Weekend Adventures

This walk takes us into the **dark and dramatic history of London’s riverside**, following the Thames from Tower Hill to Wapping, once alive with sailors, smugglers, pirates, and river rogues. We begin at the **Tower Hill**, where traitors and nobles met their fate before the watching crowds. From there we pass **Tower Bridge** and step into **St Katharine Docks**, once a bustling hub where the riches of empire were unloaded. We continue along the hidden alleys and ancient stairs of **Wapping High Street**, tracing the last footsteps of the condemned at **Wapping Old Stairs**. Along the way we’ll visit the **Town of Ramsgate**, where the notorious Judge Jeffreys was captured; the **Captain Kidd**, named after the most legendary pirate ever to hang at Execution Dock; and the **Prospect of Whitby**, the “Devil’s Tavern,” where sailors and smugglers once plotted by candlelight. We return via waters of **Shadwell Basin**, passing the replica ships at **Tobacco Dock**, and the quiet canals of Wapping before we pass **Traitors’ Gate** and end the evening back at Tower Hill where you are welcome to join us for refreshments at the **Hung, Drawn and Quartered** pub a fitting finale to a journey into London’s bloody maritime past. ## 📍 Walk Details * **Start Point:** Tower Hill Station (by the Tower Hill sundial). * **End Point:** The Hung Drawn and Quartered Pub (near Tower Hill or Monument tube) * **Distance:** 7km easy pace, with frequent stops for stories * **Duration:** 2.5 hours including breaks. * **Difficulty:** Easy flat riverside walking. * **Leader:** Gary 07968585224 ## ✅ What to Bring * Comfortable walking shoes. * Weather-appropriate clothing. * Water/snacks if you like. ## Stay Connected 📱 WhatsApp: 07968585224 📩 Mailing List: Go London 🌐 Website: www.golondonhiking.co.uk 📸 Instagram: [@golondonhiking](https://www.instagram.com/golondonhiking/) 👍 Facebook Page: [Go London Adventure](https://www.facebook.com/GoLondonAdventure/) 👥 Facebook Group: [Go London Hiking](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoLondonHiking/) 📜 Terms & Conditions By signing up, you agree to our full T&Cs including cancellation/refund policy.

**NATURE GETAWAY IN OLD PLOVDIV AND THE VALLEY OF ROSES** **4th June to 8th June 2026** Repeat trip due to popular demand! Explore the history-rich sites of the 6th oldest city in the world, Plovdiv, (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/galleries/The-worlds-20-oldest-cities/1old-plovdiv/) visit Bulgaria’s enticing valley of roses with its acclaimed Rose Festival and discover the secrets of the age-old tradition of rose oil production. **OLD PLOVDIV – A JOURNEY TO ANTIQUITY** Plovdiv is one of the most ancient cities in the world with signs of habitation dating as far back as the 6th millennium BC. The Old Town of Plovdiv is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s small, quiet and picturesque and a real gem for culture and history lovers! **Fascinating highlights:** **The world’s most aromatic rose oil today comes from Bulgaria.** **‣ The highest percentage of rose attar in the world is obtained from the Valley of Roses, Bulgaria** **‣ The Bulgarian “attar” of roses is an important component in the perfume business throughout the world.** **‣ Rosa Damascena is the name of the oil-yielding rose, which made Bulgaria famous for the production of the best rose oil in the world. Damascus, Rosa Damascena Mill was brought to Bulgarian lands during the 17th century.** **‣ Plovdiv is the World’s 6th most ancient city and European cultural capital for 2019.** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtH_TAXUf80 The festival itself takes place every year on the first Saturday of June. It originates in the Rose Valley and runs across the near by towns of Karlovo, Kalofer, and Kazanlak. The area is breathtaking when the famous Bulgarian rose blossoms in May/June exuding its enticing fragrance. 3,5 tons of rose petals go into the making of one kilogram of rose oil, which costs as much as gold. **Join this extraordinary experience in Bulgaria, take part in the authentic rose-picking ritual and gain insights into the rose-distillation process. In addition to the authentic rose gathering ritual, the festival offers a small beauty-pageant of a kind, where the most beautiful girl amongst the rose-pickers is crowned Queen Rose.** But that’s not all! There are even more celebratory events taking place during the festival weekend, such as choir a cappella, folklore concerts, art shows, exhibitions, wine-tastings and much more! **Dates 4th June to 8th June 2026** **Itinerary:** Day 1 Arrival in Plovdiv Meeting and greeting with your local host. Transfer to hotel check-in Dinner with the group Day 2 Breakfast. Walking tour in the Old town of Plovdiv. Lunch near Plovdiv Roman stadium. Dinner with the group Day 3 Breakfast. Departure to Rose festival - a day full of impressions. Transfer to Plovdiv in the evening Day 4 Breakfast. Lunch and wine tasting experience Free time for shopping, sightseeing in Plovdiv. Day 5 Breakfast Departure to Sofia and full day in the city centre Last impressions and a private transfer to Sofia airport for an late afternoon flight. **What is included:** **4 nights in a 4-star central hotel in Plovdiv** **4 breakfasts** **2 Guided walking tours** **One day trip to Rose Valley Festival** **Rose picking ritual** **Entrance fee to Old Plovdiv Revival house** **Degustation of rose products: rose jam, rose liquor** **Wine tasting experience and appetisers** **Transfers from/to the airports in Bulgaria** **Social event with the group, before flying to Bulgaria** **Tour leader** **Compliance with Travel Package Regulations and financial protection 2018** What is not included: Flights: London- Sofia Personal expenses; Travel insurance. **The price for this trip: £580 in a twin/double room share.** **Single supplement: £ 80** To secure your place £150 (non-refundable deposit) info@travelinvision.com or 0740 3358828 for further details.

EVENING WALK - BARNET TO WOOD GREEN LINEAR WALK - 6 mile linear walk, following the Pymmes Brook from Oak Hill Park to Arnos Park, then the New River to Wood Green. Possibility of food and drink after. Walk Leader: Leon Meet 6pm for a prompt 6.15pm start at the entrance to Oak Hill Park at the corner of Church Hill Road / Little Grove. Tube (Piccadilly Line at Wood Green), bus or train (main line at Ally Pally) for onward travel afterwards.

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.

**The magical vibe of Athens, the iconic capital city of Greece, awaits!** Visit unique world heritage sites, everyone should visit once in their life! **Think of colourful streets, greek authentic taverns, innate hospitality, discover, explore....** *Make memories and tick new places off your bucket list!* ***Feel free to join on your own as most people do and enjoy travelling in a friendly group setting, bring your plus one, if you wish, the more the merrier!*** **Indicative itinerary :** **4th June, Thursday** : Arrival and catch up with all attendees once we reach the hotel. Take time to briefly explore on foot the historical city centre and be immersed in Athens heart! **-Ancient Agora**: Visit the commercial and social heart of ancient Athens, featuring the exceptionally well-preserved **Temple of Hephaestus**. **-Monastiraki Flea Market**: Shop for unique souvenirs, antiques, and local crafts. **-Psyrri**: Enjoy dinner in this trendy district known for its street art, artisan shops, and lively nightlife. **5th June Friday:** A day to discover **the Foundations of History of Ancient Greece. Get started with a free - tip based - walking tour with a local guide around Athens historical centre as the locals always know best!** Focus on the iconic landmarks that define the Athenian skyline. * **The Acropolis & Parthenon** Set foot to the classical spirit and cradle of civilization to the world! * **Acropolis Museum**: See original artifacts, including the Parthenon marbles, in a modern setting. * **Plaka & Anafiotika**: Wander the cobblestone streets of Plaka, the city’s oldest neighborhood. Don't miss **Anafiotika**, a tiny "island-style" village tucked directly under the Acropolis. **6th June Saturday** : Optional full-day escape to **Hydra, one of Greece’s most elegant and famous islands**, exploring cobble stone white washed car-free alleys, (not donkey free though!), jasmine-scented courtyards, learn about its maritime legacy, taste traditional almond sweets (amygdalota), enjoy free time at Spilia to swim, shop, or relax by the harbour. Alternatively we may choose, instead of the day trip to Hydra, to visit and discover the treasures of the Peloponnese area. You'll visit the Corinth Canal that connects the Aegean and Ionian Seas, the archaeological site of Mycenae, the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus and the coastal city of Nafplion, all truly beautiful! **7th June, Sunday** : Free time around Athens before your departure or stay one more night and make the most with an optional day trip to the oracle of Delphi, the centre of the world as per the Ancient Greeks or to the ancient theatre of Epidaurus equally of major importance . **Your investment of £439 includes :** **-3 nights in a 3\* boutique hotel in a spacious double room for SINGLE occupancy (you have your own room) very centrally located centrally located, near all attractions, bars, restaurants** **-Breakfast buffet with delicious local delicacies each morning** **-A welcome drink during our first dinner (choice of a glass of local wine, a beer or a soft drink)** **-Free - tip based - walking tour with a local guide around the historical centre of Athens** ***-Organising & hosting throughout the trip*** ***\- Necessary arrangements for a smooth experience\. Eleni is co\-ordinating the group throughout the course of the trip\.*** IF YOU WANT TO BRING YOUR *PLUS ONE sharing the same room, it is suitable & available, GET IN TOUCH THE SOONEST for exact price for each person.* ***ALSO, IF YOU WISH TO EXTEND YOUR STAY!*** ***PLEASE NOTE THAT FLIGHTS ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE, YOU NEED TO BOOK YOUR OWN FLIGHTS TO ATHENS, GREECE (ATH is the airport code)*** Recommended flights : Eleni is flying out with Wizz flight from Luton at 06:20 if you would like to travel all together or feel free to choose what suits you best and we can meet up at the hotel. If you need assistance to book, please be in touch. Shared airport transfers can be arranged once we have the exact amount of participants. **The trip is confirmed and is going ahead.** **YOU MUST MAKE ARRANGEMENTS FOR YOUR OWN TRAVEL INSURANCE AND ENSURE YOUR PASSPORT ALLOWS TRAVEL TO GREECE**

A most wonderful 8.5 to 9 mile walk in Hampshire tracing the steps of Jane Austen whose house we shall visit en route ! Group return train tickets for the train at 9.53am to be purchased that arrives at Alton at 11.10am. Train ticket : Alton Return. Or you may decide to drive. Please bring packed lunch, water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and walking shoes/boots/trainers. The walk shall start by 11.15am. You should be able to walk 2.5 miles per hour and have adequate and appropriate insurance for this type of activity. Meetup fee £5 payable in cash or in advance by bank transfer. We shall have a drink at the end of the walk. If you wish to visit Jane Austen's House please make an online booking for around 3.45pm and then we shall all take the bus before taking the 5.14pm train back to London. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no is 07714250849..

**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).

**Looking for a nice day trip out of London this bank holiday weekend?** **You found it.Join our group of ladies to Shakespeare’s hometown.👯‍♀️💃🧚‍♀️** **What to expect on the trip: a stroll through a town that looks like a movie set from a 17th-century film. Green parks and tree-lined paths connected by small bridges across the town, picturesque riverside views with swans passing by gracefully, and neat, cosy pubs perfect for trying a traditional British roast.** **The itinerary is below👇, also see the screenshots for the tickets we will all buy for our trip in the comments to this event:** **Meeting point: In front of the platform our train departs from.** **🚆 12:00 – Depart London Marylebone Station** **📍 ~13:45 – Arrive Stratford-upon-Avon railway station** **🍽️ 14:10–15:10 – One Elm (pub stop)** **🏠 15:25–16:00 – Shakespeare’s Birthplace** **🌿 16:15–17:15 – River Avon** **🎭 17:20–18:15 – Royal Shakespeare Theatre** **🚆 ~18:45+ – Return to London** **Our tickets are off peak so we are flexible with the return 😌** **RSVP, and if you have any questions, write me a direct message.** **See you soon,** **Lumi**

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.

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)