Widows and Widowers

Join me on a walk through Bloomsbury and Fitzrovia, the centre of London's intellectual life in the first half of the twentieth century. We'll walk in the footsteps of the Bloomsbury set where a group of immensely talented individuals transformed the way modern society thought about itself. Grouped around two beautiful sisters, Vanessa Bell and Virginia Woolf, some of the greatest names in art, literature, poetry, philosophy and economics met, talked, lived and loved in Bloomsbury. John Maynard Keynes, TS Elliot, Bertrand Russell, Vita Sackville West, Augustus John and lytton Strachey will all make an appearance. 'They lived in squares and loved in triangles'; I will look at where they lived, their tangled love affairs and the impact they made on society. We'll then cross Tottenham Court Road and enter Fitzrovia; a very different area, grittier and more downmarket. We'll walk in the footsteps of George Orwell and Dylan Thomas and I'll show you where Orwell's great novel '1984' was set. We meet in Pret A Manger in High Holborn, a few hundred yards from Holborn tube at 10.30 to start walking at 10.45 We’ll end in a pub a couple of hours later made famous by George Orwell, Augustus John and Dylan Thomas and with a wonderful collection of paintings and photos of and by the Bloomsberries Fee: £12 I have a card reader so you can pay by credit card or Bank transfer to: 08-90-33 07162019 or PayPal to timpotter53@gmail.com or cash on the day We meet at the Pret 125 High Holborn London WC1V 6AN Make sure you go to the right Pret. It’s on the corner of Southampton Place and High Holborn. When you come out of Holborn tube it’s diagonally across High Holborn and kingsway. Phone: O7846 899156

* *Please note: TO OBTAIN THE LINK FOR JOINING OUR MEETINGS, PLEASE MESSAGE ME, CAPRICE JACKSON, THE GROUP ORGANISER. We will send you a few simple questions first, so please allow enough time.* *** **A very big welcome to our friendly Queer and inclusive writing group!** **We meet every week on Monday evenings (UK time) and have been going since 2018.** **Here's the schedule of the group:** 7.30-9.00 Say hi and personal writing time 9.00-9.30 Discussion\* The aim of the group is to provide a shared and safe space for people who regard themselves as part of the Queer community to write together. It is intended for you to work on your own writing, whatever form that takes. You can drop in and drop out as you wish. \* The discussion is open and can take different directions. Typically, it focuses on writing: sharing of work, asking and answering questions, and so on. Taking part is optional. Very best wishes, Caprice PHOTO: *Snow in Scotland; taken by a friend.*

NOTE: the pub does not charge for our space on the understanding that we all purchase something from the bar. Please support them. I'll be there from around 7pm if anyone would like a social chat before we get started. It’s a New Year! A time when many people reflect on their lives and make resolutions to change aspects of their behaviour. But what underlies the resolutions we choose? This month’s discussion is an opportunity to consider the principles that are deeply important to us and how they affect our lives. In addition to thinking about which values we hold, we can ask questions like: * Why do we hold the values we do? * Where do our values come from? * Which values take precedence over others? Why? * How much do values, (and their relative importance), differ from one person to another? From one society to another? From one era to another? * How do we cope with differences between value systems? Values cover many different aspects of our lives. Examples include: * Morality: honesty, integrity, justice … * Social relationships: family, love, loyalty… * Personal growth: knowledge, creativity, perseverance… * Security & Lifestyle: financial security, health/wellness, work-life balance… * Freedoms: autonomy, independence, adventure… It’s a big area with lots of different aspects to explore. Exactly what we end up discussing will depend on the interests of the attendees. Guaranteed to be interesting whichever way it goes. Hope to see you there.

Every Monday since 2009 between 15 - 40 men have come into this oasis of calm in the heart of London to meditate, relax and make new friends. * We're a diverse and constantly evolving group with a broad age range and many nationalities. * There's a great balance between long-time regulars and new faces. * No prior meditation experience is necessary as full instructions are provided. * Experienced meditators are also welcome if you are looking for a group to meditate with. * We sit on chairs but if you prefer to sit on the floor there are mats and cushions available. **What You’ll Learn** * **Breathwork** for stress reduction * **Gratitude practices** to enhance your enjoyment of life * **Mindfulness tools** for focus and clarity * **Meditations** that boost emotional intelligence * **Self-care practices** to cultivate kindness in areas where you struggle * **Compassion techniques** for processing difficult emotions * **Resilience-building** to overcome challenges and adapt to change * **Social skills development** through interaction with fellow participants **Meeting Details** * **When:** Every Monday (the event proceeds regardless of RSVPs) * **Where:** 52 Saint Martins Lane, London, WC2N 4EA (near Leicester Square or Charing Cross Tube Station) * **Time:** Doors open at 6:45 PM; meditation starts at 7 PM and concludes at 9 PM. [CLICK HERE TO BOOK](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds) \- or buy on the door **About the evening** The evening is a combination of meditation, inner exploration and relaxation done in connection with others. * We start with a grounding practice and some movement to release tension from your body, followed by a guided meditation to calm your mind. * Mid evening there's a 20 minute refreshment break, giving time to chat with others at the class. * The second half explores a different theme each week which leads into a second guided meditation. * The room is heated and warm. [CLICK HERE TO BOOK](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds) \- or buy on the door **About the Teacher** The sessions are led by Nick, who has over 30 years of meditation experience and lived for 7 years as a Buddhist monk. Central to this monastic training was the principle that our freedom lies in our ability to choose our response to life rather than react to external situations. **Fees** * **First-Time Attendees:** £10 (for newcomers or those returning after a year) * **Standard Rate:** £16 per session (book online or pay at the door) * **[Silver Membership](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds/memberships):** £55 for 4 sessions within 3 months (average cost: £13.75/session) * **[Gold Membership](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds/memberships):** £95 for 8 sessions within 3 months (average cost: £11.87/session) Additional sessions within the 3-month period are also discounted. Memberships are auto-renewed unless canceled. **Concessions for students, retired on a low pension, low income, Universal Credit, refugees and disability support** Concession rates are available for those needing financial support and are available at the door only. If you think you might qualify, just speak to us when you arrive. [CLICK HERE TO BOOK](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds) \- or buy on the door **Member Testimonials:** *"The connection I found at the London Gay, Bi, Trans Men's Mindfulness Meditation Group has been truly transformative. Not only have I learned valuable skills for managing stress, but I’ve also formed meaningful friendships that support my overall well-being. I highly recommend this group to anyone looking for a welcoming and inclusive space."* — **A** *"Meditation has freed me from negative thoughts through increased self-awareness. Nick is an inspiring teacher who has helped me find happiness within myself."* — **Daniele** *"These thoughtful sessions have been invaluable in helping me focus and unwind. Nick has created a friendly space to sort one’s thoughts."* — **Neil** [CLICK HERE TO BOOK](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds) \- or buy on the door

**PLEASE VISIT THE WEBSITE TO CONFIRM SESSION DETAILS AND LET US KNOW YOU PLAN TO ATTEND. THIS IS MANDATORY.** **Want to do something useful with your exercise? GoodGym is no ordinary gym. We're a group of people who get fit by doing good - helping out local charities and community groups with physical jobs like shifting compost and planting trees.** **📍 We meet at** **Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, London, SW11 5TN** **at 6:30pm.** **🏃‍♂️ At 6:45pm we'll run, walk or cycle to do a 30-40 minute task.** **🏃‍♂️ Then we'll head back to where we started by 8:30pm, do some stretches and maybe grab a beverage?** It's FREE. It's fun. It's fulfilling. And we're a very friendly bunch. 🍇 — **BOOK ONTO THE SESSION** **To come to the session click here:** https://www.goodgym.org/v3/sessions **You will need to confirm your attendance on the GoodGym website** (this includes creating an account with us if you haven’t already - it only takes a few mins). The link above takes you to the session listings in your area - if this session doesn’t fit your schedule, you may find something that does so check it out. p.s. GoodGym is a charity and you will be asked whether you’d like to donate when first creating an account. The choice is yours and does not affect your ability to attend a session. — **FAQ** Not sure you'll keep up? GoodGym is for everyone (18+). Whether you've never run before, or are chasing a marathon PB, you are 100% welcome. We always have a back-marker so no one gets left behind. 70% of GoodGym members start as non-runners so if you're new to this kind of thing you will be supported by people who are all on the same journey. 👍 What do I need to wear? Most of us wear gym/running gear. Make sure you're prepared for the weather. Don't feel like you're fit enough? Our tasks are simple and fun. There are easy jobs as well as more challenging things for those who want a workout! The choice is always yours. Do I need to bring anything? Gardening gloves are really useful for a lot of GoodGym tasks. And a head torch too if it’s likely to get dark. Please bring some if you can but there’s no requirement 🧤💡🧤 What is GoodGym? We're a (really lovely) group of people who use our energy to make a difference in our local community (and in communities across the UK!). We often meet on a weeknight, at least once a week, for a session to do good and get fit. We'd love you to come and join us. Any questions, just pop a comment below or send me a message. Find out everything you need to know at goodgym.org

London's Friendly Book Club's pick for January is **Our Evenings** by **Alan Hollinghurst**. Dave Win is thirteen years old when he first goes to stay with the Hadlows, the sponsors of his scholarship at a local boarding school where their son Giles is his contemporary. For Dave this weekend, with its games and challenges and surprising encounters, will open up heady new possibilities, even as it exposes him to Giles’s envy and violence. As *Our Evenings* unfolds over half a century, the two boys’ careers will diverge dramatically, Dave a gifted actor struggling with convention and discrimination, Giles an increasingly powerful and dangerous politician. *Our Evenings* is Dave Win’s own account of his life as a schoolboy and student, his first love affairs, in London, and on the road with an experimental theatre company, and of a late-life affair, which transforms his sixties with a new sense of happiness and a perilous security; but it is also, very movingly, the story of his hard-working widowed mother, whose own life takes an unexpected new turn after her son leaves home. Both dark and luminous, poignant and wickedly funny, Alan Hollinghurst’s new novel gives us a portrait of modern England through the lens of one man’s acutely observed and often unnerving experience. It is a story of race and class, theatre and sexuality, love and the cruel shock of violence, from the finest writer of our age. Please only RSVP if you think you'll be able to make this event. **We host three sessions per book, you only need to attend one.** Everyone is welcome! Grab your copy and join us for a relaxed and engaging discussion.

Join the Prime Time Over 50s Social Group for a chilled out evening Following the success of our previous events, like the lively gathering at Oxford Circus, we would like to invite you to an evening that is perfect for mingling with like-minded individuals and making new friends and social connections. As you are aware this is a wetherspoons, so prices will be very reasonable

🌸 Aikido — Free Trial for Beginners! 🌸 Aikido is a traditional Japanese martial art that focuses on harmony rather than force. It’s suitable for all ages, genders, and fitness levels, and anyone can start at their own pace. ✨ First class FREE! Perfect for beginners — we teach the basics step by step. Aikido helps improve posture, relieve stress, and develop effective self-defence skills. 🔹 Monthly fee: £30 🔹 Open to: beginners, students, working adults, and women 🔹 Training includes: body movement, breathing, throws, and safe falls 🔹 What to bring: comfortable clothes — no uniform needed for your first class Discover yourself and improve your balance, confidence, and calm through Aikido. Come and join us — visitors and trial lessons are always welcome!

Welcome to this incredible meetup at one of London's most historic and charming pubs near Oxford Circus! We are excited to invite you to join us at The Cock Tavern, on Saturday at 3 PM. This Free event, tailored for the over 50s, offers a perfect opportunity to connect and celebrate in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. #### Details at a Glance: * **Date:** On Saturday. * **Time:** 3 PM onwards * **Venue:** The Cock Tavern, 27 Great Portland Street, London W1W 8QE * **Nearest Station:** Oxford Circus #### **Convenient Location:** Located in the very heart of London, The Cock Tavern is just a short walk from Oxford Circus station. Its prime location makes it easily accessible, whether you're coming from home, a day out in the city, or a relaxing afternoon. **Engaging for the Over 50s:** This meetup is designed to be inclusive and welcoming for *members of our group*, particularly those over 50. Whether you're looking to make new friends, share stories, or simply enjoy the company of others in your age group, this event promises a comfortable and engaging environment. Although it may start quietly, it can become very busy as the afternoon progresses **Exciting Opportunity for Fun and Connection:** Join us for a delightful afternoon of meeting new people and engaging in fun conversations. Whether you’re a long-time member or new to our events, you’ll find a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for making connections and enjoying great company. We can't wait to see you there! **[Prime Time Group](https://www.primetimebase.com) \| [FAQ](https://www.primetimebase.com/bulletin/category/faq/)**

Join us for our January book club on: One dark window- Rachel Gillig Just read as much as you can and then all you have to bring is yourself I will comment below what ill be wearing closer to the time so you can identify the group The group is very relaxed so don’t worry about joining! We tend to talk about the book and also venture off onto other topics Please do message with any questions ☺️ 💕

BOOK YOUR TICKET 👉🏼 [HERE](https://itsadate.club/event/christian-speed-dating-3/). Single, Christian, and 30–45? Perfect! Join us for 15 fun, fast-paced dates with like-minded Christians looking for genuine connections. Located on Gresham Street, just a 3-minute walk from Bank Station, The Anthologist is a contemporary bar featuring a cosy private seating area—perfect for meeting new people who share your Christian faith. Enjoy a warm welcome from our personable host, a comfortable and relaxed setting, and introductions to 30 other single guests—all looking to form meaningful connections in a fun and natural way. Our host will be at the venue ready to welcome you at 19:30. Please arrive on time for registration, to grab any drinks from the bar, and receive a summary of how things will work. You will be given an optional name sticker, a pen, and note card to keep track of everyone you’ve met. Ladies will be seated on tables adequately spaced, discreetly numbered, and arranged in a comfortable area of the venue. When speed dating commences, gents will join ladies for 5-minute dates to get to know one another. Your host will notify all guests at the end of each date, signalling for gents to move to the next table in ascending numerical order. During table rotations you will have a moment to record on note cards your feelings towards the previous date and intention to reconnect, for your reference only. Mid-way through the evening, your host will indicate a 15-minute comfort break to use the rest room, head to the bar, or socialise with new connections. Dating will then resume for the second half of the evening. At the end of the speed dating the bar will remain open for more socialising. You can then access the event listing in your dashboard to enter feedback on dates and await your matches. If you have any questions on the event or how things will work, please get in contact with James on 07517 065 492 or [james@itsadate.club](mailto:james@itsadate.club).

Title: Talk/listen about life-changing loss and grief, and care-giving challenges We have created “LET'S TALK - Leesburg” and you are invited to attend. Folks meet to give and receive support dealing with caregiving or life-changing events. This activity is for any one that is experiencing powerful life changes such as loss of independence, caregiving challenges, any loss that has been a life-changing blow to them or has significantly changed their life, including the loss of a precious person. Participants who attend the “LET'S TALK” group say that the group is a place to: Feel safe, to talk or to listen, gain understanding of experiences, and foster confidence! Realize that: “I Can do …” , “Get my equilibrium back.” “LET”S TALK” invites participants to come together...so that they might share the feelings, thoughts, questions, challenges and concerns. This activity is facilitated by a professional counselor.