Bird Watching London

Stitch and Bitch Beckenham

First ever Stitch and Bitch Beckenham! We will be meeting weekly (can only show fortnightly on meetup) at Kelsey House BR3 1AN from 19:00-21:00. Whether you knit, crochet, cross stitch, embroider, felt or anything else, all levels are welcome - just bring your supplies! Follow us on ig @stitchandbitchbeckenham

Join Flamsteed (other group) Saturday evening observing (Blackheath)

Flamsteed is a formal (famous!) astronomy society based in Greenwich that runs regular events. This is one of their stargazing observing meets thats open to the public (not all are), on Blackheath Common. **Weather may alter plans** to Sunday if not good enough ([See their public events list](https://www.flamsteed.info/public-events)), but it will be on Saturday or fallback to Sunday evening (if not cancelled) depending on the best forecast viewing. So **DO** double check the event schedule on their website (or Facebook event) in the day or so ahead - or their [twitter](https://twitter.com/Flamsteed)(X)/[facebook](https://www.facebook.com/FlamsteedAS) to see whether Friday or Saturday is chosen - weather can cause cancellations! Show up with or without a telescope/binoculars/other equipment; its usually been a smaller crowd of a handful of people, especially on the coldest nights, and just occasionally (in my experience/what I've heard) not quite as friendly to newcomers/minority groups, but there are also likely to be some very knowledgeable people there who've been committed amateur (or even pro) astronomers for a while. They're further East than we usually meet, but still our side of the river so I will post their events sometimes, when open to the public (many of their other events are members-only). These meetings are usually attended by several of their members and others, who bring telescopes and binoculars along and are generally keen to share views through them/explain what you can see. A few of their members are also members of this group. To find out more about the society and joining to gain access to other events and their member benefits (including loan equipment I believe), see their [website](https://www.flamsteed.info). **Getting there** The meeting point is just round the corner on the grass next to Prince Charles Street/off Talbot Street (they have a page [about it](https://www.flamsteed.info/blackheath-observing)). \* Public Transport/Walking Nearest train stop: Blackheath station; only a 5-10minute walk to the meet location up the hill a bit and onto the common (turn left out of the station). \* Driving? Parking might be available on (or near) Prince Charles Street. Try not to blind the group with your headlights as you approach, it takes minutes to build up good night vision but less than a second to ruin it. Beware parking restrictions for the residential area, Talbot Place is a cul-de-sac and there is a barrier restricting vehicle access to some parts. **To expect once there** In good weather, you can expect anywhere from a handful to around 10 (bit of a guess) telescopes of many shapes and sizes set up, all with owners keen to share views and to learn from each other. Ask and they will usually be only too happy to explain what to expect or what each tool is best for. There'll be some binoculars, astro-photography too occasionally, people from beginners to (often) experts in at least one subject area. Ask nicely and join queues if they form around the more impressive scopes. If unfamiliar/first time, ask for advice to get the best use (eg. firstly: don't touch the scope at all, as a tiny jog will make the view shimmy around for a few seconds - just hold your eye next to the eyepiece, you might need to move your eye around a bit to find the view; ask/find owner if view empty/seems out of focus - keep your fingers off any glass and don't try to clean/wipe anything). **The Organisers** Flamsteed run this event, who are a proper astronomical society; I (your meetup group organiser, John) may sometimes also attend their meetings, but you should not rely on finding me there. Its not as well attended as the Baker Street Irregulars group in Regents Park, but there are a higher ratio of serious astronomers and astrophotographers in the group (due to requiring a subscription). **Why Go?** More of a trek than our own meets, the skies here are quite clear, a reasonable horizon. There are often very experienced astronomers attending, but numbers vary. You can find out more about the Flamsteed society from its members. There's always at least a handful of people and scopes there. Another great way to learn more and find out what sort of equipment different people have and why/how they use it, and to compare views. Dress warmly (warmer than you expect, if you're not used to standing still in big open spaces with clear skies for an hour or two at night), maybe bring a flask of hot drink. Guidance provided! No telescope/binoculars? There are usually several telescopes/binoculars that members/attendees will share views through and explain if asked. More Info: This event's page on their website: [flamsteed.info/event-details/blackheath-observing-event-saturday-19-september-weather-back-up-sunday-20-september-2026-09-19-20-00](https://www.flamsteed.info/event-details/blackheath-observing-event-saturday-19-september-weather-back-up-sunday-20-september-2026-09-19-20-00)

Public Speaking Club with Early Bird Speakers

**Who We Are** Early Bird Speakers is one of London's best public speaking club for beginners and experienced speakers alike. Our fast-paced, engaging meetings help members develop confidence and refine their speaking skills in a supportive environment. **What to Expect** Each meeting follows a structured format with three key segments: * **Prepared Speeches** – Members deliver speeches based on projects that enhance skills like storytelling, persuasion, and vocal variety. * **Impromptu Speaking (Table Topics)** – Participants practice thinking on their feet with 1–2 minute speeches on surprise topics. * **Evaluations** – Constructive feedback is given to foster continuous improvement. **Why Join Us?** * A **diverse and welcoming** community, including professionals, entrepreneurs, artists, and more. * **Energetic and engaging** sessions designed to make learning enjoyable. * A **structured yet fun** experience that builds confidence and skill. * Optional **post-meeting coffee or breakfast** for networking and socialising. * Each meeting is attend by 30-50 people **Whether you’re terrified of public speaking or already confident at the mic,** this club is the place to grow. From first-time speakers to experienced presenters — everyone has something to gain here. **Meeting Details** 📍 **Where:** Freemasons' Hall, 60 Great Queen Street, London, WC2B 5AZ 🕖 **When:** Every Thursday at 7:00AM - 8:45 AM (Please try to be on time as reception downstairs will close shortly after the meeting has started) Join us for free as a guest! Feel free to sign up on Meetup or **simply show up on Thursday.** Whatever your speaking ability, you'll find a warm and supportive atmosphere to grow your skills. 📩 **Questions?** Send us a message on meetup, visit [www.earlybirdspeakers.com](http://www.earlybirdspeakers.com/) or e-mail us on membership@earlybirdspeakers.com

THE SUNRISE CLUB: meet while the city sleeps for a tiny adventure, community & ☕

It's Sunrise Season again :-) Watch the sunrise in the company of other people who are up for tiny adventures. Warm up and carry on conversations in a nearby cafe afterwards. (Conversations fuelled by early morning light and coffee tend to be good ones.) **The plan:** * meet at 7AM at the top of **PRIMROSE HILL** * sunrise is at 7:05AM * take in the view for a little while (depending on how cold it is) * walk to a local café on Regents Park Road * warm up with coffee We meet frequently to create and sustain community. New people and visitors are always welcome :-) We will be easy to find because we will be at the top of the hill looking out for early birds. Relevant links: **[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/thesunriseclubetc)** to see some beautiful skies & what these meetups look like **[SUBSTACK](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/)** for the newsletter and occasional extras **[WEBSITE](http://www.alltogether.one/)** for all other groups **[WHATSAPP GROUP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DPkYXvrP6IhFrSRDiQACLC)** for occasional announcements Looking forward to seeing you! Bonny :-)

Soul Rewilding Harvest Weekend 25th - 27th September 2026

Join us this September for a restorative weekend of slowing down, reconnecting with nature and celebrating the ancient rhythms of harvest. In a world that often leaves us feeling hurried, disconnected and overwhelmed by the climate and nature crisis, this weekend offers a balm. A chance to spend time with nature, with each other, and to explore the wisdom of gratitude and community. We’ll be at Hilfield Friary, a Franciscan community set amidst meadows, woods and farmland in the beautiful Dorset countryside. It offers a peaceful, welcoming space where contemplation, hospitality and care for nature are woven into daily life. During the weekend we’ll share: * Guided walks exploring Hilfield's biodiversity and land restoration work * Guided sessions on foraging and animal tracking * Practical harvest activities and seasonal tasks preserving, bread baking and harvesting from the Friary kitchen garden * Nature knowledge and creative skills * A campfire evening evening with stories, poetry and music * A joyful Harvest supper celebrating nature’s gifts and abundance * Time for reflection inspired by eco spirituality * Gentle conversations about living faithfully and hopefully in an age of ecological uncertainty, exploring how gratitude and community can become powerful responses to the challenges we face. **Dates:** Friday 25 Sept (starting at 12pm) to Sunday 27 Sept (ending at 3pm) **Venue:** Hilfield Friary, The Friary, Hilfield, Dorchester DT2 7BE **Cost:** The cost includes two nights accommodation (Friday and Saturday), all meals, refreshments, sessions, and materials. You will have your own bedroom, but share bathrooms. **Early bird price:** £200 - if you book before the end of July you’ll enjoy a special early bird price! **Standard price:** £260 - all bookings from the 1 August will be at the standard price To secure your booking, a £100 deposit per person (non-refundable and non-transferable) is required at the time of booking. Booking is now OPEN and you can reserve your place here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScYgf_p_JMKRuU-2vW2pXDV9hlQIx8ExeOvZhyItnQOn6ZwUA/viewform?pli=1

🦌 Rutting Season - Wildlife in Richmond Park 🦌

Join us in Richmond Park during rutting season to capture some dramatic photography whilst it is rutting season. There are a variety of wildlife to photograph including the majestic Red and Fallow deer. We will also be on the lookout for other wildlife subjects including brightly coloured ring-necked parakeets and green woodpeckers. Come and meet other wildlife photographers, improve or refresh your skills and knowledge and experience the joy of shooting deer. *** WHAT YOU WILL LEARN This session will consist of an introduction to the basics of wildlife photography, including: * Best camera settings & controls * Shutter speeds to get sharp photos * Panning * Selective focus and aperture control for subject to pop out of the background * Composition EXPERIENCE LEVEL * Beginners with a basic knowledge of using your camera * Intermediates looking to refresh their skills EQUIPMENT * Any camera * Lens: 70-200mm - 300mm or longer if you have one * Tripods are optional OTHER ESSENTIALS * Check weather on the day * Wear appropriate clothing/shoes for weather * Bin bag may be helpful to kneel on TRAVEL * Check the TFL website for any delays that may affect your journey *** CONTACT Alex 07956 264049 UPCOMING EVENTS https://www.meetup.com/LondonPhotographicopa/events/calendar/

Pitch.London - Founder Matchmaking & Speed Problem Solving

Pitch.london is a curated speed-networking event for founders, operators and serious builders. Short, structured conversations. Sharp prompts. Real chemistry, fast. The hardest problem in early-stage entrepreneurship is finding the right people. Most events leave it to chance. We don’t. The room is curated, the prompts are clear, and the format is built for high-signal encounters between people who are actually building something. In one evening, you can meet more relevant people than you might in months of random networking. Two formats. One room. Zero fluff. **01\. Founder matchmaking pitches** Sixty seconds to share who you are, what you’re building, and what would actually help right now. Whatever you’re looking for, the room is built to help you find it: people to build with, people to hire or be hired by, advisors and investors, or honest feedback on what you’re shipping. **02\. Group brainstorms** Small, time-boxed groups tackle a real challenge brought into the room. Bring a live problem you’re stuck on. Get five minds on it for ten minutes. Leave with new angles and next steps. **This room is for you if you’re:** * A founder seeking a co-founder * A founder seeking a first hire * An operator looking for a serious team to join * A technical builder open to commercial partners * A commercial builder open to technical partners * A second-time founder scoping the next thing * An angel investor close to the early-stage scene It’s probably not for you if you’re hunting for clients, selling services, or still working out what you’re looking for. **Run of show** * 17:30 to 18:00 Doors, drinks, soft start * 18:00 to 18:05 Welcome and the rules of the room * 18:05 to 18:35 Speed pitches: Round 1 * 18:35 to 19:15 Group brainstorms * 19:15 to 19:45 Speed pitches: Round 2 * 19:45 to 20:00 Open networking, then drinks at the citizenM Skybar **What’s included** Your £25 covers your seat in the room and a drink at the citizenM Skybar after the programme. **First 30 in get a seat**

🦭✨ A Magical Day Trip to See the Baby Seals at Norfolk Beach! 🌊🐾

**🦭✨ A Magical Day Trip to See the Baby Seals at Norfolk Beach! 🌊🐾** **Coach Trip from London (Stratford Station)** ***🦭🐾 Let’s go seal the day together! 🌊💙*** **\-\-\-** **🗓️ Date & Time** 📍Meeting point: Outside Stratford Station (near the bus station). WHATSAPP GROUP FOR EXACT Location. 🕗 Departure: 8:05 AM sharp 🕚 Arrival at Norfolk: Around 11:00 AM 🍽️ Pub lunch: 4:00 PM (optional but highly recommended!) 🚌 Return departure: 5:30 PM 🏙️ Arrive back in London: Around 8:30 PM (traffic depending) \-\-\- **🌟 Event Overview** We’re heading to the beautiful beaches of Norfolk to witness one of nature’s most heartwarming sights — hundreds of adorable baby seals! 🦭💙 Every winter, between November and February, the beaches between Horsey and Winterton become home to more than 5,000 Atlantic grey seals, making Norfolk one of the best and largest seal-viewing spots in the world. You’ll see fluffy newborn pups, playful young seals, and giant males lounging on the sand. 🐾 Volunteers will be nearby to answer questions and help ensure everyone enjoys this special wildlife experience safely. After our gentle 6–7 mile easy coastal walk, we’ll head to a local country pub at 4:00 PM for a well-deserved late lunch and a chance to relax, chat, and share photos before heading back to London. 🍻🥧 \-\-\- ***📸 What to Expect*** **✨ Up-close (but respectful!) encounters with baby seals. Close Encounters not always possible. For health and safety reasons. Keep minimum distance of 10 meters for safety reasons.** **🏖️ A scenic beach and dune walk through the Broads National Nature Reserve.** **🌾 Stunning coastal views and charming nearby villages.** **🌤️ A relaxed, friendly group atmosphere with nature lovers like you.** **\-\-\-** ***🦭 A Little History & Fun Facts*** The Atlantic grey seals of Norfolk are one of the largest breeding colonies in England. Each year, female seals return to the same beaches to give birth — and the pups, born with white fur, stay close to their mothers for about three weeks before heading into the sea. In recent years, conservation efforts have helped the population thrive, turning this quiet stretch of coast into one of Britain’s most treasured wildlife spectacles. 🌍💚 \-\-\- **🚶‍♀️ Hike Details** **Distance**: 6–7 miles (easy and mostly flat) **Difficulty**: 🟢 Easy – suitable for all fitness levels **Terrain**: Sand dunes, grassy paths, and beach sections **Duration**: Around 3 hours (including photo stops and breaks) ***Please note: The seals are wild animals — if they approach you, do not touch them. Their mothers may abandon them if they smell human scent.*** **\-\-\-** ***💷 Cost & Payment*** 🎟️ £61 per person Includes: ✅ Return coach transport from London. ✅ Guided coastal hike with a qualified and fully trained and experienced Hike leader. ✅ Organising costs and group coordination **💰 *£1 deposit required to reserve your seat — this event always sells out fast!*** ***All payments are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled by us.*** \-\-\- **🍱 Food & Refreshments** ***🥪 Bring your own packed lunch and water, as there are no shops on the beach.*** ***🍻 Optional pub meal at 4:00 PM (bring cash/card just in case).*** ***\-\-\-*** **🎒 What to Bring** Waterproof hiking shoes or boots 🥾 Warm, weatherproof clothing 🧥 Packed lunch + snacks 🍎 Water bottle 💧 Camera or phone for photos 📸 Good vibes and curiosity! 😄 \-\-\- ***☔ Weather & Safety.*** We go rain or shine! 🌦️ Please dress appropriately — it might be breezy or muddy in places. Even if the forecast shows rain, it’s often just for a short while. Your host is first-aid trained. You are responsible for your own health and safety during the event. The Host is qualified and Experienced Hiking and Mountain Leader. \-\-\- 📱 **How to Book** **📩 Message the host on WhatsApp: 07590 919391** 💷 Pay your £1 deposit to reserve your seat (first come, first served) Once you’re confirmed, you’ll be added to the event WhatsApp group for all travel details and updates. \-\-\- **🚍 Why Coach Travel?** Travelling by coach makes the journey cheaper, faster, and more social! You’ll sit back, relax, chat with fellow adventurers, and arrive together right at the beach — no confusing train changes or long walks from stations. Last year’s trip was an incredible success (we did it 3 times!) and everyone loved it. 💬✨ \-\-\- **⚠️ Terms & Conditions** *This is a social, non-profit hobby group event.* *Participation is at your own risk. Please ensure you have suitable personal or travel insurance if needed.* *Refunds are only issued if the event is cancelled by the organiser.* \-\-\- **💚 Join Us for One of the Most Magical Days of the Year!** There’s nothing quite like seeing hundreds of baby seals up close in their natural habitat — a truly unforgettable experience! Spaces are very limited and this event sells out fast every year, so book your spot early! 🎟️✨ **🦭🐾 Let’s go seal the day together! 🌊💙** \-\-\-

Long Exposure - Shoot the Shard with PLATYPOD!

Long exposure photography is a genre in photography that is associated with fine art photography due to the surreal effects long exposure photography can bring. We will be providing all the filter equipment including the ND filters, graduated filters, holders and adapters so you'll be able to create similar effects to this image. **Today we are bringing the PLATYPOD DELTA for you to try** \- the tripod you can use when you can't use a tripod\! Platypods are super small and light\, will fit in your back pocket and are great to have as part of your kit when you can't use a traditional tripod\. **So leave your tripod at home!** **[https://www.platypod.com/](https://www.platypod.com/)** 20% Discount code: **London20** WHAT YOU WILL LEARN * Using filters for dramatic effects * Correctly exposure * Achieve interesting motion blur effects * Composition techniques REQUIRED EQUIPMENT * Kit lens or wider 18-55, 24-70, 14-35, etc * A tripod * A trigger release EXPERIENCE * Beginners and refreshers * Know how to put your camera into Manual or Bulb Mode * How to change your ISO, Aperture & Shutter speed WHAT TO WEAR * Check the weather and dress accordingly TRAVEL * As usual check the TFL website for any delays that may interrupt your journey * We may jump on the tube to get to another location so make sure you have your Oyster card topped up CONTACT Alex 07956264049 **TRAVEL WEEKENDS** **BERLIN - Oct 2026** **[https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/315327782](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/315327782)** **VENICE - Oct 2026** **[https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095)** **VALENCIA - Jan 2027** **[https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/315327518/edit/](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/315327518/edit/)** **MONTHLY EVENTS** **[www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events](http://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events)**

Kew to Kings: Path to Parliament along the Thames, with tour

**DESCRIPTION** As you might know, I work at the Houses of Parliament, so what better way to end a riverside adventure than right on its doorstep? This 20 km tough hike starts at Kew gardens station and follows the beautiful Thames Path through leafy parks, riverside pubs, and iconic London neighbourhoods, finishing at Westminster. Expect a mix of nature, history, and urban charm. Depending on access and permissions, I might be able to bring a couple of guests inside at some point for a look around, any bars open — no promises, but it’s a possibility! **Social media pic of this event previously:** [https://www.instagram.com/p/DUNaZ7OiCHf/?igsi=em0zOGgyMDh5M3oz](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUNaZ7OiCHf/?igsi=em0zOGgyMDh5M3oz) **WHAT TO EXPECT - HIKING INFO** Distance: **20kM** route Ascent: c.**373 metres** Estimated Duration (approx): **5 hours walking** Difficulty: \**[Energetic](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/hike-grade)* **PROGRAMME** Meeting Point: Kew gardens Station 10:00. Ending Westminster around 16:30 **COST** The cost is **£12 per person.** for hike only. **HIKE INCLUDES** * Guided Hike planned and led by experienced AAA leader who is Lowland leader qualified, Wilderness First Aid qualified, Summer Mountain Leader trained. * PayPal fees **PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** * 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 **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](mailto:info@aaalondongroup.com)]([mailto:info@aaalondongroup.com](http://mailto: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/) \| [Trip Adviser](https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186338-d19994843-Reviews-AAA_Hiking_Outdoor_Group-London_England.html) \| [Website](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/) © AAA London Group Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted

Cutty Sark & Greenwich Park social walk

Clifton Nurseries, & lovely walk along the Regents Canal to Kings Cross.

This a new walk, and is well worth doing, and is 6 miles approximately. We will meet at 11.00 am, for a hot drink at the cafe in Clifton Nurseries near Warwick Avenue Undeground Station. (This is a lovely Garden Centre and well worth visiting.} After our hot drink at 11.20 am, we will walk along The Regents Canal and to The Ice Wharf for a lunch {or bring our own}. With Camden Town Underground less than 10 minutes away. For those that would like to walk further, we can walk to Kings Cross and have a drink in The Parcel Yard in the station. £ 7 meetup fee required {please have the right change}. You will OK to wear trainers on this walk as it a concrete towpath. If you need any more info, please ring or text Paul on 07530 675739 {This is not a smart phone}