Weekend Adventures

**Kyrgyzstan Tour - Bishkek, Karkyra, Lake Issyk Kul** **2-10 June 2026** Kyrgyzstan is famous for snowy peaks, high alpine meadows, broad grasslands filled with the fragrances of plants and flowers, clear mountain rivers, and serene mirrored lakes scattered among the tall peaks. This tour to Kyrgyzstan introduces you to these wild natural spots, as well as the ancient history of the Silk Road. From a luxury yurt camp in beautiful surroundings to watching locals play horse sports or hunt with eagles and to the towns and villages with their exotic bazaars, this will be a unique, off-the-beaten-track experience. **Itinerary** **Day One - Bishkek** Arrivals in Bishkek. Transfers from airport to hotel. 14.00 Optional Bishkek City Sightseeing Tour including: A visit to the main Ala Too Square (formerly Lenin Square) and its monuments to Kurmanzhan Datka (The Queen of the South) and Manas (a 10th century legendary hero of the Kyrgyz people). Then we see the Old Square and see Bishkek’s huge Lenin statue - the only major statue of Lenin remaining in Central Asia. Here are the main governmental buildings and Parliament House, the Old Square and Parliament House. We visit colorful Osh Bazaar for shopping. The tour finishes at Victory Square which is dedicated to victory over Nazi Germany in WWII. **Day Two - Bishkek - Chon Kemin Vally** After breakfast in the hotel, we will drive one hour to see the Burana Tower near Tokmok town. This UNESCO-listed large minaret is all that remains of the ancient 9th century city of Balasagun. It is one of the oldest architectural structures in Central Asia and was used as the template for other minarets. We then visit Don Aryk Village where we will watch horseback riding games at the local hippodrome. A local family will provide us with lunch. We will stay in a guest house in the Chon Kemin Valley. Those who are interested can also learn how to set up a yurt with locals. Dinner in the guest house **Day Three - Chon Kemin Valley - Lake Issyk Kul** After breakfast in our guest house we drive to Lake Issyk Kul via the Boom gorge. Sites we will visit include petroglyphs (ancient rock carvings) and an open air museum. Lake Issyk Kul is one of the largest and deepest lakes in the world and due to its incredible transparency, it is second only to Lake Baikal. Accommodation will be a hotel in the resort area on the shore of Lake Issyk Kul. We will have free time to explore this area. **Day Four - Cholpon Ata Town - Karkyra Valley (Luxury Yurt Camp)** Breakfast in our hotel. After driving along the north shore of Issyk Kul Lake, we reach the beautiful area near the border with Kazakhstan - Karkyra. We will stay in a luxury yurt camp with en-suite facilities where we can enjoy the beautiful scenery and have time to walk along the canyon or hike up the closest hill for panoramic views. For those who ride, horses are available (extra cost). Lunch and dinner will be provided in the yurt camp. **Day Five - Karkyra Valley - Karakol Town** Breakfast at the yurt camp. On the way to Karakol Town, we will stop at the Tepke Horse Farm where Kyrgyz racing horses are bred. Horses are an extremely important part of Kyrgyz culture and life. The farm has beautiful views and gardens. They will serve us a delicious lunch here. We visit Dungan Mosque which was constructed in the shape of a pagoda and built entirely without nails. The Dungans, Chinese Muslims who fled warfare in China in the 1880s, built the colourful mosque with a pagoda instead of a minaret. Next is the Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Church whose story goes back to 1869 when Karakol was basically a garrison town established as an outpost on the edges of the Tsarist Russian Empire and a church was needed to serve the Cossacks and other troops. Dinner will be in the village of Yrdyk where a local Dungan (Chinese Muslims who emigrated to Central Asia over 100 years ago) family will teach us how to make Dungan specialities. We will eat with the family. Accommodation in a hotel in Karakol. **Day Six - Full Day in Karakol Town** After breakfast, there is an optional early morning visit to the Karakol Animal Market (every Sunday, ends at 10am). Karakol is the gathering point for nomads in the surrounding valleys, especially for the popular animal market. There are sections for horses, cattle and sheep and you may even see the occasional donkey or even camel. Return to hotel for breakfast. Visit Slavic market and “One Village One Product” factory where they produce local felt products. Free time to walk around Karakol and see the Tsar Russia legacy and visit the local bazaar. In the evening we will have dinner with a Cossack family. They will show us their traditional costumes, taste their homemade drinks (!), show us how to bake black the bread and prepare a unique meal for us. **Day Seven - Karakol Town - Djety Oguz, Barskoon and Skazka Gorges - Kadji Say Village** Breakfast at the hotel. A stunning drive will take us through changing landscapes and we will see the famous “Broken Heart Rock” and “Seven Bulls Rocks”. Next we will visit the lovely waterfalls of the Barskoon gorge and after a beautiful panorama of Issyk Kul. In the evening we will arrive at Kadji Say Village where we will stay at a unique hotel and will have dinner there. **Day Eight - Kadji Village - Bishkek City** Breakfast at the hotel. We drive to Bokonbaevo Village where we visit a local woman’s cooperative who produce some of Kyrgyzstan’s most popular presents and souvenirs. The Kyrgyz rugs here are beautiful and not difficult to transport. Nearby we also have the opportunity to watch an eagle-hunting demonstration. We arrive in in Bishkek and check into our hotel. Free time and an optional farewell dinner in Bishkek. **Day Nine - Bishkek** Breakfast in the hotel followed by airport transfers This tour is limited to nine people and transportation will be provided in a Mercedes Sprinter. **Price - GBP £1780 per person. Single supplement GBP £195** **Bring:** Comfortable walking shoes Lip balm and moisturiser (it is a very dry climate) Sun screen A coat or jacket - we will be in the mountains on some days Cash - many places do not take credit cards. **Included:** Accommodation in hotels, guest houses and a yurt (with en-suite) All ground transportation by comfortable air-conditioned minibus 9 x breakfast, 3 x lunch, 5 x dinner Sightseeing with local English speaking guides Eagle hunting demonstration and horseback riding games (as spectators) Entrance tickets to the monuments and museums on all tours Bottled water provided daily (one bottle per person per day) **The price does not include:** Visa cost (no visa required for EU, UK, Canada, Australia) International flights Lunches and dinners that are not included or are optional in the schedule Optional horseback riding Any additional transportation to anywhere not listed in the schedule Any charges at monuments and museums for using video or cameras Hard drinks Porter service if required Tipping for drivers and guides International arrival/departure transfers can be arranged for approx £25 each way.

**Kyrgyzstan Tour - Bishkek, Karkyra, Lake Issyk Kul** **2-10 June 2026 (9-17 June is also available)** Kyrgyzstan is famous for snowy peaks, high alpine meadows, broad grasslands filled with the fragrances of plants and flowers, clear mountain rivers, and serene mirrored lakes scattered among the tall peaks. This tour to Kyrgyzstan introduces you to these wild natural spots, as well as the ancient history of the Silk Road. From a luxury yurt camp in beautiful surroundings to watching locals play horse sports or hunt with eagles and to the towns and villages with their exotic bazaars, this will be a unique, off-the-beaten-track experience. **Itinerary** **Day One - Bishkek** Arrivals in Bishkek. Transfers from airport to hotel. 14.00 Optional Bishkek City Sightseeing Tour including: A visit to the main Ala Too Square (formerly Lenin Square) and its monuments to Kurmanzhan Datka (The Queen of the South) and Manas (a 10th century legendary hero of the Kyrgyz people). Then we see the Old Square and see Bishkek’s huge Lenin statue - the only major statue of Lenin remaining in Central Asia. Here are the main governmental buildings and Parliament House, the Old Square and Parliament House. We visit colorful Osh Bazaar for shopping. The tour finishes at Victory Square which is dedicated to victory over Nazi Germany in WWII. **Day Two - Bishkek - Chon Kemin Vally** After breakfast in the hotel, we will drive one hour to see the Burana Tower near Tokmok town. This UNESCO-listed large minaret is all that remains of the ancient 9th century city of Balasagun. It is one of the oldest architectural structures in Central Asia and was used as the template for other minarets. We then visit Don Aryk Village where we will watch horseback riding games at the local hippodrome. A local family will provide us with lunch. We will stay in a guest house in the Chon Kemin Valley. Those who are interested can also learn how to set up a yurt with locals. Dinner in the guest house **Day Three - Chon Kemin Valley - Lake Issyk Kul** After breakfast in our guest house we drive to Lake Issyk Kul via the Boom gorge. Sites we will visit include petroglyphs (ancient rock carvings) and an open air museum. Lake Issyk Kul is one of the largest and deepest lakes in the world and due to its incredible transparency, it is second only to Lake Baikal. Accommodation will be a hotel in the resort area on the shore of Lake Issyk Kul. We will have free time to explore this area. **Day Four - Cholpon Ata Town - Karkyra Valley (Luxury Yurt Camp)** Breakfast in our hotel. After driving along the north shore of Issyk Kul Lake, we reach the beautiful area near the border with Kazakhstan - Karkyra. We will stay in a luxury yurt camp with en-suite facilities where we can enjoy the beautiful scenery and have time to walk along the canyon or hike up the closest hill for panoramic views. For those who ride, horses are available (extra cost). Lunch and dinner will be provided in the yurt camp. **Day Five - Karkyra Valley - Karakol Town** Breakfast at the yurt camp. On the way to Karakol Town, we will stop at the Tepke Horse Farm where Kyrgyz racing horses are bred. Horses are an extremely important part of Kyrgyz culture and life. The farm has beautiful views and gardens. They will serve us a delicious lunch here. We visit Dungan Mosque which was constructed in the shape of a pagoda and built entirely without nails. The Dungans, Chinese Muslims who fled warfare in China in the 1880s, built the colourful mosque with a pagoda instead of a minaret. Next is the Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Church whose story goes back to 1869 when Karakol was basically a garrison town established as an outpost on the edges of the Tsarist Russian Empire and a church was needed to serve the Cossacks and other troops. Dinner will be in the village of Yrdyk where a local Dungan (Chinese Muslims who emigrated to Central Asia over 100 years ago) family will teach us how to make Dungan specialities. We will eat with the family. Accommodation in a hotel in Karakol. **Day Six - Full Day in Karakol Town** After breakfast, there is an optional early morning visit to the Karakol Animal Market (every Sunday, ends at 10am). Karakol is the gathering point for nomads in the surrounding valleys, especially for the popular animal market. There are sections for horses, cattle and sheep and you may even see the occasional donkey or even camel. Return to hotel for breakfast. Visit Slavic market and “One Village One Product” factory where they produce local felt products. Free time to walk around Karakol and see the Tsar Russia legacy and visit the local bazaar. In the evening we will have dinner with a Cossack family. They will show us their traditional costumes, taste their homemade drinks (!), show us how to bake black the bread and prepare a unique meal for us. **Day Seven - Karakol Town - Djety Oguz, Barskoon and Skazka Gorges - Kadji Say Village** Breakfast at the hotel. A stunning drive will take us through changing landscapes and we will see the famous “Broken Heart Rock” and “Seven Bulls Rocks”. Next we will visit the lovely waterfalls of the Barskoon gorge and after a beautiful panorama of Issyk Kul. In the evening we will arrive at Kadji Say Village where we will stay at a unique hotel and will have dinner there. **Day Eight - Kadji Village - Bishkek City** Breakfast at the hotel. We drive to Bokonbaevo Village where we visit a local woman’s cooperative who produce some of Kyrgyzstan’s most popular presents and souvenirs. The Kyrgyz rugs here are beautiful and not difficult to transport. Nearby we also have the opportunity to watch an eagle-hunting demonstration. We arrive in in Bishkek and check into our hotel. Free time and an optional farewell dinner in Bishkek. **Day Nine - Bishkek** Breakfast in the hotel followed by airport transfers This tour is limited to nine people and transportation will be provided in a Mercedes Sprinter. **Price - GBP £1780 per person. Single supplement GBP £195** **Bring:** Comfortable walking shoes Lip balm and moisturiser (it is a very dry climate) Sun screen A coat or jacket - we will be in the mountains on some days Cash - many places do not take credit cards. **Included:** Accommodation in hotels, guest houses and a yurt (with en-suite) All ground transportation by comfortable air-conditioned minibus 9 x breakfast, 3 x lunch, 5 x dinner Sightseeing with local English speaking guides Eagle hunting demonstration and horseback riding games (as spectators) Entrance tickets to the monuments and museums on all tours Bottled water provided daily (one bottle per person per day) **The price does not include:** Visa cost (no visa required for EU, UK, Canada, Australia) International flights Lunches and dinners that are not included or are optional in the schedule Optional horseback riding Any additional transportation to anywhere not listed in the schedule Any charges at monuments and museums for using video or cameras Hard drinks Porter service if required Tipping for drivers and guides International arrival/departure transfers can be arranged for approx £25 each way.

Weekly London Friendship Group meetup at Hot Toddy;s, Camden. Come along meet new friends, chat and create new connections. Plus FREE entry to the Comedy Show, Hot Comedy at 8:00pm

A Rabble session is 1 hour of fun and social team games. Each game disguises high-intensity intervals within the rules, giving you an effective, all-body workout without even realising it. We play a bunch of different games at each session (like British Bulldog, Capture the Flag, Dodgeball, Frisbee and many more), and every class is different. Sessions are open to all, no matter your sporting ability. Each game is explained before we start, so there's no need to have played any of the games before. Come solo or bring friends! And stay at the end for the social part! Who knew getting fit could be this fun? **TO BOOK**: It's essential that you book onto sessions via our website, using the link below; due to restrictions on games and preparation times we cannot accept walk-ins, or late arrivals. [https://joinrabble.com/locations/london/](https://joinrabble.com/locations/london/) Use the code **FREEPLAY** to get your first game free! *** We play every: * Monday in Finsbury Park (19:00 - 20:00) * Tuesday in Shoreditch Park (19:00 - 20:00) * Wednesdays in Elephant & Castle (19:00-20:00) * Saturday in Southwark Park (10:30 - 11:30) * Saturday in Finsbury Park (11:00 - 12:00) * Sunday in Clapham Common (12:00 - 13:00) We hope to see you playing soon! PS. We have a group of dedicated regulars, so numbers are usually much higher than meetup might suggest. Sign up at: [https://joinrabble.com/locations/london/](https://joinrabble.com/locations/london/) **Love Rabble**

**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**™**.

**Meeting Point:** Outside Wimbledon Chase Station at 10:30 am and start at 10:45 am sharp! **Difficulty:** Moderate - medium paced hike **Distance:** 14 to 16 miles **Elevation Gain:** approx., 450 m **Transport:** Wimbledon Chase Station is accessible via train services. If driving, you can park in nearby streets or car parks around Wimbledon Chase Station. Please make sure to reach early to find parking. **Description:** We will explore the scenic beauty of Wimbledon Common and Richmond Park during this hike in London. Starting from Wimbledon Chase Station, the route takes through iconic landmarks such as Wimbledon Windmill Museum, Queensmere, Treebox Wood, Pen Ponds, and the vibrant Isabella Plantation. The trail offers stunning landscapes and opportunities to observe local wildlife, including birds and deer. Expect mixed terrain, with forest paths, grassy trails, and sections that cross a golf course and busy roads. We will go to a pub close to the station and socialise after the hike. **What to Bring:** * Comfortable hiking shoes or boots * Weather-appropriate clothing * Water (recommend 2 liters) * Snacks and lunch * A good positive spirit (preferably the kind that laughs when there are any uphill sections) **Important Notes:** * Ensure you are physically prepared. * Be mindful of busy road crossings and golf course sections. * Respect fellow walkers, wildlife, and other natural surroundings. **Additional Notes:** * RSVP to secure your spot. * Update your RSVP if your plans change so others can join. * **Rules:** Please make sure to read the about us section of the group before joining - https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities * **Stay Together**: Please stay with or behind the hike leader to maintain group pace and cohesion. * **Safety Reminder**: This is a voluntary activity. Participants are responsible for their own safety and for respecting fellow walkers, wildlife, and the environment. No risk or liability is inferred or accepted by the organizer. Looking forward to hiking with you and exploring this adventure together. 📱 For any issues, contact me via mobile/WhatsApp at 07830374629.

################# **This hike is now FULL.** **We’ve created a list of [FAQs](https://drive.google.com/file/d/12gIZWTLfA3zQsx1fb0lpv1zOWP2vC5tq/view?usp=drive_link) to help answer your questions.** ################# The Lake District is England's largest national park and by far the most popular in the UK. Every year, some 19 million people pitch up to explore the region's mountains and countryside, and it's not hard to see why. Its postcard panorama of craggy hilltops, mountain tarns and glittering lakes has been stirring the imaginations of visitors for centuries. In 2017, the Lake District was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, joining the likes of the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China and the Grand Canyon on the illustrious list. It was the UK’s first national park to be given such status. On the first day of our trip, we'll summit Scafell Pike – the highest mountain in England, rising to 978 metres above sea level. We'll do our walk from Wasdale valley, which offers the shortest and the most popular approach to the peak. The route starts at almost the sea level, by ascending alongside Lingmell Gill. After crossing the river, the path then leads to Hollow Stones and Lingmell Col, before the final rocky ascent to Scafell Pike. Throughout the whole hike, we'll enjoy superb views of Wast Water, England's deepest lake, the surrounding peaks and dramatic crags. After the hike, we'll drive to our hotel, where we'll have dinner and rest. Sunday will be much more relaxing! Today's walk is low-level, and will take us around two of the prettiest lakes in the Lake District – Grasmere and Rydal Water. We'll visit the large cavern of Rydal Cave, with its stepping stones. This famous Lakeland beauty spot is actually man-made, and is the result of slate quarrying over 200 years ago. We'll climb Loughrigg Fell (335m) and enjoy amazing panoramic views (it's often from the lower hills that you get the best views!). The hike will finish at Grasmere village, where we'll have lunch and visit the famous Grasmere Gingerbread Shop – an absolute must-do in the Lakes! **ITINERARY** **Saturday:** **06:45** Meet outside Hotel Novotel London West, 1 Shortlands, W6 8DR (a five-minute walk from Hammersmith Station) **07:00** Sharp departure **07:00-14:30** Transfer, with two stops at services (30 and 15 minutes) **14:30-19:00** Hike to Scafell Pike from Wasdale Head (difficulty: [Difficult](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BMjvqhAAdSeCdyzLPHs0z04_e2TiKdci/view?usp=sharing), distance: 9km, ascent: 910m) **20:00** Check-in at Premier Inn Whitehaven Hotel, dinner and free time **Sunday:** **07:00** Breakfast **08:00** Departure **09:00­-13:30** Rydal Water and Grasmere circular walk, via Rydal Cave and Loughrigg Fell (difficulty: [Moderate](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BMjvqhAAdSeCdyzLPHs0z04_e2TiKdci/view?usp=sharing), distance: 11km, ascent: 530m) **13:30-15:00** Lunch in Grasmere, one of the prettiest villages in the Lake District; free time to visit the famous Grasmere Gingerbread Shop and buy souvenirs **15:00** Departure **19:00** Stop at services for dinner **21:00** London, Hammersmith **DIFFICULTY & EQUIPMENT** Please note that this trip requires a good level of fitness. Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support and waterproof clothing are essential. **PRIVATE ROOM** The default option is a shared twin room at the hotel (you'll share your room with somebody from our group of the same gender). A small number of private rooms, for your own use, is available for £30 extra – let us know if you would like an upgrade! **TRANSPORT** As on most of our trips, we'll travel in a comfortable 16-seater minibus. **LUGGAGE** You can bring two small bags with you: one cabin size personal item bag (up to 10kg) and one smaller hiking backpack to fit under the seat. During the hike, you can leave your luggage in the minibus. **BOOKING** To keep ticket prices down and avoid PayPal/Meetup fees (£20 extra per ticket), we kindly ask for payment by bank transfer. Please include your Meetup name and the trip as the payment reference (e.g. John Lake District). As places are limited, we can hold your place for 24 hours. Business Account Name: London Social Hiking Limited Sort Code: 20-17-20 Account Number: 63116514 We'll let you know by changing your status to “Paid” as soon as the payment is cleared. You can check your status next to your name in the [attendees list](https://www.meetup.com/londonsocialhiking/events/313570314/attendees) of the event. You don’t need a paid Meetup subscription to do this – just close any pop-up windows and continue. **THE PRICE OF £278 INCLUDES** * Transport throughout the trip * Experienced, professional PSV minibus driver * Guiding on all hiking routes by an experienced and qualified Mountain Leader * One night's accommodation at a hotel in shared twin rooms (you'll share your room with somebody from our group of the same gender) * Professional event organisation * Group first aid kit with qualified first aiders * Admin fee * 20% VAT **THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** * Personal insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects, and personal trekking insurance) * Food **HOW TO CONTACT US** For all enquiries, please PM Anna (the main organiser) via Meetup. Alternatively, you can email us at info@lshiking.co.uk We'll usually get back to you within 4 hours. Your guide will be Anna (07596844467, only for use during the hike). Please get in touch if you have any difficulty locating the meeting point or need help during the trip. **WHAT TO BRING** * Suitable hiking shoes with ankle support * Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers * Gloves/hat/cap * Water bottle (min 1L) * Nuts and energy snacks to last you during the trip * Walking poles (optional) * Gaiters (optional) * Second pair of comfortable (non-hiking) shoes for minibus journeys * Comfortable clothes to change after the hike **REVIEWS ⭐** We have hosted over 600 events on Meetup and received an incredible number of positive reviews from our community. We’re proud to have achieved an **average event rating of 4.8 out of 5**. Please keep sharing your feedback – it helps us continue to improve and make every trip even better! **JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA** This is where we share pictures from our events. Feel free to use for inspiration on where to go next! [Facebook group link](https://www.facebook.com/groups/220802492121957) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/london_social_hiking/) **REFUND POLICY** You can check our refund policy [here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ny-b2NmMzBlpCiKjzkqC2vJEisxlORpn/view?usp=drive_link).

Suffolk is an area of eastern England that is not often visited by students. This is mainly because not many of the places are particularly famous. But this region contains some beautiful towns and villages with old buildings which were important historically and this is a lovely place to spend the day. We start by travelling to the town of Bury St. Edmunds, whose abbey was once one of the richest in the country. Later on we go to Lavenham, a village with some beautiful old buildings which was once an important wool town. This is a chance to spend some time away from the busy city to see a quiter, more traditional side of England. The price includes train fare to Bury St. Edmunds and bus to Lavenham and guided walks of both places.

Join us for a Sunday afternoon in June ☀️ ✨✍️ Welcome 🥾✨ This event is suitable for all, from total beginners to experienced artists. It is a welcoming space to ask others with help on composition, perspective and shading. Please bring your own sketchbook and materials of your choice - from pencils, biros and markers to charcoal, pastels and paints. Feel free to bring your own food and drink. We could also check out the local cafés ☕️ 🪷🦜About Battersea Park 🦜🪷 This 200 acre Victorian park, is considered one of London’s finest parks! It was built between 1854 and 1870 and sits on the banks of the Thames of South West London. Let’s explore the riverside promenade, large lake, many notable trees and ecological areas! 🚂 Getting here 🚌 Let’s meet from 12pm at Chelsea Gate, which is located on Queenstown Road, just south of Chelsea Bridge. From 12.15pm we could walk together towards The Peace Pagoda. The closest overground train stations are Battersea Park Station and Queenstown Road Station. Both have a short walk. Sloane Square is the nearest underground station. From the station, walk down Lower Sloane Street and Chelsea Bridge Road, or take a 137 bus. Bus numbers 44, 452 and 137 alight at the Chelsea Gate bus stop.

A quick intro Join us on Wednesday 3rd June for a gentle and scenic 13.3 km (\~8.3 mile) loop walk from the quiet village of Shipbourne, starting beside the historic St Giles Church and green. This relaxed route explores a peaceful stretch of the Kent countryside, meandering through open farmland, hedgerow paths and woodland edges. It’s almost entirely flat and perfect for a calm, social-paced midweek hike. Highlights: Starts at the historic St Giles Church Easy-going paths through picturesque rural Kent Great for relaxed walking, chats and connecting with nature Schedule Date: 3 June 2026 Meet and Start Time: 10:00 meet for 10:15 am start Walking time: 3-4 hrs (incl. lunch break) Walk Leader: Rachel Stockey Location Meeting point: Car Park on Upper Green Road, Shipbourne what3words: ///means.cable.work Car Parking: Charges not included Route Terrain: Flat (minimal elevation change) Distance: Approximately 13.3 km (8.2 miles) Difficulty: Easy Elevation Gain/Loss: Minimal (flat terrain) Walk Type: Circular Your kit list Suitable footwear (preferably walking boots or sturdy shoes, no flip-flops) A waterproof coat (and waterproof trousers, if you have them) for rainy days Drinking water and a packed lunch Personal medication (Let us know confidentially about any medical conditions) Suitable walking attire Important Notes We welcome friendly dogs on our walks, provided they remain on a lead at all times. The owner is fully responsible for their dog throughout the walk. We take photos during our walks for promotional and training purposes. If you prefer not to be included, just let us know on the day. Cancellation policy states: Full payment becomes due if a user cancels within 4 days of the activity. Any person cancelling outside of 4 days, will receive a credit available to use within 90 days. Cancel at least 4 days before the event to receive a credit note for a future walk, valid for 90 days.

Join Bold Spirit Travel for an all-women’s journey through the [heart of Provence. ](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/south-of-france-provence-2026) From charming villages and bustling markets, to lavender fields and coastal cliffs, this adventure blends history, art, food, and stunning landscapes. Your base is a boutique hotel in Aix-en-Provence, the perfect hub for exploring southern France. *\*We can only take 10 women on this trip.* **Highlights** * **Aix-en-Provence** – stroll cobbled streets, browse colorful markets, and enjoy lively cafés. * **Marseilles** – tour its historic basilica and meet traditional soap makers. * **Arles & Wine Tasting** – explore Roman ruins and sip wines at Mas Valériole estate. * **Lavender Fields** – capture the beauty of Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque. * **Cassis & the Calanques** – enjoy seaside scenery and an optional boat ride. * **St. Rémy** – wander the vibrant market and visit Van Gogh’s former monastery. * **Les Baux-de-Provence** – experience the dazzling immersive light show. * **Cabrières-d’Avignon** – discover lavender’s artistry at the Lavender Museum. **What's Included:** * 6 nights in a boutique hotel (shared occupancy; private upgrades available). * Expert Bold Spirit tour leader plus bilingual local guides. * Meals as listed in the itinerary. * Private ground transportation. * Pre-trip support: Zoom call, WhatsApp group, and packing guidance. **Why Travel With Us?** This Provence adventure is designed for women who love travel, culture, and connection. You’ll share meals, explore iconic sites, and enjoy the slower pleasures of the French countryside—with expert guidance and community every step of the way. **Pricing:** * **Trip Cost:** USD 5,885 * **Deposit:** USD 700 non-refundable (secures hotels and guides) Get in touch with us to set up a call and learn [more](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/south-of-france-provence-2026). Contact:[ https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact)