Wild Birds

Come with me and explore some of the finest pubs South Quay and Greenwich has to offer. We will meet at South Quay DLR Station at 11.30am, and at 11.45 am will make our way to one of my favourite pubs The Gun, {as image above.} {The pub dates back to the early 18th century but took its current name from the cannon which was fired to celebrate the opening of the West India Import Docks in 1802. In the late 18th century, Lord Horatio Nelson acquired a property just up the road (still known as Nelson’s House) and he regularly visited the docks to inspect the guns up until his glorious death at the battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Lord Nelson would frequent The Gun and regularly meet Lady Emma Hamilton in an upstairs room (now called The River Room) for their secret assignations. The Gun also has a long association with smugglers landing contraband on the site and distributing it via a hidden tunnel. To this day there is still a spy-hole in the secret circular staircase to watch out for “The Revenue Men”.} After we have been in the Gun Pub we will follow the Thames Path back down to Island Gardens, and walk through the Greenwich Foot Tunnel and make our way to The Sail Loft. After the Sail Loft our next port of call will be for lunch at the Trafalgar Tavern, { or you can bring your own} then on to The Yacht, finishing off at the Cutty Sark Pub. Stretching over 3 floors of an historic Georgian free house, The Cutty Sark is a vintage pub and restaurant by the River Thames in London. We will then retrace our steps walking back to The Cutty Sark DLR which is about 10 minutes walk away. Walking distance approx. 3 miles. Meet up fee £5 {please have the right change.} If you need any more info call or text on Paul 07530 675739 This is not a smart phone!

**\*\*RSVP for your FREE ticket! We will send instructions on how to claim your complimentary ticket a week before the event\*\*** Join 150 people (equal split of men and women) for London's BIGGEST Christmas Singles Party at [Madison](https://www.madisonlondon.net/) rooftop bar in St Paul's on Friday 19th December for ages 21-45 (age guide). **Please note that guests must have a valid passport or driving licence to attend this event.** The event starts at 7:30pm where on arrival guests will be given a 'red straw' to drink from. The idea being that anyone with a 'red straw' is single and easily identified as part of our group. There will be no name tags or cheesy 'lock & key' ice breakers, infact nobody outside of the event will even know what is going on! Our hosts will be on hand throughout the evening to introduce people to one another and ensure everyone is having a great time. The event will finish around 11pm but your night is far from over as you can stay and enjoy the venue until close. The following day you will be able to contact anyone you met at this event through our website. **Please note this event is weather dependant due to being outdoors. If the event is cancelled due to torrential rain it will be postponed to the following Friday.** Please be aware that places are limited and the majority of our events do sell out, so please book early to avoid disappointment. If you have any queries about this event please contact us at enquiries@dateinadash.com or call our telephone bookings hotline on 0845 862 1448 (9am 5pm).

**Meet people from around the world** in a conversation-friendly space. We mix informal socializing with a few structured activities so you feel safe, relaxed and make new friends! **What is World Citizens?** London's community for new-in-town, expats, travellers and third culture kids who want to meet in a *safe*, *culturally enriching* and *thought-provoking* space. **How to participate?** You *must* enter our ticket lottery at [https://worldcitizenfridays.eventbrite.co.uk](https://worldcitizenfridays.eventbrite.co.uk)! If you're picked, you will receive an invitation email with the secret venue address sometime on Thursday or Friday! **The secret venue address** changes every week, but is usually somewhere in the City of London square mile area, between London Bridge, Tower Hill and Liverpool Street. To receive the full secret venue address you *must* register via Eventbrite lottery. There is no other way. If you received the full secret venue address, please do not share it with anyone! **Why the lottery and secret venue?** We balance quantity and quality, newcomers and regulars, and give everyone a chance to experience safe, diverse and culturally enriching events. Expect *less* attendees than the number of RSVP, but *more* quality time connecting with people in a meaningful way! **What we expect from you:** 1. To be respectful and courteous with everyone. 2. To be present so that others feel listened to. 3. To be mindful of people’s personal space. *These events are for everyone to feel safe, welcome and comfortable; where everyone can be heard; where everyone can maintain boundaries with harmony. Thank you for your cooperation!* **We put women first:** *Over 80% of women in the UK say that nightlife is unsafe ([YouGov Oct 2021 poll](https://www.womensgrid.org.uk/?p=16635)) because of predator men and alcohol/substance abuse. We want to completely change that: World Citizens proactively designs event systems for everyone to enjoy a safe and pleasant evening.* **JOIN OUR TEAM!** We're all volunteers doing this for fun, so if you enjoy organizing activities or events in your spare time, and meeting great people every week, send a message to our team account "TP". **DISCLAIMER:** We are a 100% volunteer-run team. Despite careful planning and structure this is a private informal activity, so we cannot be liable for any damage or inconvenience. However, we put safety and comfort first. We take all complaints seriously, and take severe action against any form of harassment, verbal or non-verbal, and anti-social behaviour. We collaborate with the police if needed. We take photos and videos which may include you to help promote the community in line with GDPR Data Protection law, as well as stock photos from Pexels or Unsplash. We may restrict or prioritize guests at our own discretion for safety, quality and logistics reasons. While our admin decisions may not always be perfect we ask that you follow our decisions first and raise any disputes to discuss with us later and privately. By attending you understand, agree with and respect all terms of this disclaimer.

A county evening out with live band playing all the hits, mechanical bull if you are brave!! And line dancing https://ticketing.designmynight.com/events/68e69f1dc5e09e62aa0f5c08/tickets/selection?source=designmynight&trackingId=tickets

Do you enjoy playing badminton and meeting new friends? Join us at the Greenwich Royal Trust School, a London Social Badminton Meet Up! We play at Greenwich Royal Trust School, 765 Woolwich Rd, London SE7 8LJ on Fridays from 8pm to 10pm. We are a friendly and fun group with people from around the world. We love badminton, especially socializing through badminton. So come along - get fit, exercise, meet other badminton players, and most of all have fun! We play every week, each session has 4 courts, and we use feather shuttles for an authentic badminton experience: The cost of £10 per two-hour session includes feather shuttles. You can pay in cash at the session, or via bank transfer: * Account name: A.K.M.Ho * Account number: 40-02-01 * Sort code: 81245465 Our commitment is to ensure that you have an enjoyable evening. However, since we are a non- profit club with tight finances, we expect that once you RSVP you commit yourself to play. You may cancel up to 24 hours before the the session to avoid any attendance charge and to allow other people on the wait list to play. If you do not show without notice we reserve the right to charge a full non-attendance fee if you come again and persistent offenders may be blocked from our club. So please be thoughtful and let us know in good time if you cannot attend.

Christmas has arrived YAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYY and what do we do for Christmas? We hike, we drink mulled wine and have tasty treats food surrounded by stunning medieval buildings, Christmas lights with the loveliest people to be found on all the continents AKA the Jonions! YAAAAAYYYYY First we will have a peak at all the historical sites and pretty corners of this stunning town, we will walk along the canals for some gorgeous views before we begin our journey through nature and climb the new big Instagram hill, St Catherine's hill, it is trending atm and there are some gorgeous views. Even there, you will be surrounding by history and beauty as the old 'hospital' an active monastry will be on our way, so why not have a peak if you fancy? Whether you hiked with us before or not, join us for a beautiful trip that mixes hiking, eating, drinking(if you wish), laughing, historying,(I know this isn't correct but it rimes), eating and eating... I hope you are ready for some fun! This year will be different from the others, we won't be celebrating in Britain's current capital, no, we will travel through time in a time machine; also called train... and will visit England's former capital and decreed as such by King Alfred, and what a beauty it is... Well, I have to say, this is a bit like visiting my family over there, it's true, the town which was once one the most Important on this Island of Great Britain was created by the Belgae, a celtic tribe from the continent coming from the area today called Belgium and some bits of Northern France who established their settlements around [150BC...my](http://150bc...my/) great great great great great great great great great ... grand parents might even have been some of the founders...kings and Queens I am sure!Yes, I am Belgian and not big headed at all! SO... Let's visit Winchester, you might have heard of it even just for its Christmas market, deemed to be one of the most magicals in England as well as the home of England eldest cathedral. (You might want to visit the remains of the castle for an extra 4 pounds first, it still has the round table! Yes, King Arthur's round table... the famous one.) This is a hiking group, so of course, we will begin this trip with a hike. We will climb the famous St Catherine hill and enjoy the views from its top. This hike is not too long, around 8/9 miles (14km) and the start of the hike is located very close to the city centre, after all, the town is surrounded by gorgeous wild greenery. From pretty streams, to woodlands and acres of fields, hills with 360 degree views and the remains of the early settlements as well as a medieval hospital that is also open to visit and is beautifully decorated around Christmas. And attention beer drinkers; he Hospital of St Cross is famous for its unique and ancient tradition of providing the Wayfarer’s Dole since the 12th century. This is a horn of beer and a morsel of bread given to any visitor who requests it. The custom was founded by a monk from Cluny in France, whose holy order always gave bread and wine to travellers. The tradition still continues today. Visitors may request the Dole at the Porter’s Lodge as they depart. Don't worry, the climb isn't difficult. We will finish the trip at the Christmas market where we will grab some delicious street food and some tasty mulled wine and wander in the historical streets of medieval England before we hop back on the time machine, a bit tipsy and our bellies filled with tasty fatty christmassy food... INFORMATION: DISTANCE: 9 miles/14km DURATION: 5 hours TRANSPORT: By train; we will buy an off peak group days return that will allow us to save 35%on the ticket price. Please ensure that you bring £25 in cash PRICE: £17 ( for the guide's fee) via PayPal About £25 In cash for the train INCLUDED: Guided hike A fun day out with lovely people NOT INCLUDED: Transport Anything else not mentioned above WHAT TO BRING: Waterproof shoes for the hike, preferably hiking shoes, otherwise good trainers; IT IS WINTER,WATERPROOF SHOES MANDATORY. Weather appropriate clothes, including waterproofs if there is a chance of rain; Water bottle; Packed lunch and snacks. MEETING POINT: London Waterloo at 08:30 am PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU CHECK THIS PAGE AGAIN 2 DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE AS THE DEPARTURE STATION IS ONLY CONFIRMED BY SW TRAINS ON THE THURSDAY OR FRIDAY. ATTENTION: Our trips will not be cancelled due to weather conditions so please ensure that you do wear and carry appropriate clothing. 😄 POLICIES: 1: This group is designed for the pleasure and enjoyment of all of us, we do not accept any derogatory comments or behaviours towards anyone. Racism, discrimination and other unacceptable behaviours will only lead to your rejection of any of our trips and this is without exception. Everyone is welcome, we have religious and non-religious people, gay, straight, bisexual people, all shades and colours or nationalities, people of all ages, sex and political beliefs and mutual respect is the fundamental spirit of this group. 2: Our trips are only refundable up to 30 days before departure, if you wish to cancel after that, you will be offered a transfer to another trip for the same price or you may resell your slot to somebody else. 3: If we do cancel the entirety of the trip on our site, you will be fully refunded

*HILLY FITNESS WALK* **17.5 mi (28 km) / 850m ascent / Strenuous (4 paws)** [Link - HIKE GRADINGS EXPLAINED 🐾](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1C6mBtGdskgcT8XIBzC027NsONdvcqduC/edit?usp=share_link&ouid=114389074260978791923&rtpof=true&sd=true) [Link - TRAIL PHOTOS 📷](https://www.meetup.com/tuki-tiger-adventures/photos/35513435/) Exploring the wintery splendour of the ‘Garden of England’ – a magical landscape where ancient woodland, rolling hills, and adventurous ascents await beneath a crisp seasonal sky. Discover the festive spirit as we hike through enchanting trails, fuelled by the joy of the season and the promise of warming Christmas drinks. Unleash your mind and body, and find your inner nature on this uplifting, yuletide outdoor adventure. \*\* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***🏋🏻‍♂️ FITNESS REQUIRED*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- GOOD TO STRONG - capable of climbing/descending potentially steep hills & walking at a fast pace. \*\* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🏞️ ***HIKE HIGHLIGHTS*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- (#) Lush rolling hills, captivating woodland & fields - the best of the ‘Garden of England’ (#) Sweeping panoramic views of the Kent Downs (#) Visit a beautiful 11th century Church (#) Explore the delights of Kemsing Down Nature Reserve (#) Visit traditional, character rich, rural countryside villages & pubs. \*\* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🥪 ***DAY STRUCTURE*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Extended break for lunch / Afternoon & walk end pub stops (Optional). \*\* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***🌎 MEETING POINT*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ‘MAIN ENTRANCE/EXIT’ to Shoreham Station (Kent), no later than specified start time. \*\* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📝 ***LOGISTICS*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- * 8:38 – Train from LONDON BRIDGE * 9:06 – Connection at SWANLEY * 9:20 – Start walk from SHOREHAM * 17:30 – Estimated finish, no guarantees! (**Circular Hike**) \*\* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🚂 ***TRAIN TICKET*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- * *'Return to Shoreham' (Kent)* (**1 Change**) \*\* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***💰 COST & PAYMENT - £10*** *Includes guided hike / Excludes train ticket* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- (A) PAYPAL – **@tukitiger** using the *‘**Friends & Family**'* option ONLY! (B) BANK TRANSFER Name: **JAMES WASMUTH** Sort Code #: **07 01 16** Acc #: **02162841** [Link - PAYMENT TERMS](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1r9dqpp_IQpKSW1EWkDsXvVocH81_IsXn/edit?usp=share_link&ouid=114389074260978791923&rtpof=true&sd=true) \*\* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🥾 ***WHAT TO BRING*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- * Torch (Autumn/Winter hikes) * Sit mat * Outdoor wear – basic technical clothing & equipment * AVOID - jeans * Waterproofs (rain forecast?) * Footwear – recommend ankle support hiking boots, not essential * Packed Lunch (high energy snacks possibly) * Water – 1 to 2 litres * Vaseline (good for avoiding blisters) [Link - HIKE KIT LIST](https://docs.google.com/document/d/19NW5yvYm-MGoZFtFKZd4o9A1rIIZarOU/edit?usp=share_link&ouid=114389074260978791923&rtpof=true&sd=true) \*\* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***⚕️ SAFETY*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- This hike is led by an experienced hike leader & qualified Outdoor Activity First Aider. Outdoor activities involve a risk of personal injury. \*\* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***📜 TERMS & CONDITIONS*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- By signing up to or attending this event you are confirming you agree to our ‘T&C's'. [Link - TERMS & CONDITIONS](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XLzWghaxsQXbjlPKDIHsjvPZN7slMYhI/edit?usp=share_link&ouid=114389074260978791923&rtpof=true&sd=true) \*\* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***📢 CONNECT*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/tukitigeradventures/) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/TukiTigerAdventures) [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/tukitigercommunity)

A walk right the way around Fairlop Waters and also Aldborough Hall Nature Reserve. Our usual shortish walk for the Saturday before Christmas, so we can get to the pub a little earlier. We're meeting in the Fairlop Oak (NOT FAIRLOP WATERS) at 11am for a pre-walk coffee. I would suggest arriving a little earlier if you want to chill, chat, maybe breakfast We'll be finishing back there around mid-afternoon for some well deserved Christmas food and/or drink for those who do want to come into the pub. For those coming by train, its Fairlop station and turn right to the roundabout where the car park sits. Its also served by seven bus routes - 128, 150, 167, 169, 247, 275, 462. For those driving, there is a lot of free parking a stone's throw from the pub - along Fullwell Ave and it's side roads. If you haven't already paid for Dec, I ask for a nominal contribution of £2 per walk to help with Meetup organiser fees. RISK WARNING/DISCLAIMER: Please remember that as with any physical activity, there can be dangers associated with hiking/walking, especially around waterways, forests, farms and countryside. Your decision to voluntarily participate in this activity is an informed decision. and by attending this event you agree and accept to take sole responsibility for your own actions, your own safety, and your own belongings. Please dress appropriately, including sturdy shoes. Please bring any necessary medication with you. You will need to be sufficiently fit to walk several miles at a moderate pace. We may occasionally cross or walk short distances on roads; country and woodland tracks can be muddy or slippery; animals may be encountered on occasion. INSURANCE: If either yourself or any guests you bring along require insurance for this walk, then you must arrange this yourselves. GUESTS: If you are bringing any guests along, there is no facility on the Meetup site to record their details. Please ensure that you make them fully aware of the Risk Warning/Disclaimer and Insurance statements.

Join us for the dawn of the shortest day to celebrate the depths of Winter and the warmth of community. Watch the sunrise with other early risers on top of Primrose Hill. Take in one of the best views of London, and then warm up in a nearby cafe. Conversations fuelled by early morning light and coffee tend to be good ones. \*\*You can also join us on [TRIBE](https://tribeirl.com/the-sunrise-club)\*\* On **Sunday** 21st December, we will: * Meet from: 7:45AM at the top of Primrose Hill * **Sunrise at: 8:04AM** * Take in the view for a little while * Walk to a nearby cafe * Warm up with coffee We meet regularly - roughly 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 **[WEBSITE](www.alltogether.one)** for all other groups and to sign up to the newsletter 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)' ❤️

📈 **Grade: 🥾🥾 🥾🥾 Level 4/5** Join us for a South Downs adventure from Hassocks to Brighton, complete with rolling hills, iconic windmills and a magical Christmas lights finale on the seafront. We will journey along one of the most scenic and uplifting stretches of the South Downs Way, a route that is considered challenging thanks to its mileage, steady elevation changes and exposed ridgelines where wide skies and gusty winds add extra drama to the day. With the Christmas season approaching, this walk offers a perfect blend of fresh winter air, open landscapes and a festive finish by the coast. Expect a few hills that will warm the legs nicely, plus the occasional gust that might steal your hat if you are not careful. We begin with a bold climb out of Hassocks, which sits just below the famous Jack and Jill Windmills. Jill is a restored white post mill that originally stood in Brighton before being taken apart, hauled uphill by horses and oxen and rebuilt at Clayton. She still grinds flour on special open days. Jack stands beside her as a tall brick tower mill that is privately owned. Together they create an iconic landmark often seen on film and TV, and on a clear day they perfectly frame the sweeping views over the South Downs. The climb to reach them is the first leg tester of the day, but the views at the top tend to make everyone forget how much they were questioning their life choices five minutes earlier. A little further along the ridge we reach Ditchling Beacon, one of the highest points on the South Downs. The climb is steady but rewarding, offering wide open views across the Sussex Weald and out toward the coast. It is a classic landmark on the South Downs Way and a perfect spot to catch your breath and take in the sweeping landscape. From there the trail winds across classic chalk downland, past wind shaped hawthorn trees and wildflower grasslands, before dipping into the shady calm of Stanmer Park. This peaceful stretch through ancient woodland and the flint built village offers an ideal stop for a relaxed lunch. After lunch we continue towards Brighton, briefly skirting the University of Sussex where pockets of modern architecture and student life contrast with the timeless rural landscape. Soon after, the countryside opens up again as we turn toward the coast. Expect more rolling hills, the kind that look innocent from a distance but somehow grow taller as you approach. Nothing too dramatic, just enough to keep things interesting and remind you that snacks are important. The final descent flows through open farmland and gentle hills until you reach Brighton Beach where chalk cliffs, rolling waves and the lively energy of the city greet you. Once we reach the seafront we will stroll toward the pier, soaking up the Brighton Christmas lights, festive displays and seaside sparkle. With Christmas approaching and it being the last Saturday before the holiday, Brighton will be buzzing with life. The city comes alive with festive energy, colourful shop fronts and seasonal lights that give the pier and promenade an extra magical glow. After enjoying the atmosphere we will make our way back to the station, with the option to stop at a cosy pub for a cheerful pre Christmas drink before catching the train back to London. 🛑 Important: This hike is rated moderate to strenuous and is not suitable for beginners. Since we are close to the shortest day of the year, a head torch is essential. **📍 MEETING POINT OPTION 1 - (London departure):** Buy a return from London Bridge to Brighton: £12.10 with Network Railcard, valid on Thameslink only. * 08:00 Meet at **[London Bridge ticket office](https://w3w.co/broke.window.rewarding)** * 08:20 Leave meeting point and board the train * 08:35 Train departs London Bridge * 09:32 Arrive at Hassocks **📍 MEETING POINT OPTION 2 - (Join at Hassocks):** * 09:30 **[Hassocks railway station car park](https://w3w.co/innovate.gone.scarf)** * If arriving on a train from London, exit the station directly. * If arriving on a train from Brighton, cross the platform first, then exit the station. **🚶 WALK STARTS:** * 09:45 Walk begins from **[Hassocks railway station car park](https://w3w.co/innovate.gone.scarf)** **🏁 WALK FINISHES:** * About 16:00 to 17:00 at Brighton Pier 🍔 **LUNCH:** * Bring a packed lunch and some snacks. We will stop at Stanmer village for about 30 to 45 minutes. * There is a shop that sells tea, coffee, cake and has outdoor seating. ↩️ **RETURN TRAINS TO LONDON BRIDGE:** * Regulare trains run from **[Brighton railway station](https://w3w.co/rabble.powers.secure)** * 17:28 → Arrive London Bridge 18:35 * 17:44 → Arrive London Bridge 18:45 * 18:14 → Arrive London Bridge 19:15 * 18:28 → Arrive London Bridge 19:35 🚻 **TOILETS:** * Nature facilities, Stanmer village and garden centre, Brighton 🏞️ **TERRAIN, CONDITIONS AND DIFFICULTY** * Distance: approx. 24 km (15 miles) * Difficulty: moderate to challenging * Ascent and descent: 537 m and 531 m * Max and min elevation: 242 m and 9 m * Average pace: 4.2 km per hour * Walking time: around 6 hours * Total duration (including breaks): about 7 hours * Expect a mix of very steep ascents, exposed open plains, peaceful woodland trails and uneven gravel tracks that keep the terrain varied throughout the day. 🎒 **WHAT TO BRING:** * Packed lunch and snacks * Water (at least 2L) * Sturdy hiking boots * Layers and wind and waterproof clothing * Extra clothing to change into (for example a fleece) in case you finish sweaty or wet * Spare socks * Sun or winter protection * Medication and basic first aid (**[Compeed](https://www.compeed.co.uk/)** for blisters) * Optional walking poles * Fully charged phone * A small wish list for Santa for extra festive spirit 📞 **CONTACT:** * Please message the event host **AdrianB** directly via Meetup with any questions. ⚠️**DISCLAIMER:** By joining, you confirm you’ve read and accepted the group policy on the About page. You are responsible for your own safety, and neither the host nor the group can be held liable for injury, loss, or damage.

SHOOT THE ICONIC BRIDGES OF LONDON! For this session we'll be travelling from Westminster up river shooting as many bridges we can! Make sure you have your Oyster card to hand as it may be quicker to jump on and off public transportation so we make best use of the time, Filters give you the ability to smooth water, blur clouds and make moving objects turn ghost-like or disappear. This type of photography is associated with fine art photography due to the surreal effects long exposures can bring. **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** WHAT YOU WILL LEARN * Master 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 REQUIRED EQUIPMENT * A tripod * Shutter release * Lens: 18-55mm, 24-70mm or similar EXPERIENCE * Beginners and refreshers CLOTHING * Check the weather and dress accordingly OTHER ESSENTIALS As usual check the TFL website for any delays that may interrupt your journey. Contact Alex 07956264049 UPCOMING EVENTS [https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/calendar/](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/calendar/)

Join us at Sharon Woods Metropark this December 28th from 9-10:30 am for some lovely winter birding. [Register here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeOAdQlIaKro1dFCgfp26IcwsaxQjzbYMZVQ7mLg3dViQDrsQ/viewform?usp=sf_link) for details closer to the event.

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Jennings Java Artisan Coffee Roasters](https://www.jenningsjava.com/)!

**History** [Wildlights](https://www.columbuszoo.org/wildlights) began in 1988 as "Wildlight Wonderland," a smaller-scale effort to boost winter attendance at the [Columbus Zoo](https://www.columbuszoo.org/). Before the event started, December was a slow month for the zoo, with as few as 1,000 visitors in the first week. The inaugural display featured 100,000 to 150,000 white lights around the lake, successfully drawing 12,000 people and establishing a new holiday tradition. The event quickly grew in size and popularity, adding more lights and new attractions over the years. Early improvements included increasing the number of lights to 200,000 in the second year and adding animal-themed light sculptures. By 2006, the event fully transitioned to LED lights, paving the way for a massive expansion in the scale and creativity of the displays. This change allowed the zoo to grow its display to millions of colorful lights. The event has evolved to include themed animated shows, like the *Holiday Magic* light show over Conservation Lake, and new immersive experiences. Today, Wildlights attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each season, becoming a Central Ohio holiday staple. Each year, the event continues to add new attractions, like the 2024 *Yule Tide Boat Ride* on Dino Island. The modern version of Wildlights also incorporates special features to enhance the guest experience, such as meet-and-greets with holiday characters like Rudolph and sensory-friendly viewing nights. Throughout its history, Wildlights has continued to expand, adding new elements while creating a cherished winter tradition for the community. **Summary** Except for the [Congo](https://www.columbuszoo.org/congo-expedition) and [Africa](https://www.columbuszoo.org/heart-of-africa) regions, most of the Zoo is scheduled to be open and appointed with various Christmas decorations. The [Dinosaur Island Boat Ride](https://www.columbuszoo.org/ride/dinosaur-island-boat-ride), [Zoo Train Ride](https://www.columbuszoo.org/ride/north-america-train-ride), and [Grand Carousel](https://www.columbuszoo.org/ride/grand-carousel) are also supposed to be open and in a state of appropriate Yuletide cheer, weather permitting. [Gold members](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership) can ride the rides for free; otherwise, they're $3 or $4, depending on the ride and whether you're a [Zoo member](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership). S'mores and Frosted Nuts will be available at both [Wild Burger](https://www.columbuszoo.org/dining-option/wildburger) and the [Congo Food Court](https://www.columbuszoo.org/dining-option/congo-river-market-food-court). There's also supposed to be a new, "immersive" light display this year in [Adventure Cove](https://www.columbuszoo.org/adventure-cove). Perhaps the Zoo is trying to make everyone forget just how uncomfortable of a roller coaster the [Tidal Twist](https://www.columbuszoo.org/ride/tidal-twist) is. 😆 **Where we'll meet** If you've never been the Zoo before, they have "red" and "blue" parking lots that are really both equidistant from the main gate. I generally park in the red lot, but and time- and distance-wise, they're really the same. After you've parked, the Zoo has a security gate that you just walk through while they scan you for nuclear bombs and things like that. Then there's a second gate, inside the first security gate, where you'll either give them your ticket (which you can buy either [online](https://www.columbuszoo.org/hours-and-rates), or at one of the ticket windows on-site), or where they'll scan the membership [QR code](https://www.columbuszoo.org/digital-zoo-membership) on your phone if you're a [Zoo member](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership). Just inside this second entry gate is a big fountain with a large metal globe over it. We'll meet by this fountain. **Restrooms and water fountains** You can't walk five feet at the Zoo without bumping into another set of restrooms and water fountains. When kids need to pee, they need to pee, and the Columbus Zoo is a family-friendly place. The restrooms also all have paper towels and not those stupid hand dryers. When kids need to have their faces wiped, they need their faces wiped. There are even restrooms outside the second gate before you even officially enter the Zoo. I'm telling you, someone did some good planning on this place. **Tickets / pricing** Zoo entry is $26 for residents of Franklin County, and $36 otherwise. Parking is $10. If you're a [Zoo member](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership), though, this is all free. **"Should I buy a membership?"** Probably. If you go even twice a year, the [membership](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership) pays for itself. I will always run at least one event a year at the Columbus Zoo. This event will actually be my second at the Zoo for 2025. **After the presents are opened** After absorbing all the holiday cheer and electromagnetic radiation that the Zoo has to offer, we'll charge over to the positively rated [Nocterra Brewing](https://nocterrabrewing.com/powell-taproom/), which is about five minutes away from the Zoo. The brewery has a [food truck](https://nocterrabrewing.com/trail-magic-kitchen/) that has burgers, fries, chicken, pretzels, and grilled cheese. The actual address of the brewery is [41 Depot St, Powell, OH 43065](https://www.google.com/maps/place/41+Depot+St,+Powell,+OH+43065/@40.1596203,-83.0785105,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f2758d4778c9:0xf8991f589eac0291!8m2!3d40.1596203!4d-83.0785105!16s%2Fg%2F11bw3ytblz?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Come out and join us even if you can't make the Zoo (but feel appropriate guilt if you don't).

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!