so my KoZa Trails crew know when I’m out on the trails in the UK. 😊 👉 **Please note:** all sign-ups and payments need to be done through London Social Hiking’s Meetup page here: https://www.meetup.com/londonsocialhiking/events/313022194/?eventOrigin=your_events RSVPs on KoZa Trails are just to show interest and don’t secure a spot. Shout if you’ve got any questions—it would be lovely to see some familiar faces! ################# Join us for a very special trip as we head to Dorset to discover the dramatic and famous Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage coastline! Stretching 95 miles between Old Harry Rocks and Orcombe Point, the Jurassic Coast – England’s first Natural UNESCO World Heritage Site – is the most geologically diverse coastline in the world. The exposed cliff sections allow us to look back across 185 million years; dinosaur remains have been found here, and it’s a fossil-hunter’s paradise. On this magnificent coastal hike, we'll visit the iconic natural limestone arch of Durdle Door and the famous scallop-shaped Lulworth Cove with its white pebble beach and crystal clear waters. On our way, we'll see many lovely bays and beaches and enjoy excellent views of the Isle of Portland, which was host of the sailing events of the 2012 Olympics. Most of the route follows the cliff-top trail, with stunning panoramic views of sweeping bays, folded cliffs and the sea. There will be a few steep ascents and descents, but all of your efforts will be well rewarded by the jaw-dropping beauty around you! We have kept the distance shorter (5 miles / 8 kilometres) to have the difficulty of this trail on the Easy/Moderate border. We'll walk at a slower pace and take many breaks on the uphill sections, as needed. This trip is therefore suitable for all reasonably fit BEGINNERS – a great way to experience hiking before joining our more difficult hikes! 🤩 DISTANCE & DIFFICULTY Distance: 5 miles (8km). Ascent: 350m. Difficulty: Easy/Moderate. ITINERARY 07:45 Meet outside Hotel Novotel London West, 1 Shortlands, W6 8DR (a five-minute walk from Hammersmith Station) 08:00 Sharp departure 11:15-14:30 Hike along the Jurassic Coast from Ringstead Bay to Durdle Door, Man O'War Beach and the chalk headland of Bat's Head; free time on Durdle Door Beach 14:30-15:00 Walk from Durdle Door to Lulworth Cove 15:00-16:10 Free time to explore Lulworth village; (if there is time) short walks to Stair Hole (small cove with extravagantly-folded strata) and Lulworth Cove viewpoint 16:15 Departure 19:30 London, Hammersmith TRANSPORT As on most of our trips, we'll travel in a comfortable 16-seater minibus. **Explore Britain’s most stunning trails in a small group of up to 15, travelling together by private minibus to beautiful, remote locations not easily reached by public transport.**

It's Herschel's birthday (1792). Not William, who discovered Uranus & various moons around it and Saturn, or Caroline who found a few comets. John, continuing the family work completed mapping of the Southern Hemisphere sky, and named the discovered moons - in Saturn's case, after Titans in Greek mythology. First stop along this Wealden walk will be his home at The Moor, a quintessential English village complete with green where cricket was played in Herschel's day, church, and the Eight Bells. The church houses a very unusual relic, delivered in 1944. Next in our orbit is Bewl Water, the largest stretch of water in SE England, described as unlike anywhere else. [Bewl Water - The Ultimate Destination for a Family Day Out](https://www.bewlwater.co.uk/) Final stop is Ticehurst, with chocolate box cottages. Further details: [Best places to live: Ticehurst, Sussex | Muddy Stilettos | Muddy Stilettos](https://sussex.muddystilettos.co.uk/best-places-to-live/sussex/best-places-to-live-ticehurst/) And when taking photographs along the walk - who coined the word 'photography' which he helped develop? Yep, John Herschel. Outward Travel: Take the train departing 9.24 AM from London Bridge to ETCHINGHAM. The return train fare with a Network Card or GroupSave is £17.00. Gather outside the ticket office at London Bridge to arrange group tickets. Walk start: 10.31 AM from Etchingham rail station. Bring a packed lunch. Village / pub stops. Orbital walk. *How to join?* * The walk is entirely free of charge; * You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses; * Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part); * Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself. See our quick safety tips: http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/ *What to bring* * Plenty of water, 1-2 litres recommended * Enough snacks and packed lunch to keep you energized along the walk * Extra snacks and an extra packed lunch just in case * Rainproof (ideally waterproof) clothing, sturdy shoes/boots you don't mind getting muddy * Spare socks * Walking poles and/or an umbrella :-) * Yourself... * ...and your camera! * Cash for train ticket * Cash for pub at the end of the walk? Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section! IMPORTANT Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organized by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes. Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is no business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader". Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen. Despite this, we take extreme precautions and all trips we plan are very safe, fun, highly educational and popular. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone :-) By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer. Here are our tips on staying safe during outdoor trips: http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/ TRAVEL, ACCOMMODATION, INSURANCE Although we provide detailed suggestions, each participant is expected to arrange their own travel - this gives everyone the freedom and choice. Anyone interested in travel or outdoor insurance should also arrange this on their own. As mentioned above we always take extreme precautions, but some people may still feel safer if covered. As most of our trips are confirmed or postponed very close to the event date - heavily depending on the weather forecasts - we advise not to buy this until the last minute. People getting tickets from the same station are encouraged to meet early on the day to benefit from discounts such as GroupSave.

Join us for a relaxed walking trail of just over an hour through the beautiful surroundings of Greenwich Park 🌿 The route is easy-going and mostly flat, making it suitable for all fitness levels 💪🏻 📍 We’ll begin at the south entrance of the Greenwich Foot Tunnel, by Cutty Sark. There are plenty of amenities nearby, including washrooms, cafés, and parking facilities, ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone 💡 To kick things off, we’ll share a few interesting facts and bits of history about the area — and everyone is welcome to add their own insights along the way. 📸 From there, we’ll follow the scenic Greenwich circular path, taking in breathtaking views as we stroll and chat our way through the park. This experience is as much about good conversation and enjoying the surroundings as it is about the walk itself. 🍔 To round off the walk, we’ll head to Greenwich Market for a relaxed meal. The market offers a fantastic variety of food options to suit all tastes. Joining for food is completely optional, but it’s a great way to continue the conversation and end the afternoon together. 💷 COST Free to attend, just RSVP so I know numbers ⏳ DURATION Approx 2hrs at an easy relaxed pace

Ultimate Frisbee Pickup! All experience welcome! Main details: • For first-timers: you're very welcome, no experience necessary, we can teach you the rules and how to play. You just need a willingness to run around a LOT! Bring trainers (or cleats/football boots) and clothes you can run in and plenty of water • Please try to bring both a light top and a dark top as this makes splitting into balanced teams easier • Throwing from 2:00pm ish, we'll kick off a friendly pick-up game around 2:15. It's fine if you can only make it later on - we play with substitutes so you can join in at any point. If no one is there when you arrive, don't worry, people are probably just late! If the meetup is not cancelled, frisbee will be happening! • Afterwards we always head to a pub garden and have a drink or two :) • Frisbee is a non-contact sport, but the occasional bumps can happen, we're all playing at our own risk

**About Session** **Advanced** **4 courts for 4 hours** **High grade tournament shuttles (speed 77-78)** **£14 (bank transfer)** Please sign up to **ONLY ONE** of the concurrent Sunday sessions (this is the 4-hour Sunday session). Non-members should message the organizers their full-name via WhatsApp (Adrian Rabe, +447410463483) to arrange tryouts. Guests allowed but members will be prioritized over guests. Please message Committee members if you would like to add on a guest. Break the strings on 2 racquets, or break a racquet during the session and your session is *free*. Take a photo of the broken strings or racquet **DURING** the session, upload, and tag Broken Strings on Instagram to get the fee waiver. Cancellations < 24 hours before the event will be penalized the full fee. Please message organizer via WhatsApp for late cancellations or for potential slots. We will be discreetly speaking to players who may be struggling with the level of the session. **Free parking available within the school**. Note that the School will be opening and closing the gate **10 minutes before** and **10 minutes after** the beginning and end of the session. If you are locked out, please contact the organizers or other members to help let you in. Photographs and video recordings may be made during the session. Signing up to the session would **include consent for these recordings to be made and used by the club on its social media and other platforms**. **DO NOT PLAY** if you have fever, cough, colds, or other symptoms

**About Session** **Advanced** **4 courts for 2 hours** **High grade tournament shuttles (speed 77-78)** **£12 (bank transfer)** Please sign up to **ONLY ONE** of the concurrent Sunday sessions (this is the 2-hour Sunday session). Non-members should message the organizers their full-name via WhatsApp (Adrian Rabe, +447410463483) to arrange tryouts. Guests allowed but members will be prioritized over guests. Please message Committee members if you would like to add on a guest. Break the strings on 2 racquets, or break a racquet during the session and your session is *free*. Take a photo of the broken strings or racquet **DURING** the session, upload, and tag Broken Strings on Instagram to get the fee waiver. Cancellations < 24 hours before the event will be penalized the full fee. Please message organizer via WhatsApp for late cancellations or for potential slots. We will be discreetly speaking to players who may be struggling with the level of the session. **Free parking available within the school**. Note that the School will be opening and closing the gate **10 minutes before** and **10 minutes after** the beginning and end of the session. If you are locked out, please contact the organizers or other members to help let you in. Photographs and video recordings may be made during the session. Signing up to the session would **include consent for these recordings to be made and used by the club on its social media and other platforms**. **DO NOT PLAY** if you have fever, cough, colds, or other symptoms

**BOOK HERE**: https://sportas.co.uk/games/45744 **Game Description:** Come and play in a casual 6 aside game on a Sunday afternoon ⚽️ It’s a beautiful pitch with larger goals 😍 💦 Showers, changing rooms, water fountain and toilets available. Directions: 🚶‍♂️1 minute walk from Poplar DLR station 🚗 No designated car parking Rules \- Change keeper every 6 minutes \- Classic 6 aside rules \- No slide tackles\, play safe \- Respect everyone on the pitch

**BOOK HERE**: https://sportas.co.uk/games/45219 **Game Description:** 🎮 Warm up and game only setting. 🌟 Positive environment. \*Privacy policy for games only sessions\* By attending this game session, you agree to the following: \* Video recordings/photos are allowed only during free game\* sessions \* Attending means consenting to potentially being recorded by other participants \* Any videos must only be shared via private links \* Distribution limited to session participants only \* Explicit consent required for any public sharing \* Respect others' privacy and comfort \*Please contact the co-organisers if you have any questions about the policy. **Rules** \- point to 15 \- max 2 games in a row \- 3 team of 6 players \- modified games situation might be applied depending on situation \(5:1\, modified 5:1 or 6:2 etc\.\)

**About Session** **Advanced** **4 courts for 2 hours** **High grade tournament shuttles (speed 77-78)** **£12 (bank transfer)** Please sign up to **ONLY ONE** of the concurrent Sunday sessions (this is the 2-hour Sunday session). Non-members should message the organizers their full-name via WhatsApp (Adrian Rabe, +447410463483) to arrange tryouts. Guests allowed but members will be prioritized over guests. Please message Committee members if you would like to add on a guest. Break the strings on 2 racquets, or break a racquet during the session and your session is *free*. Take a photo of the broken strings or racquet **DURING** the session, upload, and tag Broken Strings on Instagram to get the fee waiver. Cancellations < 24 hours before the event will be penalized the full fee. Please message organizer via WhatsApp for late cancellations or for potential slots. We will be discreetly speaking to players who may be struggling with the level of the session. **Free parking available within the school**. Note that the School will be opening and closing the gate **10 minutes before** and **10 minutes after** the beginning and end of the session. If you are locked out, please contact the organizers or other members to help let you in. Photographs and video recordings may be made during the session. Signing up to the session would **include consent for these recordings to be made and used by the club on its social media and other platforms**. **DO NOT PLAY** if you have fever, cough, colds, or other symptoms

**History** [Slate Run Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/slate-run/), located south of Canal Winchester in Pickaway County, has roots tracing back to the early planning efforts of the Columbus and Franklin County Metropolitan Park District. In 1963, Metro Parks officials identified the land along Slate Run as having strong potential for a large metropolitan park due to its expansive acreage, diverse habitats, and natural features like the stream that gave the area its name. The largest stream in the vicinity, Slate Run, flows south to northwest through a ridge, providing a logical basis for the park's designation. Between 1964 and 1968, Metro Parks acquired approximately 1,662 acres through multiple parcels, including a key 212-acre farmstead that had been continuously operated since 1805. This acquisition phase positioned Slate Run as a future major addition to the system, following the openings of other parks like Sharon Woods in 1968 and Highbanks in 1973. The park officially opened to the public in 1981, marking it as the sixth Metro Park in the district and, at the time, the largest with its substantial land holdings. From the outset, Metro Parks envisioned incorporating a living historical farm to educate visitors about 19th-century Ohio agriculture. The focal 212-acre parcel, purchased from the White family heirs in 1964, included historic structures that made it ideal for this purpose. The park's development preserved natural areas such as grasslands, wetlands, meadows, and forests while integrating interpretive elements. Upon opening, Slate Run quickly became a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Central to the park's identity is the Slate Run Living Historical Farm, which interprets life on a typical Ohio farm in the 1880s. The gothic revival farmhouse on the site was constructed in 1856 by owner Isaac Fridley and later restored by Metro Parks for historical accuracy. Visitors can explore interiors like the living room, parlor, and kitchen, where interpreters demonstrate period activities. The multi-bay barn, built in 1881 by Samuel Oman (the fourth owner), was meticulously restored with help from Amish carpenters. Heirloom animals such as Percheron horses, pigs, geese, and turkeys inhabit the farm, enhancing the immersive experience. The historical farmstead reflects a long lineage of ownership and agricultural use dating back to the early 19th century. Continuous farming on the land since 1805 made the site authentic for recreating late-19th-century practices, including grain harvesting and animal husbandry. Metro Parks focused on authenticity by restoring original buildings and introducing period-appropriate methods, such as horse-powered threshing machines from the late 1880s. The farm operates with volunteers and staff in period attire to portray daily rural life. This educational component has drawn school groups and families for decades. Today, Slate Run Metro Park spans about 1,705 acres and attracts roughly 250,000 visitors annually for its blend of natural preservation and historical interpretation. The park maintains diverse habitats supporting wildlife like nesting sandhill cranes and reintroduced northern bobwhite quail. Trails and open spaces offer opportunities for hiking and observation amid the preserved landscapes. The Living Historical Farm remains a crown jewel, continuing to teach about Ohio's agricultural heritage. Ongoing programs and restorations ensure the site's relevance for future generations. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Slate Run](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/SLR-parkmap@2x.gif). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Five Oaks, Sugar Maple, Covered Bridge, Shagbark, and Lake Trails. This will be around 4.5 to 5 miles. While Slate Run is moderately strenuous in a few places, it's generally a good place to hike and doesn't seem to wear people out. Some spots on the hike are unshaded, though, so be prepared for the possibility of some sun. I find Slate Run to be very underappreciated for the quality of its hiking. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet at the [Shady Grove Picnic Area](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B045'30.1%22N+82%C2%B050'13.2%22W/@39.758347,-82.83701,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.758347!4d-82.83701?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). You can use the map pin I've provided here; it's accurate. There's a latrine at Shady Grove, but there is no running water (no water fountains). We will pass a water fountain when we get to the Buzzard's Roost Picnic Area, although I can't guarantee this fountain won't be off for the winter. I'd recommend bringing some water just in case, at least for after the hike. I'd also recommend [hiking shoes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D972KN3W) for this park. **After the Hike** Once we're finished at Slate Run, we'll head over to [Loose Rail Brewing](https://looserailbrewing.com/) for [drinks](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-drink-menu) and [food](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-food-menu). The brewery's actual address is [37 W Waterloo St, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/37+W+Waterloo+St,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/@39.8432511,-82.8071032,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88387be3ac496d83:0x23e8ee9d9391dd6b!8m2!3d39.8432511!4d-82.8071032!16s%2Fg%2F11cp8n8x1j?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's about 10-12 minutes from Slate Run. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.