Sailing

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 an evening of sophistication and charm at the illustrious Mandarin Oriental, five star hotel’s opulent bar, The Aubrey. This distinguished event has been thoughtfully curated for discerning singles like yourself – professionals who seek to mingle and connect with like-minded souls in an atmosphere of refinement. **[Tickets Available here](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cocktails-conversation-at-the-mandarin-oriental-knightsbridge-tickets-1983262189597?aff=oddtdtcreator)** 🗣️ Engaging Conversations: Prepare to be captivated by the allure of meaningful conversation. Engage with other eligible professionals, each embodying the essence of sophistication and grace. As the night unfolds, forge connections that transcend the ordinary, and embrace authentic encounters with London’s most eligible. 🎵 Melodies of the Night: From 9pm the DJ will set the stage for an unforgettable night of music and celebration. Let the melodies serenade your soul as you bask in the company of kindred spirits. **Schedule Of Events** Arrival Time: 8:00 PM onwards Welcome Drink Till 9pm Introductions and mingling till 10pm DJ & Dancing till 12am Dress Code: Cocktail Chic – Unleash your most sophisticated attire, embracing the allure of classic elegance. 🎫 Secure Your Place: This exclusive soirée has limited availability, so reserve your spot now to partake in an evening of mingling, connection, and delight. In the realm of The Aubrey, where style meets soul, join us for an extraordinary celebration of elegance and meaningful connections. Prepare to be captivated by the allure of The Aubrey’s five-star ambience, the taste of impeccable cocktails, and the enchantment of the night. **[Tickets Available here](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cocktails-conversation-at-the-mandarin-oriental-knightsbridge-tickets-1983262189597?aff=oddtdtcreator)**

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**.

Join an intimate and stylish evening at **The Aubrey**, the opulent Japanese izakaya at the **Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park**. This exclusive dining experience brings together **20 guests** for a night of **great food, engaging conversation, and new connections** in one of London’s most luxurious settings. [You must pay for your ticket to join here](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1983261299936?aff=oddtdtcreator) Indulge in a **curated Japanese menu**, starting with an arrival cocktail, followed by a selection of exquisite dishes designed for sharing. Whether you're a foodie, a social butterfly, or simply looking to meet like-minded people in a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, this is the perfect setting to connect over an unforgettable dining experience. **The Menu – £49 per person** 🍸 **Arrival Cocktail** *(1 per guest)* 🥢 **Starters to Share** * Peppers * Spicy fried cauliflower 🍣 **Second Course to Share** * Avocado Maki Roll * Salmon & Hamachi Maki Roll 🔥 **Main Course (Choose One)** * Duck Teryiaki * Salmon * Mushroom Rice 🍰 **Dessert to Share** After dinner, the night continues! Guests are invited to **join our exclusive mixer at the bar**, where you'll have the chance to **mingle with 60 Cocktails & Conversation guests** and keep the conversations flowing **till late**. This **elegant, social dining experience** is designed for those who appreciate **good food, great company, and meaningful connections**. Whether you come with friends or solo, our hosts will ensure you feel welcomed and engaged throughout the evening. 🔸 **Limited to 20 guests – your ticket reserves your seat at the table and is non-refundable. Dinner (£49) and any additional drinks will be charged separately by the venue.** [You must pay for your ticket to join here](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1983261299936?aff=oddtdtcreator)

Register now to secure your spot! Register now to secure your spot! To confirm your place, a £130 deposit is required: - £50 guiding & organising fee - £80 accommodation contribution (two nights) I’m currently exploring a selection of local Airbnb stays at the Brecon Beacons and will secure something comfortable, social, and a little bit special once all deposits are collected and group numbers are confirmed. Participants will arrange their own transport tickets, however if the group is fully booked by the RSVP deadline this Friday, I’m happy to coordinate and book group train tickets from London to help secure a better price. An open return from London is approximately £100, plus a small amount of cash for local bus/train travel. Not included: food, refreshments, insurance, personal hiking equipment, or additional personal expenses. Please note this is a professionally organised and guided group experience; however, all participants remain responsible for their own wellbeing, fitness, insurance, and personal arrangements during the trip. Please note that the organiser reserves the right to cancel the trip if minimum participant numbers are not met or due to unforeseen circumstances. In this case, any deposits paid toward accommodation and guiding will be refunded. Once RSVP closes on Friday, you’ll receive the full itinerary, travel plan, and final details. **Small group. Big views. Great company. Let’s celebrate International Women’s Day in the mountains**.

Art Journaling is a fun and simple way to incorporate creativity into everyday life. An art journal is a great place to experiment and try out different approaches to art without the pressure of creating a masterpiece. It is an artistic form of self-expression – instead of using words alone; you will be using various media and different art techniques to express your creativity. In a busy world, largely driven by technology, taking time to be creative can often seem frivolous and indulgent. But studies show that creative activities encourage positivity and significantly improve our wellbeing. Art journaling is an effective way to de-stress and practice self-care. Join us for these drop-in sessions in Art journaling with Sai, an experienced teaching artist, avid art journaler and professional calligrapher. From simple mark making to elaborate mixed media art you will learn a variety of new skills; gain confidence in your artistic ability and develop an amazing creative habit that is both enriching and nourishing. Whether you have five minutes or half an hour to spare, Art journaling will inspire you to be creative, practice self-care and reconnect with yourself. Each week we work with different media and techniques. Sai provides some resources, however please bring an art journal and some basic supplies with you. Contact Sai directly to book bluepaletteartstudio@gmail.com

Ready to get outside? Our Friday morning Nordic Walk in Brockwell Park is back! At this moment we can meet with up to 30 people (of more than two households) to do outdoor exercise and walks. However, i like to keep our exercise groups small, so I have set the maximum participants at 12. For now this walk is for our experienced Nordic Walkers only, who already used to Nordic Walk with us regularly before Covid 19 kept us indoors, and who have their own Nordic Walking poles. As this session is outdoors, we will not ask you to wear a face mask, but we do ask you to keep 2 meters apart. Some of our walkers might be immune compromised or more at risk, so please help us keep everyone safe! Please do not come to the session and stay at home if: - you know you have been in contact - in the last 2 weeks- with someone with symptoms of possible Covid, or if you have been in contact with someone who tested positive. - you have any of the following symptoms: (new) Loss of smell/taste, Persistent cough, Fatigue, Loss of appetite, Skin rash, Hives, Fever, Severe muscle pain, Shortness of breath, Diarrhoea, Delirium, Abdominal pain, Chest pain, Hoarse voice, Eye soreness, Sore or painful throat, Nausea or vomiting, Headache, Dizziness or light headedness We meet by the Blackbird bakery in Herne Hill, between the station and the park. Session Price: £10 per session, £89 for a 10-session card or £70 unlimited sessions per month. Session cards and Pay Monthly can be used in any of our outdoor walks or indoor Zoom classes sessions (except for the Parkinson's sessions). Pay What Works: The price shown above is the “true” value of the session that best reflects the work I put into preparing and leading your session. However, I understand that not everyone can afford to pay full price, and I don’t want that to stop you from joining us. In an effort to find a balance between more financial accessibility and sustainable pricing, I now offer a “Pay What Works” model. This allows for financial flexibility while still valuing and respecting the work and energy I provide in creating and delivering these classes. Then send an email to ailien@fitandhappyoutdoors.com with the heading “INVOICE please”- followed by “FAHO 1” to pay full price as quoted below, “FAHO 2”, for 20% off, or “FAHO 3” for 50% off. Please do tell me if you want to pay for 10 sessions, or if you’d like to pay monthly. I prefer payment by bank transfer, but if that is not possible you could pay in cash. No cheques please, the queues by the banks are just too long. We walk in all safe weather conditions – if a walk is cancelled, we will contact you to let you know. Please check for text messages or Meetup messages before leaving home!

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)

**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

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.**

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.

**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.