Scuba Diving

You can expect a friendly introduction to the sport, but in all honesty you will dive in at the deep end to learn UWR. Please bring swimwear and an open mind and expectation to have fun. We can lend an UWR hat, snorkle, mask and fins. Although if you have them already it is better to bring your own. Expect to swim, dive to 4m depth, hold your breath longer than you thought you could, be involved in drills and games. It is full contact and you will be wrestling other players to take the ball and pass to your team or score a goal. Please get on touch with questions or intent to attend prior to session so that we can support with kit etc.

Join OutdoorLads popular weekly Thursday Bouldering evening at The Arch in Bermondsey. OutdoorLads London boulderers welcome all members of the LGBTQ+ community You'll be meeting with a supportive group of 5 to 10 plus boulderers who are always happy to introduce complete beginners or solve difficult bouldering problems with enthusiasts. We usually follow up with a pub visit. This event is for members of all levels of experience and all are welcome to come along to any of the sessions. Bouldering is a form of climbing where instead of long high routes, the 'problems', as they are referred to, tend to be shorter and focus on technique, balance, body positioning and sometimes power. Because of this different emphasis, bouldering doesn't have the hassle of climbing with ropes, harnesses and belaying, which makes the activities excellent for newcomers to the sport. If you're a seasoned climber you won't need convincing about the benefits of bouldering, but for those who've never climbed more than a staircase, the benefits are wide ranging: from the physical - improved strength, tone, balance, power and coordination; mental - problem solving, focus, concentration and body awareness; to the emotional - relaxation, a sense of achievement and a feeling that mind and body are working together perfectly ('feeling psyched'). On top of all this, bouldering tends to be a very social sport where you can hang out with mates and each have a go as you feel regardless of what level you climb at.

These fortnightly sessions are dedicated to the discussion and exploration of an idea that I, as the organiser, have planned. No prior reading or knowledge is required. For more information, please visit https://www.think-philosophy.group/about/

**✨ Want to Improve Your French? ✨** 🇫🇷 Join our **French Conversation Class** to boost your confidence, enrich your vocabulary, and improve your fluency — all in a fun and relaxed environment! 🗓 **Every Thursday** ⏰ **4:30 – 6:30 PM** 📍 *For intermediate speakers* Practice real-life conversations, meet other French learners, and take your French to the next level! Every Thursday at 4:30pm - 5min walking from Liverpool Street Station/8min from Moorgate Station Any questions, contact Voni 07310448654

**London's first multi-sensory aerial relaxation experience with live ambient music, gongs, aromatherapy and aerial hammocks. An Oasis of Calm in our Busy Lives.** # Aerial Relaxation Pods - Sound Journey Gong Bath Meditation in Hammocks ### **ABOUT AERIAL RELAXATION PODS™** London's first **multi-sensory aerial relaxation experience with a short guided meditation, live ambient music: gongs, crystal bowls, vocals, other live instruments and nurturing electronica, aromatherapy eye pillows and scents, sky-blue silky aerial hammocks** to soothe your stresses away and lift your spirit! **A very unique, next level sound journey experience!** *"An oasis of calm in our busy lives."* Londoners stressed out by their busy lives can now turn to Aerial Relaxation Pods™ to transform their tension to calm, and restore the body’s natural healing wisdom. ***(please confirm all dates / times / venue via eventbrite. Not all dates are correct on meetup!)*** **PLEASE NOTE:** Please book via eventbrite. There are very limited spaces, and no sales on the door. an RSVP here on meetup is not a ticket! **For more information and bookings:** [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/aerial-relaxation-pods-sound-journey-gong-bath-meditation-in-hammocks-tickets-84883457707?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/aerial-relaxation-pods-sound-journey-gong-bath-meditation-in-hammocks-tickets-84883457707?aff=oddtdtcreator) *“Our pods are here to help Londoners relax. As a former teacher myself, I am fully aware of just how busy and stressed a lot of people are. And most of us just don't find the time to unwind. Our **Aerial Relaxation Pods** are going to help you alleviate stress, providing time & space to allow your body to deeply rest, harmonising your nervous system. You’ll feel rejuvenated and refreshed after one session.” -* Seth Newman, co-founder of Aerial Relaxation Pods**™**.

Join us at SOAS for a free discussion with author Mattin Biglari about his book *Nationalising Oil and Knowledge in Iran* (2025). ***Nationalising Oil and Knowledge in Iran: Labour, Decolonisation and Colonial Modernity, 1933–51* by Mattin Biglari** Iran’s nationalisation of oil in 1951 was a key catalyst for the rise of resource nationalism as an animating force of global decolonisation, expelling the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company (AIOC, now known as BP) after nearly fifty years of domination in southwest Iran. *Nationalising Oil & Knowledge in Iran* turns attention to the origins of nationalisation in the everyday struggles between the oil company and subaltern actors in the city of Abadan, then home to the world’s largest oil refinery and deeply imbricated in networks of colonialism and racial capitalism. Engaging with energy history, postcolonial/subaltern studies, and science & technology studies, the book focuses on the politics of expertise: how nationalisation reproduced the epistemic coloniality of the oil company, which rested on local dispossession, social engineering, as well as racial and gendered segregation. It argues that nationalisation diverged from subaltern contestations of oil expertise in Abadan, which presented a more fundamental challenge to colonial modernity. Reservation details: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/soas-book-discussion-with-mattin-biglari-on-nationalising-oil-in-iran-tickets-1980422394694?aff=ebdssbdestsearch](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/soas-book-discussion-with-mattin-biglari-on-nationalising-oil-in-iran-tickets-1980422394694?aff=ebdssbdestsearch%0A%0A) After the two-hour discussion, we’ll hang around for a chit chat. Are you interested in reading world fiction and non-fiction in English, Spanish and French? Join my other groups: -www.meetup.com/gaia-books -www.meetup.com/gaia-libros -www.meetup.com/gaia-livres -French Art Group (send me a request) -Instagram: @persian_culture_ -Persian Culture Whatsapp group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZk35ZbJZ6W6wwyHyuxoS2](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZk35ZbJZ6W6wwyHyuxoS2)

**Explore the Stunning Mendip Hills and Cheddar Gorge!** 🥾🌳 Join us for a sociable weekend of guided walks through the dramatic landscapes of the Mendip Hills, including the famous Cheddar Gorge. With two nights’ accommodation and all meals included, this is the perfect opportunity to discover limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and panoramic viewpoints, all while enjoying good company and a welcoming group atmosphere. 📍 **Location:** Cheddar, Mendip Hills 🔗 **Find out more and book here:** [www.largeoutdoors.com/cheddar-gorge-the-mendip-hills](http://www.largeoutdoors.com/cheddar-gorge-the-mendip-hills)

Hello all! IT'S BEEN A WHILE! **But the neurodivergent artist meet ups are back!** Come along to meet fellow neurodivergent artists, share your work and chat about your art! I'd love to \*finally\* put on an exhibition next year to showcase neurodivergent artists' work - so it would be great to get your thoughts on this too so I can start planning. **Please RSVP if you can make it! I will need numbers before booking the table. RSVPs close Monday, 2 March at 11.59pm.** **Meet up format:** We usually meet for a drink (no pressure to drink alcohol!), introduce ourselves to each other, share examples of our work and have a chat! You don't need to bring anything, but a link to your website or social media so you can show us your creations would be lovely! We usually meet at a pub and whilst I always request one of the quieter tables - I am open to venue suggestions! I have left the event location as The Barrowboy and Banker for now, but please let me know if you know of anywhere more suitable by Monday 2 March. Hope to see you there! Amrita x

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

## 🍷 The Five-Minute Salon: Ideas, Rants & Revelations **An Evening of Short Talks & Lively Discussion** This is a salon-style discussion night for curious minds who enjoy thoughtful conversation, respectful disagreement, and a glass of wine. The format is simple, structured, and fun: **short talks, followed by open discussion** — no lectures, no panels, and no pressure to be an expert. If you like listening to interesting people think out loud — and doing the same yourself — this night is for you. *** ### 🕰 How the Evening Works Guests who wish to speak will each get: * **5 minutes** to talk about *any* topic that interests them (an idea, a question, a rant, something they know a lot about, or something they can’t stop thinking about) * **5 minutes** of group discussion immediately after You’re welcome to **bring notes or a couple of slides if that helps**, or you can **completely wing it** — both are equally encouraged. No preparation is required. You can decide your topic in advance or on the night. *** ### 💬 Example Topics (to Inspire You) You’re free to bring *any* topic. To give you a flavour, here are the kinds of things people often talk about: #### 🔥 Big, Provocative, Curiosity-Hooking * “A belief I held for years that completely collapsed” * “Something we’re all pretending is normal that absolutely isn’t” * “An opinion I’m slightly embarrassed to admit — but I think I’m right” * “A question that keeps me up at night” * “The strongest argument *against* my own position” * “A problem that would mostly disappear if we talked about it honestly” * “A hill I will die on — intellectually, not literally” #### 🧠 Politics, Culture & Society * “Is democracy actually compatible with social media?” * “Why housing feels broken even when the numbers ‘improve’” * “Has tolerance quietly turned into indifference?” * “Is the culture war mostly a distraction?” * “What will future generations judge us for?” * “Are we confusing progress with motion?” #### 🧬 Psychology, Identity & Human Behaviour * “Why smart people fall for obviously bad ideas” * “Is therapy making us better — or just more self-focused?” * “The lie we tell ourselves about happiness” * “Are we becoming more narcissistic, or just more honest?” * “Why we defend beliefs we don’t really believe” * “Is ‘being authentic’ overrated?” #### 🤖 Tech, Work & the Future * “What AI will actually change — and what it won’t” * “Is work still the centre of a meaningful life?” * “Why productivity culture makes us miserable” * “Would you want a frictionless life if you could have one?” * “Are we outsourcing too much thinking?” #### 🎭 Philosophy, Meaning & Life * “Is meaning discovered or invented?” * “What would a good life look like if no one was watching?” * “Is comfort the enemy of depth?” * “What do we owe strangers?” * “If you could erase one human trait, should you?” #### 🍷 Personal & Salon-Style * “Something I’ve never said out loud in a group like this” * “A time I was very wrong — and didn’t notice for years” * “A contradiction I live with” * “A question I hope someone else answers tonight” * “Why this topic matters more than people realise” Vent if you want. Teach if you want. Ask if you want. *** ### 🧠 Salon Etiquette To keep the night enjoyable and balanced for everyone: * Please respect the **5-minute time limits** * No interruptions during talks * Discussion > monologues * Disagreement is welcome; dominance is not * Attack ideas, not people The host will gently keep time and help the discussion flow. *** ### 🍷 Food & Drink * Wine drinking encouraged (BYOB to share) * Light snacks provided * Feel free to bring something extra if you’d like *** ### 📍 Location Address will be sent by **private message** to approved attendees. 1-minute walk from **Borough Station** / 8-minute walk from **London Bridge**. *** ### ⚠️ Important * **VERY LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE** * **RSVP is mandatory** * Address is sent **only by PM on Meetup** * Please ensure your Meetup notifications are turned on *** If you enjoy thoughtful conversation, hearing many perspectives in one evening, and a relaxed salon atmosphere — we’d love to have you. 🍷🕯️

Join **Large Outdoors** for a **scenic walking weekend along the Northumberland coast**, exploring **Lindisfarne (Holy Island), Bamburgh Castle, and unspoiled beaches**. This fully guided weekend offers stunning coastal walks, rich history, and a sociable atmosphere—perfect for those who love discovering new places on foot. ### **What to Expect:** 🚶 **Guided Walks** – Walk along Northumberland’s dramatic coastline, including a visit to Lindisfarne (Holy Island). 🏰 **Historic Highlights** – Discover the stories behind **Bamburgh Castle, Holy Island, and the tidal causeway**. 🛌 **Cosy Hostel Stay** – A welcoming base for the weekend with great company. 🌊 **Sociable & Relaxed** – A fantastic mix of **walking, coastal views, and history**. 📅 **Dates Available:** Various weekends in 2025 📍 **Location:** Northumberland, UK 🔗 **Full details & booking:** [https://www.largeoutdoors.com/explore-northumberlands-coast-walking-weekend-to-lindisfarne-holy-island-and-bamburgh](https://www.largeoutdoors.com/explore-northumberlands-coast-walking-weekend-to-lindisfarne-holy-island-and-bamburgh) Whether you’re drawn by the **history, landscapes, or peaceful coastal walks**, this is a **brilliant weekend for exploring one of the UK’s most stunning coastal areas**.

Celebrate International Women’s Day in South Wales \| Pen y Fan Day Hike Yes! We are off to South Wales - and what better way to celebrate International Women’s Day the outdoors than with fresh air, big Welsh views, good company, and that deeply satisfying end-of-day tired you only get from a great hike. Register your interest ASAP. This is a classic Pen y Fan day hike, designed to be challenging but achievable, with a relaxed pace and a supportive, uplifting group. No sunrise alarms. No pressure. Just a brilliant weekend escape, starting in Cardiff and heading into the Brecon Beacons together. Why this hike? Because International Women’s Day is more than a date - it’s a reminder to take space, feel strong, and celebrate ourselves. On this weekend, we’ll walk, connect, and create memories in the mountains together. The plan: Night 1 – Travel to Cardiff & Welcome Dinner * Meet in London (Paddington) and travel together to Cardiff (\~2 hours by train) PLUS Take a short bus journey to the start of the hike in the Brecon Beacons (\~40 minutes from Cardiff) * Enjoy a welcome dinner and kick off the weekend in style * Check into your hotel and settle in for the night Day 2 – Hike Day * Hike Pen y Fan: wide paths, steady climbs, stunning views, and plenty of breaks * Celebrate the achievement at the summit and along the trail * Optional post-hike social / small party to toast the adventure Day 3 – Cardiff & Explore * Return to Cardiff * Explore the city’s arches and streets * Enjoy a lunch together before heading back to London March is for women, mountains, and memories — let’s make it count! Who is this for? * Women who enjoy walking and want a step up from flat routes * Anyone reasonably fit who can manage a full day outdoors * You don’t need to be a “proper hiker” — just open to a challenge and the group pace This is not a race. We’ll walk together, regroup often, and support each other along the way. What to bring * Hiking boots (essential) * Warm layers + waterproof jacket * Lunch, snacks & water * Small backpack * Positive attitude (and maybe a post-hike pub plan) Guiding & organising fee: A £50 guiding & organising fee per person ensures: * Smooth logistics and safe travel * Group coordination and pacing * Pre-hike info, kit list, and transport guidance * Leadership and support on the day Estimated costs - around £250 depending on travel & accommodation choices. **Register your interest ASAP**! This is a small-group weekend — spots are limited to keep it supportive, safe, and fun. Register your interest now to secure your place and receive full travel, accommodation, and itinerary details.

Join us for our March Book Club gathering where we will come together to discuss *The Manor of Dreams* by Christina Li in a safe and welcoming environment. Make new friends who share your passion for books and connect with fellow LGBTQ book enthusiasts.

Meet in front of the Nature Center