Bird Watching London

Norfolk Seal pups, Britain's most magical wildlife spectacular!

It is this time of the year again and I am taking you on a journey into a world of cuteness where not carrying your camera will not be allowed. LET'S GO SEE THE BABY SEALS! ATTENTION, BOOKINGS WILL CLOSE A WEEK BEFORE DEPARTURE AND IT IS ON A FIRST COME FIRST SERVE BASIS as this trip is limited to 12 people. Due to the popularity of this trip I have decided to do it again. Norfolk is THE place where you can see one of Britain's most fantastic show; the grey seal breeding season. Norfolk holds the world's two largest Atlantic grey seals colonies and I am taking you there. You will be able to observe at often just a couple of metres away the 7000 seals that come to these sandy beaches every year to give birth to those gorgeous white furry creatures. You will not get enough of it, believe me. We will be able to observe seals of every ages from the tiny few hours old white pups, to the full fat adolescents and up to the big males who weight hundreds of kilos and who will be fighting a bit further down on the sand. Volunteers will be there to answer all our questions and to keep us from getting too close to those beautiful creatures, often unsuccessfully as those cubs being of a curious nature will approach us often far too close to inspect us. The seals will be the highlight of or trip but will not be our only journey as we will hike the dunes of Norfolk which are home to a pair of barn owl and where shorties spend the winter. We meet at 08.00 am at Liverpool Street station, and off we go, we should be back in London by 9.30pm. Due to other commitments, I can only do this one trip to Norfolk this year so book your spot asap if you want to see the cutie balls of fur. As always we will grab a meal at the end of the trip before we head back to London with a few hundred photos. I have a professional camera and will share it with you. We will not rush for this trip, we will stop for plenty of photos so if you are coming for a hardcore hike I would not recommend. There are no dogs allowed on this trip I am afraid for obvious reasons. Attention, this is a whole day out, we should be back after 9pm, I cannot change the train time. TRANSPORT: VIA train and bus (about 3 hours) COST: £ 75 I tried to keep it as cheap as possible but the train prices went up as well as buses and in this case my costs too. The fee is refundable up to 2 weeks before departure and non-refundable after that, but you may resell and you can try to find someone to take your place. INCLUDED: Guided hike Fast train to Norfolk and back and a short bus journey A great time with lovely people NOT INCLUDED: Food and drinks Anything not mentioned above WHAT TO BRING: Waterproof shoes for the hike, preferably hiking shoes, otherwise good trainers Weather appropriate clothes Water bottle; MEETING POINT: Liverpool Street Station. At 7am A WHATSAPP GROUP WILL BE CREATED A FEW DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE WITH MORE INFO. 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 to any of our trips and this without exception. Everyone is welcome, we have religious and non-religious people, gay, straight, bisexual people, all shades and colours or nationality, people of all ages, sex and political believes and mutual respect is the fundamental spirit of this group. 2: Our trips are only refundable up to 14 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 side, you will be fully refunded 4:In the eventuality that our trains are delayed, or cancelled which is out of my control, I do not pay for taxis or alternative route, if this happens, you will be able to claim delay repay from the train companies who will reimburse your train ticket and some eventual costs occurred. By signing up to my events, you agree to this.

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

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 :-)

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

🦌 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/

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

🦭✨ 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! 🌊💙** \-\-\-

Royal Institution "The story of birds: From the Jurassic to today"

This is a **theatre** and **livestream** talk from the **Royal Institution of Great Britain.** Using fossil records and his own work uncovering extinct species, paleontologist **Steve Brusatte** rewinds 150 million years to explore how dinosaurs evolved into today's birds.. **ADVANCE BOOKING AND PAYMENT IS REQUIRED FOR THIS TALK.** **More details and booking instructions on the RI web site:** **[https://www.rigb.org/whats-on/story-birds-jurassic-today](https://www.rigb.org/whats-on/story-birds-jurassic-today)** **SUMMARY** Birds live all around us. Their songs drift through our windows in the mornings, and their colourful plumage is something to admire. There are over 10,000 species of birds that share our world, but their legacy goes far beyond homo-sapiens – to the age of the dinosaurs. Palaeontologist **Steve Brusatte** will recount the remarkable 150-million-year journey of evolution in this story of birds. Starting with raptor dinosaur ancestors in the Jurassic Period, through the twist and turns of the coming millennia; enduring asteroid impacts, mass extinctions and changing climates to reach the present day. The story of birds is one of resiliency and adaptability, and Steve will tell that tale, along with his own adventures of collecting fossils and discovering new extinct species. Copies of Steve's book "[The story of birds](https://geni.us/KJAE4X)" will be available to purchase after the talk. This is a **theatre** and **livestream** event for an adult audience, where the speakers and audience in our Theatre are joined by our audience online. **The livestream will go live around 6.55pm, and the talk will begin at 7.00pm. If you register but miss the livestream, the video will be available to you via the same link for two weeks after the event date.** For more information on livestreams, see the information below, or [visit our FAQs page](https://www.rigb.org/whats/faqs-ri-livestreams). Please use the event link you have been provided with. By booking to attend events at the Royal Institution, you confirm that you have read and accept the Ri's [event terms and conditions](https://www.rigb.org/terms-and-conditions). You also agree to abide by [our code of conduct](https://www.rigb.org/about-us/how-were-run/our-code-conduct-ri-visitors), and help to create a great experience for yourself and your fellow participants.

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)**

Cutty Sark & Greenwich Park social gathering

Petersfield, secluded valleys & dramatic 360 views from Harting Down

**WHAT TO EXPECT - Dramatic hill-top views, secluded valleys and woodland** Distance: **25km (approx 15 miles)** Ascent: c. **570m** Estimated Duration (approx): **6 hours walking** (4km/hr) Difficulty: Moderate to energetic Group size: 20 hikers **HIGHLIGHT** * An undulating hike through the little known western reaches of the South Downs. * Lovely quaint pub for a stop at lunchtime * Stunning 360-degree panoramic views on top of National Trust's Harting Down * Significant views out to the Solent and the Isle of Wight * Deer parks in the later part of the walk * Some beautiful quintessentially English countryside at its best **DESCRIPTION** We'll be walking in part on the South Downs Way, as well as lesser known paths steeped in history. Our day will start in Petersfield - an ancient market town founded in the early 12th century which became a horse coaching centre on the main London to Portsmouth route. We'll then head to Buriton, a lovely historic village just south of Peterfield. From there we will start heading up onto the South Downs Way and then down to South Harting, which sits at the foot of the beautiful South Downs. It is home to one of the major landmarks in the Rother Valley - St Mary and Gabriel Church. This will be our lunch stop at a quaint old pub. We'll be walking off our lunch with a steep climb up onto Harting Down - a stunning 360-degree viewpoint where the higher ground of West Harting Down provides significant views out to the Solent and the Isle of Wight should we have fine weather. We then circle back to Petersfield over fields and along deer park enclosures, with no other hikers in sight. And of course, a well earned drink in a pub in Petersfield! *ps. My walks make time to enjoy the views, take in local history, and look at interesting buildings along the way.* **PROGRAMME** You can choose to **meet at London Waterloo or the Hike Starting Point**. The applicable time and meeting points are detailed below. **MEETING POINT:** We will assemble in front of Information Desk under the large clock, and by the large Pret. **LONDON STATION MEETING DETAILS** **Assembly Time:** 08.30 - for those looking to come in on the Group Save 08.45 - for people who have their own tickets as we move to the train 9.00 - train departs 10.05 - train arrives in Petersfield **HIKE START POINT** Leave at: **10.15** Meetup Point: **Petersfield Train Station** \- outside the front **RETURN** Return trains from Folkestone are 17.44, 18.19, 18.48 (about 1 hour journey) **HIKE COST** The cost for the hike is £12 per person. **TRAIN INFORMATION** For those buying their own tickets, please get a **return to PETERSFIELD** **GROUP SAVE** Group save train fare is **£25.75 -** if you want to join, please message me. *Alternatively, you can buy a Network Railcards for £35/ **year** for similar off peak savings. www.network-railcard.co.uk.* **REVIEWS** [Trip Advisor](https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186338-d19994843-Reviews-AAA_Hiking_Outdoor_Group-London_England.html) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews) \| [MeetUp](https://www.meetup.com/aaa-outdoor-hiking-adventure-travel/feedback-overview/) **PRICE INCLUDES** · Guided hike planned and led by an experienced AAA leader, trained in Outdoor First Aid. **PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** · Travel costs · Lunch, drinks or any refreshments · PayPal fees **RECOMMENDED KIT LIST** [(](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)complete list[)](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist) · Suitable hiking shoes or boots · Packed lunch and snacks · Water - 2 litres recommended · Waterproof jacket and trousers (Please no jeans!) · Warm windproof layer e.g. Down/Primaloft/Fleece · Wicking base layer e.g. Polyester/Tencel/Merino **CANCELLING/REFUNDS** If you can no longer join the hike, please message the Host listed on here, and update your RSVP status to 'Not going', to allow others to take your place. If the hike is full, and you have messaged us and have changed your RSVP to 'Not going', we will refund you, less than the PayPal/Meetup fees. To obtain this, please email info@aaalondongroup.com **after the event**, with the email address you use on your PayPal account and transaction reference. If the hike is not full, unfortunately we will not be able to provide any refund. **QUESTIONS** If you have any other questions, please check visit our [FAQ page](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/frequently-asked-questions). 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 London Group Terms and Conditions. © AAA London Group Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted

Women's Solo Travel Social

**Join us for an evening of Women's Solo Travel Social!** Whether you’ve backpacked across Asia, taken solo city breaks around Europe, or are just planning your first trip, come meet like-minded people who enjoy exploring the world on their own terms! Expect good conversation, meeting fellow travel lovers, community, swapping stories, destination inspiration, travel tips, and sharing recommendations. For both newcomers and experienced solo travellers alike! Please feel free to bring friends! Also follow @Trusttrip.travel on Insta for more updates, and to continue sharing travel stories! We will be upstairs in the pub, I'll have a little sign on the table!