Conservation Groups London

UXers Nature Walk and How We Can Create Social Impact

The weather is getting absolutely gorgeous in London ☀️ It has been a long winter, and now it is time to go out and enjoy nature. Join us on this unique UXers Nature Walk and learn about the area we are focused on this year to drive social impact through our [Responsible Design for Change Fellowship](https://www.ux4change.org/responsible-design-for-change-fellowship/). Get a chance to meet our founder, Sandra Gonzalez, and some of the fellows who are currently enrolled in the third cohort of the Fellowship. This is a very lovely opportunity to connect with nature and our community. You are welcome to bring your pet and/or your children, especially if you are juggling half-term at the moment. We will end the walk at the Princess of Wales to share a drink and network a bit. We look forward to spending a lovely afternoon with you.

Beyond Human Rights: Defending Freedoms (Alain de Benoist)

Guided Forest Bathing @ THCP

**Introduction** In our busy city, it can be difficult to find time to slow down and smell the roses! Forest bathing offers you the chance to do just that. Over the course of 2 hours, you will be guided through a multi-sensory exploration of the natural world, giving you time to slow down, breathe, and find peace among the natural world. **What is forest bathing?** Forest bathing typically consists of slow walking, mindfulness practices, and resting (seated or lying down) in nature. Remember being a kid and just watching the branches overhead in the breeze? Originating in Japan in the 1980s, Shin-Rin Yoku or forest bathing, was created as a preventative response to climbing rates of stress in urban areas. Since then, many research studies have shown that even one hour a week spent engaging with nature can significantly reduce symptoms of stress. **What to expect:** * 2-hour duration * Small group size (maximum 6) * Multi-sensory activities * Sharing circle (optional) * Herbal tea offering * A guide to take care of you, so you can truly relax into the wonder of the natural world * Phone-free environment * Opportunity to chat and connect with others (if you would like to) * **Please note there are no toilets available** \- there are several cafes on Mile End Road with toilet facilities\. **What to bring:** * Warm clothes; even on a summer day, spending prolonged time in the shade can begin to feel chilly! * Shoes with a good grip, and that you don't mind getting dirty * A journal and pen * A mug (for tea if you fancy it!) * Any medications you might need, such as EpiPens or inhalers. **How much is it?** This experience is offered on a donation basis; this means you can decide what you can reasonably afford to give. To help you decide, we want to be transparent with our cost breakdown: * £8.50 - meets the recommended donation to Friends of THCP and contributes to important conservation work * £12 - covers the above and supports the guide at the minimum wage rate * £15-20 - pay it forward / supporter option. You are welcome to give less or more depending on your personal circumstances. **[Make a donation here](https://buy.stripe.com/14AfZg0Gn3qL9Dx86M2VG02)**. **About your guide:** Hello! I'm Lizzie, a life-long nature lover. Having been gifted the Kingfisher Concise Field Guide to Animals & Plants of Britain and Europe at the tender age of five, it's perhaps unsurprising that I am happiest outdoors! After several years as a geography teacher and data analyst, I began my studentship as a Forest Bathing Practitioner with Nature and Therapy in June 2025. I have experienced the medicinal influence of nature in my own life when I've struggled with burnout and grief; it's a gift I am keen to share with others. If you have any questions, please do reach out. I look forward to welcoming you! **What next?** Sign up! Then, you will receive a participation form by email with a couple of questions about health and safety; please try to respond before the event, so we can go straight to the trees! Your answers will help us to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone and are encrypted. Our GDPR policy is available on request.

ConsciousCafe London Dinner

ConsciousCafe invites you to join our next London Dinner which will be held in Central London. You will have the opportunity to meet likeminded conscious people and chat over a meal in a relaxed atmosphere. Many beautiful friendships and connections have been created at our London lunches and dinners. We love it when we see people exchanging their contact details as they leave. There is always a special bond when you enjoy deep conversations together. We choose restaurants which are good value for money with a selection of dishes to suit all dietary requirements. You will receive your own bill at the end of the meal and will only pay for what you have ordered. We reckon a budget of £20 - £35 should cover your meal. We know we are getting it right when people ask us at the end of the lunch – or dinner – ‘when is the next one?’ So far this has happened every time. If you would like to come to our next dinner please send a non-refundable deposit of £5 per person to book your place. This covers our administration costs for the event. If places are sold out please email Judy@consciouscafe.org to go on the waiting list as sometimes guests cancel at the last moment. Places are limited so please book as soon as you can to reserve your seat at the table. During the meal you will have the chance to move around and meet different people. If you want to invite a conscious friend to come with you of course that’s fine but this is a spiritual networking event so be prepared to connect with other people and not just talk to the person you have come with. If you do make a booking for two tickets please let us know the name and contact details of your friend. **[BOOK VIA OUR WEBSITE](https://consciouscafe.org/event/consciouscafe-london-dinner-7/)**

Walking with Trees on Richmond Park

*"Trees are sanctuaries. Whoever knows how to speak to them, whoever knows how to listen to them, can learn the truth."* Herman Hesse Walking with trees is a soulful opportunity to begin to re-discover the sacredness of nature by learning about the biology, mythology, history and spirituality of classic native British trees on Richmond Park. **Please arrive at 9.45am on Saturday 11th July at Pens Pond Cafe Kiosk Richmond Park for a prompt start at 10am. We will finish by 12pm.** We will be taking a relaxed mindful walk across Richmond Park with music from folklorist George Hoyle as we connect with different trees on our way. Wear sturdy shoes, comfortable clothing and depending on the weather, a rain proof coat. Bring a sitting pad, portable seat, or rug to sit on as well as something to drink. Walking with trees is led by Mike Mullins, a leadership development facilitator, executive coach and retreat leader who has a passionate interest in how we can see and hold all nature as sacred in these times of ecological crisis.

Constellations: An ENM Connection Night

Constellations is a relaxed, inclusive speed meeting event for London's ethical non-monogamy community. Wednesday 22 July 7pm. North London location, N1 [Buy your tickets on Eventbrite here](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/constellations-an-enm-connection-night-tickets-1992768863314)

Camp fire stories of myth and mystery

"Light a campfire and everyone’s a storyteller.” John Geddes There is something mystical about making fire, then gathering round a campfire in community as night falls to listen to and share stories. Huddled up warm and relaxed, putting branches into the fire, arranging the logs, staring mesmerised into the flames. Campfire storytelling taps into our deep ancestral memory of being hunter gatherers. As night drops down your senses are heightened. You're not too sure what the sounds are in the night around you. People are ready to hear stories and use their imaginations to enter into the sense of mystery, the mystical and the sacred. Camp fire stories of myth and mystery is a two-hour session where we sit round a roaring firepit, with blankets, warm food and drink, to listen to ancient, soul healing, mythic stories of the mystery of life and sacred nature. "Camp fire stories of myth and mystery" is next on in the churchyard of St. Peter and St. Paul, Church, Church Lane, Chaldon, Caterham CR3 5AL, 8-10pm on Saturday July 18th, 2026. Arrive 7.30pm for a 8pm start. Please contact Soul Rewilding https://www.soulrewilding.co.uk/ directly if you'd like us to run an event for your community.

An Exploration of Human Expression and Its Future

What makes us human, and what do we risk losing when AI begin to mirror our most intimate forms of expression? As AI becomes woven into our everyday workflows, from vibe coding to documentation, it's easy to focus on efficiency. But what about the rest of our lives? This session invites you to slow down and turn your attention toward something deeper: the arts. Dancing, singing, drawing, making, not as hobbies, but as expressions of something fundamental about who we are and where we come from. Whether you're excited about what AI can create, cautious about what it might erode, or somewhere in between, this conversation is for you. We're not here to reach consensus. We're here to share our views and think together. **What we'll explore** Inspired by the [Centre for Humane Technology](https://www.humanetech.com/ai-and-humanity)'s report *Preserving What Makes Us Deeply Human in the Age of AI*, we'll explore questions around why we create. What role does art play in our lives, not just aesthetically, but psychologically, socially, and spiritually? And as AI enters these spaces, what questions should we be asking ourselves? **From reflection to practice** We won't leave it abstract. Towards the end of the session, we'll bring the conversation back to our work as UX Designers and Researchers, exploring how these reflections can meaningfully shape the way we design, research, and lead. *** **🎓 A moment of celebration** We'll close the evening by celebrating the nine fellows who have completed the third [Responsible Design for Change Fellowship](https://www.ux4change.org/responsible-design-for-change-fellowship/) cohort. Their dedication to advancing social impact at the East London Waterworks Park, while deepening their practice in regenerative design and leadership, is worth sharing with our UX for Change community. *** **🎟️ Free spots available** We believe access to these conversations matters. If you'd like to be considered for one of the 7 free tickets, please fill out this short form: 👉[https://forms.gle/YgPFKeSXtZDMVaVU9](https://forms.gle/YgPFKeSXtZDMVaVU9)

Forest & Nature Immersion with Folklore around the fire. Set in Sussex.

Journey out to the heart of West Sussex, for a gathering in the forest. Immerse yourself in nature, with a guided walk amongst the trees on ancient land, spend time around the camp fire, listening to stories of ancient folklore and their relationship to the trees and creatures around you. Anam Cara is a retreat centre set in 10 acres of remote and peaceful country side yet only 15 minute drive from Haslemere train station, a 50 minute ride from Waterloo. There is the option to bring a tent and stay the weekend or rent a tent or cabin from Anam Cara. (GU84SQ)

🟠🏞️🛶 Hiking & Canoeing in The Wye Valley (Minicoach) [LEFT: FULL ]

Join us as we explore the breathtaking **Wye Valley National Landscape**, a stunning Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that straddles the rugged **border of Wales and England**. Famously known as the **birthplace of British tourism**, this region is home to dramatic limestone cliffs & ancient woodlands. 💺 **Limited spaces (private minibus): Please initially add yourself to the waitlist > wait for message > make payment > you'll be added to going list.** 🏷️ **Please note:** Priority is given to regular and reliable attendees for such events. *Why? At Active Muslims, we place great importance on attendance records and active participation in our regular events, such as our regular walks and hikes. We believe these activities offer attendees the chance to form meaningful and strong connections with like-minded individuals. [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)].* ✊ *Reminder: Active Muslims is equally about focusing on the actual activity, in this case, it is a paced hike (and not a stroll), therefore it is advised to approach and attend these events with that [mindset](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBhPWpdIMKq/?igsh=MWVjdnZrdGZwd3dmYw==).* 🟠 **HIKE:** 📏 \~15km (\~10 miles) 🏔️ Elev. Gain: \~600m 💓 Av. Pace: 5km/h 🚌 Private Mini coach, around 3.5+ hours drive there (same back). *Return time is approximate and depends on traffic.* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🚐+🛶 **Cost Includes: Minicoach hire, Canoeing on the River Wye (90 minutes) + hand-pulled ferry crossing.** ***Costs Info:*** *🛶 Canoeing (Main Plan): This will be booked closer to the date and depends entirely on provider availability.* *🦋 The Butterfly Zoo (Backup Plan): If canoeing is full, we will visit the Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo instead. Your £15 canoeing fee can be used to cover the zoo entry, and you will be refunded the remaining difference.* *🎒 Doing Both: If we secure canoeing slots and have time for the zoo, we could possibly do both! You will just need to pay for your own Butterfly Zoo admission (Adult tickets around £7) directly at the venue on the day.* 💳 **£74**/pp *Payment needs to be made promptly when the message/link has been sent to you. Send as friend & family - make sure I'm not charged a fee.* 📱 **[My WhatsApp](https://wa.me/+447799438148)** *Message via above if your meetup DM is not open for messages.* *(non-refundable - as need to pay minicoach company in advance*. *Price is based on a full van + parking - if this is not met we cannot secure the coach and you will be refunded)* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ **📋 Attendance Policy:** When an event has a **waiting list**, priority is given to new joiners and those with a reliable attendance record - *previous "No-Shows" may be moved to the waitlist to ensure spots go to reliable attendees [[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. 🚦 **[Walk/Hike Levels:](https://www.instagram.com/share/reel/BBxV4zomeZ)** 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging **Follow us for updates:** 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims)**

A summer's evening in the parks: Wimbledon Common to Richmond Park

Join us for an evening wander across the (relative!) wilderness of Wimbledon Common, through the deer-filled expanses of Richmond Park and down to the River Thames. This gentle stroll includes a few easy ups and downs and is a chance to enjoy the (hopefully) warm summer evening air before finishing in Richmond for an optional drink or two. Richmond is well connected by rail, Tube and bus for the journey home. **SUMMARY (all info is approximate!)** **Distance**: 11km/7 miles linear route **Duration**: 2.5 hours walking **Ascent**: 100m **Grade**: Beginner – largely flat, along good paths. **COST AND LOGISTICS** **Cost**: £8 **Start**: 6.15pm Wimbledon Station **End:** 9pm Richmond Station / Local pub **Both stations are in the Oyster/Contactless Zone** **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](www.aaahiking.co.uk/kit-lists)[)](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist) * Suitable shoes for walking for 2.5hrs * Water * Fleece/cardigan/hoodie **CANCELLING/REFUNDS** If you can no longer join the walk, 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 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 over the last 10+ years without significant incident, achieved partly through thorough 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 [FAQs](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/frequently-asked-questions) \| [Terms and Conditions](www.aaahiking.co.uk/terms-and-conditions) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/AAAhiking) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews)

FREE HIKE – Summer Love on the Green Trails – Epping Forest Hike

# **🌿A Shaded Epping Adventure** Step into the cool green heart of **Epping Forest**, where ancient trees cast long summer shadows and the air feels like it’s carrying its own quiet melody. There’s something about warm days under deep woodland shade that brings a soft, nostalgic energy — the kind you find in those timeless summer love songs that drift through the season. Dappled sunlight, leafy canopies, quiet ponds, and long winding trails create a rhythm of their own. Whether you come for the scenery, the shade, the miles, or simply the company, this woodland loop carries that gentle, dreamy “summer‑in‑the‑air” feeling that makes the forest feel almost cinematic. ## 📅 **Event Details** **Meeting Point:** Outside Chingford Station **Meeting Time:** 10:45 AM **Parking:** Chingford Plain Car Park (E4 7QJ) – approx. 7‑minute walk **Distance:** 13–15 miles **Route Type:** Circular **Pace:** Medium **Estimated Finish:** By 6:30 PM **Difficulty:** Moderate to challenging (some hills) ## 🌳 **Route Highlights** * Wander beneath **ancient oak and beech canopies**, where the summer sun filters through in soft, golden patches. * Follow shaded forest paths that feel cool, calm, and quietly atmospheric — perfect for a warm July or August day. * Walk sections of the **Essex Way**, opening into bright meadows and wide countryside views. * Pass the historic **Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge**, a striking 16th‑century landmark. * Enjoy a mix of terrains: woodland trails, open plains, gentle hills, and peaceful ponds. * Keep an eye out for **deer, birds, and forest wildlife** moving through the trees. * And as always, we’ll end with a well‑earned drink at a pub near the station — the perfect summer finish. ## 🎒 **What to Bring** * Proper hiking boots or sturdy shoes * Packed lunch & snacks * **At least 2L of water** (it can get warm even under the trees) * Light rainproof layer (just in case) * Sun protection for the open sections and a cap or hat * Good vibes and your best summer‑forest energy ## 📌 **Important Notes** * **Stay Together:** Please stay with or behind the hike leader to keep the group moving safely and smoothly. * **Group Rules:** Please read the “About Us” section before joining: [https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities](https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities?utm_source=copilot.com "www.meetup.com") * **Safety:** This is a voluntary activity. You are responsible for your own safety and for respecting fellow walkers, wildlife, and the environment. No risk or service is inferred or accepted by the organiser. 📱 **If you’re lost or running late:** 07830 374 629