Wild Birds

An in person writing group for writers of the weird, the wild, the dark and the dismissed. With a focus on Feminist and Queer stories, and a commitment to the chaos and joy of the writing life, we invite you to join us to work on your own projects. We will meet for two hours, on the second Saturday morning of each month. We will begin with a 15 minute catch up, followed by 45 minutes quiet writing, then a 15 minute break/chat, followed by a final 45 minutes of feedback on each other’s work if wanted, or further writing. Come join us, we’d love to have you!

Start your weekend by watching the sunrise from one of London's best viewpoints. Meet fellow early birds. Get a big dose of nature: wild sky, abundant green space, and occasional wildlife. And then warm up in a nearby cafe. Conversations fuelled by early morning light and coffee tend to be good ones. On Saturday 14th February, we will: * Meet from: 7:00AM at the top of Primrose Hill * **Sunrise at: 7:16AM** * Take in the view for a little while * Walk to a nearby cafe (Roots on Regent's Park Road) * Warm up with coffee (with 10% off) Become part of our community of regulars, or just drop by for a one off experience. We meet frequently - sometimes weekly, sometimes fortnightly - to create and sustain community. New people are always welcome :-) **[WHATSAPP GROUP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/C2KwIp79riz1A71dNF6pgF)** to keep up to date **[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/thesunriseclubetc)** to see what these meetups look like **[SUBSTACK](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/)** for the newsletter and occasional extras **[WEBSITE](www.alltogether.one)** for all other groups We are easy to find because we will be at the top of the hill with a big flag that says 'THE SUNRISE CLUB'. These are free meetups, but if you’d like to make a donation in support of my mission - to get people together, to create connections, and have fun - you can donate here: '[buy me a coffee](https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bonnyastor)' ❤️ \*\*You can also join us on [TRIBE](https://tribeirl.com/the-sunrise-club)\*\*

They say that pictures speak a thousand words, and so here are pics from this previous day trip on our website (click on this event): [www.aaahiking.co.uk/day-hikes](www.aaahiking.co.uk/day-hikes) **DESCRIPTION** Join us for a countryside stroll along the ghost of the Central Line! With lots to see along the way including wild deer and pigs. Starting from Epping station, we’ll follow a scenic trail near the disused rail line through fields, woods, and heritage stations, past the worlds oldest wooden church where we can enter and have a look (845AD) finishing in Ongar (where the central line used to go to) After lunch, the heritage steam/diesel train back to North Weald then herritage bus 339 on the last leg to Epping underground station. This is 17km route so you’ll be back in time to freshen up for your night out. **WHAT TO EXPECT - HIKING INFO** Distance: \**17km* route Estimated Duration (approx): **4 hours walking** Difficulty: \**[moderate](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/hike-grade)* **PROGRAMME** 09:00: Start from Epping Underground Station 11:00: Pass North Weald station, near the airfield. 11:10: Some wild deer have been spotted here. 11:45: Pass the ugliest and friendliest pig in the world. 12:00: Pass Blake Hall station (now a mansion, yes someone lives there with a central line platform in there back garden) 12:45: Worlds oldest wooden church where we can enter and have a look (845AD) 13:15–13:30 Arrive in Ongar for lunch at local pub. 15:00 The heritage steam train back to North Weald (via the mansion that has a non-used central line platform in back garden.) Then herritage bus 339 on the last leg back to Epping underground station (both included in price) 15:45 ish depending on steam train schedule, arrive back at Epping Central line station. **COST** The cost is **£30 per person.** includes hike and heritage steam/diesel train and bus. **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 * 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

Long exposure photography is a genre in photography that is associated with fine art photography due to the surreal and other worldly effects long exposure photography can bring. Filters give you the ability to smooth water, blur clouds and make moving objects turn ghost-like or disappear. **WHAT YOU WILL LEARN** * Master creating the visual effects using ND filters * Camera settings for water/cloud movement * How to expose, focus and compose your image * Best practise for long exposure photography * Filter types - what they do - how and when to use them * Post processing hints & tips **Kase Filters** Today we'll be providing the amazingly quick and compact Kase Magnetic filters. If you are interested in buying and would like a 10% discount: Website: [www.kasefilters.com](http://www.kasefilters.com/) Discount code: **10kaalex** **REQUIRED EQUIPMENT** * A tripod * Shutter release * Lens: 18-55mm, 24-70mm or similar * A wide lens if you have one **EXPERIENCE** Beginners and refreshers knowledge of how to change: * To Bulb or Time mode * ISO, Aperture & Shutter speed * Manual focus on lens * Help will be provided where needed **OTHER ESSENTIALS** * Check the weather and wear appropriate outerwear * A fun and experimental attitude! **TRAVEL** * Check the TFL website for interruptions that might delay your journey **CONTACT** * Alex 07956 264049 UPCOMING EVENTS https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/calendar

Come with me on an enjoyable 8 mile walk starting at Crayford Rail Station and ending up the Falcon Pub which is opposite Falconwood Rail Station [ Trains go from here to London Bridge, Waterloo East, Charing Cross and Victoria Stations}. We will meet at Crayford Station at 10.45 am, and at 11.00 am walk to Hall Place Bexley for a hot drink. Our walk will take us through Green Spaces, Parkland & Woodland as we follow the River Shuttle {as image above} one of London's lesser known rivers and see the wild life there, and we will walk part of the Green Chain. Lunch will be at the Banana Garden, or you can bring your own. {The Banana Garden is Sidcup's original quirky coffee shop. who sell locally roasted coffee, teas and handmade cakes, paninis, soup and lunches & afternoon Tea.} and is well worth a visit. If you have a knee problem or walk slow this walk is definitely not for you, as part of this walk goes up a lot of steep steps, where when you get to the top the views are worth seeing. There will be a £7 meetup fee for this walk payable on arrival. {please try to have the right change} If you need any more info, please phone or text me on 07530 675739. {this is not a smart phone} or email paulc200850@yahoo.co.uk

**Sunday 15 February** Valentine’s Day is over… whether you loved it, hated it, or successfully ignored it 😄 So come and **walk it off** with us. This is a **free Sunday walk** focused on **movement, fresh air, and good company** — no romance required, no awkward hand-holding, and absolutely no pressure to discuss your love life. ### 🥾 The Walk * **Meeting Point:** Outside Finsbury Park Station (main exit - station place (East side)) at 10:15am (walk starts at 10:30 sharp) and finish by 2pm. * **Distance:** Approx. 12–15 km * **Pace & Difficulty:** Steady and purposeful with some elevation of approx., 250m. * **Terrain:** Well-maintained paths, suitable for winter * **Breaks:** Brief catch-up stops only * This is a **pre-lunch walk**, and we’ll aim to **finish before 2:00 pm**, so please be comfortable maintaining the pace. **About the walk** \- This route is a **varied and scenic North London loop**, with a mix of **urban green corridors, woodland paths, and elevated viewpoints**. A steady climb rewarded with some of the best panoramic views over London, and peaceful woodland stretches of Highgate Wood. ### ❤️ **Why join?** * Walk off the Valentine’s chocolate, cake, wine… or all three 🍫🍷, or * Clear your head of bad cards, bad dates, or bad TV * Walk with like-minded people who chose fresh air over brunch * Be done, dusted, and virtuous before 2 pm ### ⚠️ Important * Please arrive **on time** * Stay within sight of the group * This walk suits those happy with **continuous walking at a decent pace** Whether you’re **single, coupled, complicated, or gloriously unbothered** — you’re welcome. *** ### **After-Walk** We’ll finish near **Finsbury Park** **Station** at **Finsbury Park** with packed picnic style lunch and then go to pub nearby for a warm drink/pint and/or to unwind. *** ### ⚠️ Important Notes * Please stay with or behind the hike leader. This helps to manage group pace and cohesion. * Participation is free, but you are responsible for your own safety and well-being. No risk/liability is inferred or accepted by the organiser. * Please be mindful of others, respect the countryside, and keep the group spirit positive. * Read the **About Us** section before joining: 👉 [About Us](https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities/) 📲 **Contact:** If you’re running late, lost, or need to reach me on the day, message/WhatsApp me at **07830 374 629**.

**\-\-\- ALL TICKETS ARE SOLD \-\-\-** Participation in group travel is optional. You may attend the hike using your own transport. The hike itself is free of charge. **Note:** Anyone who has signed up but hasn’t paid will be removed from the event as we get closer to purchasing tickets, to allow others who are ready to pay to take their place. **£13 payments must be sent to the organiser by noon Tuesday 10 Feb** **GROUPS CONFIRMED - TICKET PURCHASED:** 01 AdrianB - Paid 02 Esra - Paid 03 Eve - Paid 04 snehamuthuvel - Paid \-\-\- 05 Adam B - Paid 06 Emily B - Paid 07 Stavros - Paid 08 Angela - Paid \-\-\- 09 Zyerak - Paid 10 Ana N - Paid 11 Ranji - Paid 12 Sophie - Paid \-\-\- **🥾 EVENT:** Seven Sisters Grand Coastal [**[LINK](https://www.meetup.com/freehiketogether/events/312946951/)**] **📅 DATE:** 15 Feb 2026 **📍 LONDON MEETING POINT - GROUP TRAVEL** The event host **[AdrianB](https://www.meetup.com/members/287692462/)** will be at the meeting point as a focal point for group travel. 08:30 - Meet at **[London Bridge](https://w3w.co/cubes.flags.famed)** station main ticket office 08:35 - Leave the meeting point and proceed to the platform 08:49 - Train departs London Bridge 09:52 - Arrive at Lewes and change trains, walk to Platform 2 10:08 - Board the train from Lewes to Seaford 10:27 - Arrive in **[Seaford](https://w3w.co/microfilm.boxing.curiosity)** ❗ **IMPORTANT:** Please ensure you are at the meeting point on time. If you are not there when we leave to board the train, we will go through the barrier without you. **✅ THIS OFFER APPLIES TO YOU IF** * You want to pay a £13 total travel cost for the entire day * You are happy to travel in groups of four people * You understand that individual tickets cannot be issued * You will be travelling from **London Bridge** to **Seaford** and back to **London Bridge** from **Eastbourne** **⚙️ HOW IT WORKS** You can pay the organiser £13 in advance. The organiser will purchase group tickets only once a full group of four people has been confirmed. If a group of four is not confirmed, your payment will be fully refunded, and you will need to arrange your own travel. **💳 PAYMENT** Closed 📱 **WhatsApp:** AdrianB: +44 (0) 7438 812 663 **🔁 REFUNDS** If a group of four is not confirmed, your payment will be fully refunded, and you will need to arrange your own travel. After tickets have been pre-purchased from National Rail, a refund is not possible. **❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS** **Q: What if I want to travel on my own?** A: You cannot. This arrangement requires all participants to travel in groups of four. **Q: What if I want to leave the group and travel on my own later?** A: You cannot. You must remain with your group of four for the entire journey. **Q: Will the organiser give me an individual ticket?** A: No. The ticket issued is a group ticket and is valid only for four people travelling together. **Q: Will the organiser give a group of four people a ticket?** A: Yes. A group ticket will be provided as long as all four people stay together and travel together. **Q: Who holds the group tickets, and how do we get through the barriers?** A: The organiser will hold and present the tickets to the train guard. We will go through the barriers together as one group. 📝 **NOTE:** If you with to arrange your own group travel you can buy the tickets from **[HERE](https://ticket.southernrailway.com/daysave/2026-02-15/VIC/4/)**

Hike via Reigate Town, Castle, Health and Priory Park. Reigate Castle was likely founded shortly after 1088, originally a timber motte-and-bailey, it was fortified with stone in the 12th/13th century. By 1441, it was described as ruined ... 🟡 **HIKE:** 📏 15km (9.3 miles) 💓 Pace: 5 km/h 🏔️ Elev. Gain: 280m 🚥 [View Walking/Hiking Levels Here](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPRjEOPjW8B/) *[some road paths/walking required]* ✊ *Note: Active Muslims is equally about focusing on the actual activity, in this case, it is a paced walk/hike (and not a stroll), therefore it is advised to approach and attend these events with that mindset, intention and [purpose](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBhPWpdIMKq/?igsh=MWVjdnZrdGZwd3dmYw%3D%3D).* 📍 **London Bridge Station** (opposite platfom 12/13) 🎫 London to **Reigate Station** is covered by **Contactless Card -** *it may be cheaper to use contactless all the way from your home station.* 🚉 Taking the **9:42am** from **London Bridge** \[1 change at Redhill \| Arrives 10:18am at Reigate \| Return estimate: 3:00pm train to **London Blackfriar**] 🔄 Start/End: **Reigate Station** 🚻 Departing Station / On-board train / Destination Station 🧎 Prayer: If you are praying, please have/keep wudu (make it within other breaks) and be prepared to join at short notice. 🎒 What to bring: appropriate clothing/shoes, packed lunch, water bottle (1.5-2L) & snacks to keep you going. 👕 Advisable to have layers. 🥾 Hiking boots recommended. 🧦 Hiking socks/double socks advised (reduces chance of blisters) 🔦 Headlight (winter) 📱 Fully charged mobile + portable charger 🔔 Emergency Whistle 🗂️ "No shows" for previous events may be moved to the waitlist to prioritise reliable attendees / new joiners - ***when there is a waiting list, priority is given by attendance records / new joiners.*** 📊 [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)] ⛑️ *Disclaimer: You are solely responsible for your own safety on these events and have the fitness level required for it. That you do not require special attention, medication or additional care. You are also responsible for your belonging at all times.* 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims)** *(Follow for latest events updates)* 🚦 **[Walk/Hike Levels:](https://www.instagram.com/share/reel/BBxV4zomeZ)** 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging

GREAT WALK ON THAMESPATH and DOCKLANDS. STRENGTHEN NEW FRIENDSHIPS IN A PUB SOCIAL AFTER THE WALK. THAMESPATH, DOCKLANDS and MUDCHUTE FARM ANIMALS. **WALK START POINT: Canary Wharf Station**\- ELIZABETH LINE and JUBILEE LINE\. Look for Ken with the Kens Events/Meetup Flag/Badge outside the Jubilee Line Station exit in Reuters Plaza \(near the International Clocks\)\. WALK ROUTE: Thamespath, Docklands, Mudchute Farm - in effect a circular walk around Canary Wharf. WALK DISTANCE: Approx 5 miles. WALK END POINT: Canary Wharf Station- ELIZABETH LINE and JUBILEE LINE WALK STOP OUT POINT: Nearby London Bus Routes available for most of the walk BREATHE FRESH AIR: Give up the city streets for a day and improve your overall fitness levels on a green walk. Explore and enjoy London's abundant and sometimes secret green spaces, forest areas and surprising surrounding countryside. Meet new people and make some new friends. Walking is a great social activity. Visit parts of London, unknown to most people, that you would not otherwise have a reason to see. **Social Event**: Our walks are social walks, where the emphasis is on meeting new people, enjoying nature, healthy exercise, and fresh air. Our walks are not interrupted with running commentaries or historical lectures, although occasionally features of significance may be pointed out. As such our walks will be continuous with few stops and it is your responsibilty to keep walkers ahead in view and to follow the direction of the walk. We always end the walk at a pub with a convivial atmosphere where the socialising can continue. *Be sure to join us in the pub for the whole experience!* **Scroll down to see Disclaimer and Notice of Risks.** **COST of EVENT**: **All of the walks on this group are only £5 each to attend. Payment is not collected before the day of the event to allow you maximum flexibility. Why pay more on other groups for overpriced walks with no afterwalk socialising!!** **The walk is free for holders of the Ken's Events Membership Card.** WANT TO COME ON ANOTHER WALK? For a list of future walks go to[ http://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/) Please post no pre-event messages unless you are posting something relevant for the whole group and only post photos of other members with their consent. Kens Events also has a Facebook Page, Instagram and Twitter accounts. [http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) Instagram Page [Kenswalks](https://www.instagram.com/weekendgreenwalks/) Twitter [@KenEvents](http://www.twitter.com/KenEvents) Kens Events also has a Facebook Group that you can join. [http://www.facebook.com/groups/Kensevents](http://www.facebook.com/groups/kensevents) RAIN POLICY: Light rain is not usually a problem . However if torrentail rain is forecast, please check back to this webpage on the day of the event around 3 hours before the start for the latest update. Unfortunately no large dogs and small children are permitted on these walks. **NOTICE of RISKS applicable for all walks:** Please dress appropriately for weather and terrain conditions. Only wear good sturdy shoes, with ankle support, and carry a bottle of water and necessary medication. You need to be moderately fit for this walk and able to walk for at least 8 miles. This walk is suitable for the average experienced hill walker. Expect some hills. Do not attend this walk if you do not fit that description or if you have a medical condition (especially heart and/or lung conditions) that may impact upon your capability of completing the walk. These walks are city walks and countryside walks where all the usual risks of injury during such walks apply resulting from interactions with road traffic, joggers, cyclists, e-scooters,other members of the public, animals (farm, domestic and wild), plants (allergic reactions), uneven surfaces, including portruding tree roots and potholes and there may be low overhanging branches. In these walks we cross busy roads, use towpaths alongside water, bridlepaths, country lanes and sometimes ill defined paths and tracks through woodland, bush and countryside. Some tracks may be muddy and slippery, and conditions may be wet and icy. The walk leader is not and does not purport to be a professional guide, or a medical professional, but is instead a like minded individual who also enjoys hill walking and who is familiar with the intended route. Do not attend this walk unless you accept and consent to the above risks. If you require insurance for these walks then you must arrange this yourself. **DISCAIMER** All Ken's Events are subject to a disclaimer. Please click here [https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/](https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/) to find out more about Kens Events/Walks and click on 'read more' to see full disclaimer.

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 13 miles (21km) • Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 340m • Hiking time: 5.5 to 6.5 hours • Cost: £31 (includes guided hike + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet breaks: On the train, at the lunch stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: IMPORTANT - London Bridge station has several levels, please check the map below before you leave home and also arrive at least 10 minutes early to get to the meeting point. London Bridge station. Meet upstairs (top floor - so go up the escalators) between WHSmith (no 15) and M&S (no 16) - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LondonBridge.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:25am, leave 8:45am for the 9am train • Return: 7:13pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Visit the dramatic **Harrison’s Rocks**, formed 135 million years ago and shaped by the last Ice Age • Explore **two counties in one day** — Kent and Sussex • Pass the historic **Groombridge Place Manor**, dating back to the 1200s • See Harrison’s Rocks, a designated **Site of Special Scientific Interest** • Walk through **Broadwater Forest**, home to rare plants and abundant wildlife • Finish in the idyllic **village of Eridge**, on the Sussex–Kent border 🥾 **Hike Description** Our hike begins in the quiet village of **Ashurst**, where we set out along shady woodland trails into the heart of Kent. This early stretch of the hike offers peaceful countryside and a feeling of remoteness, with winding paths through lush greenery and rolling fields. Along the way we pass the moated **Groombridge Place Manor**, whose 700-year-old history includes design work by Sir Christopher Wren, famed for his reconstruction of St Paul’s Cathedral after the Great Fire of London. The highlight of the day is reaching **Harrison’s Rocks**, a striking series of sandstone outcrops dating back around 135 million years. Their dramatic shapes were sculpted by the last Ice Age, and today they are a favourite with climbers whose skillful ascents we often stop to watch. Walking beneath the crags in their woodland setting is an impressive experience and a reminder of the area’s deep geological past. From here, the trail continues across the county border into **Sussex**, offering far-reaching views of the surrounding hills and countryside. We walk through **Broadwater Forest**, a landscape of bright woodlands and rare wildlife, before descending towards our final destination. We finish in the idyllic village of **Eridge**, nestled on the northern edge of East Sussex beside the Kent border. With its charming setting and sense of seclusion, it makes for a fitting conclusion to a day exploring the best of two counties, from ancient manors to Ice Age rock formations. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [GRAHAM](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07796 098487 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

**Dover → Folkestone via Samphire Hoe** **The Plan:** * **Distance:** 9 miles * **Duration:** about 3.5 hrs * **Elevation:** +650 ft / –775 ft **Difficulty:** *Moderate*\- some cliff and hill\, yet rewarding\. Expect rolling paths\, dramatic cliffside views\, and just enough ups and downs to keep things interesting\. **Highlights Along the Way** 🔹 Shakespeare Cliff - A sweeping cliff face named after the Bard himself, offering a jaw-dropping first glimpse of the coastline’s grandeur. 🔹 Samphire Hoe - A stunning nature reserve born from the earth dug out of the Channel Tunnel. Here, wildflowers bloom against chalky cliffs, seabirds soar overhead, and the wind carries the salt and freedom of the open sea. 🔹 Abbot’s Cliff Sound Mirror - A fascinating relic from 1928, this huge concrete dish once listened for enemy aircraft long before radar existed. Stand here and let history surround you. 🔹 Sweeping Cliff-Edge Views - The path hugs the edge of the cliffs, where turquoise waters crash against chalky walls below — a perfect spot for epic photos and quiet moments alike. **Reward Yourself in Folkestone:** After nearly 9 miles of pure coastal magic, Folkestone greets you with open arms. Settle into a seaside restaurant, order something hearty, and watch the sun melt into the horizon. The ocean sparkles, the air buzzes with the hum of the harbour, and you’ve earned every single bite. **\[Check out our last trip on HERE\]\(Check out our last trip video HERE\)** **A few things to know before you book:** * **Tickets:** Non-refundable, but if you can’t make it, you’re welcome to pass your spot on to someone else. A full refund will be issued if the hike is cancelled by the organiser. * **Getting there:** Trains to Dover are usually around £28 return when booked in advance, or £23 Super Off-Peak with a Network Railcard. * **Meeting points:** Two options — travel together from London, or meet us directly at Dover train station if you’re coming from elsewhere. * **Weather:** The hike goes ahead rain or shine, so bring layers and be ready for all conditions. * **The route:** We’ll be walking along coastal paths near the cliffs. The scenery is incredible, but some sections are exposed — sturdy footwear is a must, and please follow the guide’s instructions throughout. **Not included:** * Food & Refreshments * Transport (network railcard is recommended or group ticket bought on the day) * Anything else not listed above **⚠️ Health & Safety ⚠️** • Participants take part at their own risk. • The guide (professional event organiser ) is not responsible for personal injury, loss, or accidents. • Please ensure you are fit enough for the hike and follow safety instructions on the trail.

Join us for our next meetup in Canary Wharf! Bring your any camera (digital, analog, phone or video), and let’s see what we can capture! **Stay connected** Join our WhatsApp Group, that is the only way to get updates and live location on the day of the event: ([https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ek2mMMZioqu19CJJPoQal4](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ek2mMMZioqu19CJJPoQal4)) **What to expect** A friendly environment where all cameras and skill levels are welcome. This is not a workshop; if you’d like to grow your photography skills, check out our other events and workshops designed for those who want to learn more about photography techniques. **Want help with your camera?** We welcome all kind of photo and video cameras! You’re welcome to ask for tips: we’re a supportive community. However, for a proper learning experience, we recommend asking the host about 1:1 coaching sessions or checking our Meetp page for upcoming workshops. **Join our online communities** * Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/friendsbyframe](https://www.instagram.com/friendsbyframe) * WhatsApp: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ek2mMMZioqu19CJJPoQal4](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ek2mMMZioqu19CJJPoQal4)

Join fellow Queer birders on February 22nd for birding at Pickerington Ponds Metropark. No expertise required!

**Summary** For this event, we will do the [Rhino Barn Tour](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) at [The Wilds](https://www.thewilds.org/), a ten-thousand acre conservation center in Muskingum County. It is the largest such center in North America and one of the largest in the entire world. During this tour, we'll visit The Wilds' rhino herd in their state-of-the-art heated barns and learn how The Wilds' animal management team takes care of one of the largest herds of rhinos outside of Africa and Asia. **The date and time of this tour** We will be doing the 1:00 p.m. [Rhino Barn Tour](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) on Saturday, February 28. The tour is scheduled to last 90 minutes. **What you need to do to attend** Signing up here on Meetup will not get you into The Wilds for the tour. You must go out to The Wilds' [website](https://www.thewilds.org/) and [buy a ticket](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour). Please [purchase your ticket](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour), then sign up here on Meetup so I know how many to expect. **Attendance cap** There are only eight total slots/tickets available for this tour. As I obviously have already bought one of the tickets, that leaves seven spaces for everyone else. If you are interested in this event, I urge you to [buy a ticket](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) at The Wilds' website as soon as possible. Since their website is obviously public, nothing prevents other people having nothing to do with *GOhio!* from buying their own tickets, thereby potentially taking an available slot away from you. **Additional notes on attendance** I have now run several events at The Wilds. While the location of The Wilds and the pricing of the tickets generally leads to small turnouts, the people who have gone have all enjoyed it and were glad they went. If you've never been to The Wilds and you like zoos or animals at all, you are likely to find any tour at The Wilds to be a rewarding experience. **Tickets and pricing** [Tickets](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) for this tour are $95, or $76 if you're a Wilds' member. I've posted screen shots, below, to help you be sure you're buying tickets for the correct event. Wilds' memberships pay for themselves if you go to The Wilds at least twice a year, and [Columbus Zoo members](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership) get a discount on memberships to The Wilds. I will always run at least two events a year at The Wilds. Tickets for all Wilds' tours must be purchased at least 24 hours in advance of the actual tour. **Cancellations and refunds** Per The Wilds' [Cancellation Policy](https://www.thewilds.org/policies): *In order to be eligible for refund and accrue no rescheduling fees, cancellations must be made at least 14 days in advance of reservation. Cancellations made within 14 days of reservation will not receive a refund.* You may [contact The Wilds](https://www.thewilds.org/contact) at (740) 638-5030 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., or you can email them at information@thewilds.org. **Waiver of liability** After you purchase your ticket, you will likely be asked to fill out a waiver of liability. This is a very short document and should take you no more than two minutes to complete. **Where we'll meet** We will meet at The Wilds, whose actual address is [14000 International Rd, Cumberland, OH 43732](https://www.google.com/maps/place/14000+International+Rd,+Cumberland,+OH+43732/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8837dae07a595557:0xa1ceca93325a8bd1?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111). Please try to be there by 12:30 p.m. For most Wilds' tours, a shuttle bus will take you to the actual spot of the tour. So think of this as though you're going to the airport to catch a flight. It helps to be on time. The Wilds generally asks that people arrive at least thirty minutes because the scheduled start time of their tour. **GPS / Getting to The Wilds** The Wilds is in a very rural area, but I've never had a problem getting there with my GPS (I have Verizon). I've also uploaded a JPG map, below, of Muskingum County. Sometimes, though, it's hard to get a signal when you're at The Wilds and getting ready to leave. So you might want to consider downloading an offline map in Google Maps. Your cell phone should pick up a signal, however, within a few minutes after you leave. The Wilds' Visitor Center does have free Wi-Fi. **Carpooling?** If you want to carpool, I recommend discussing this in the comments, below, to this event. While I don't myself carpool, I will do what I can to help you arrange something if I can. **The weather** Dress for the weather. Just because the barn is heated doesn't mean it will be warm. And wear closed-toed shoes. Wilds' tours typically run no matter what the weather is. **After the tour** Once we're done with the rhinos, we'll head over to the very highly rated [Y-Bridge Brewing Company](https://ybridgebrewing.com/). The brewery is about thirty minutes from The Wilds, and it will be on the way back to Columbus for most, if not all, of us. The brewery's actual address is [1417 Linden Ave Ste D, Zanesville, OH 43701](https://www.google.com/maps/place/1417+Linden+Ave+d,+Zanesville,+OH+43701/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8837edd6cc50824f:0xe3a0af1ccb2aefbf?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111). Y-Bridge Brewing does not serve food; however, they have several [food options](https://ybridgebrewing.com/food-options). I encourage you to check these out ahead of time on their website for yourself. However, here are a few of them: *Within walking distance -- 120 feet away* * [Angry Bull Saloon](https://www.facebook.com/AngryBullSaloonZanesville/) (pizza & subs) * The Corner Pub Sports Bar and Grill (classic bar food) *Delivery options -- [Door Dash](https://www.doordash.com/)* * [4 Star Pizza](https://fourstarpizza.com/), (740) 452-9300 * [Donatos](https://www.donatos.com/), (740) 452-7900 * [Pizza Cottage](https://www.pizza-cottage.com/), (740) 455-6000 * [Dominos](https://www.dominos.com/), (740) 455-3126 * [Papa John's](https://www.papajohns.com/), (740) 450-4100 If you live in the area or can't make The Wilds but still want to meet us at the brewery, that's fine too.

Meet at Wolfe Park parking lot by tennis courts. We willl walk along Alum Creek trail, through Jeffrey Mansion Park then along Bexley neighborhood and back. Optional lunch at Trolley District.