Conservation Groups London

Free drinks for early adopters

West Hampstead Nature Conservation

Knepp Rewilding Project; wildlife Hike

🛍️Offline Women Go Thrifting

Step away from the online ads and join Offline Women Going Thrifting. Modern shopping is often fast and wasteful, so we are heading out to find a better way. Thrifting is an act of resistance against a system that wants us to keep buying new things. Every item we buy second-hand is one less thing in a landfill, thousands of liters of water saved and supports a charity at the same time. In Charity Shops we can find pieces that were made to last, high-quality fabrics and timeless styles that haven't been dictated by an algorithm. We will meet outside the **Octavia Foundation** in Pimlico (where fashion insiders go), just a few minutes from Victoria Station. We will tuck away our devices before exploring the cluster of around seven charity shops nearby. Please bring a reusable bag and your best eye for hidden gems. Come as you are and leave with unique finds and a lighter footprint on the earth. P.S. Thank you, Angie, for suggesting this wonderful idea. Follow us on [WhatsApp](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbCZyvCD38CTaXBpQ72V) to get early tickets for our upcoming events.

Curbing CO2: don't forget shipping

Emissions from ships contribute more to global warming than the entire economy of a major country such as the UK. Yet over 90% of global trade relies on them. We're fortunate to have **Claudene Sharp-Patel,** Global Technical Director at Lloyd’s Register Marine and Offshore, to give us an expert view from the top of the industry on what is/can be done on this important, but less discussed, aspect of emissions reduction. Claudene is a unique leader. She was the first woman in the world to earn a chief engineer’s combined motor and steam qualification. Since then she has had a distinguished career ranging across the world of shipping, and remains a passionate advocate for women in the maritime industry. If you can't make it in person, **you can participate online** using this Zoom link (no need to sign-up): [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82097538417?pwd=WmhPZ1dDTzlKNkNXN2I4dmRoUFpjQT09](https://swlhumanists.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c9f319a12e9553cb29dad449b&id=05e545f65c&e=43fa228cc1)

Games night – Second Serve

Once a month, we slow things down. No courts. No rushing. Just good food, easy conversation, and a social that actually feels… social. This is the **Second Serve games night** — a more relaxed, sit-down version of the group. 📍 **Venue (Croydon / easy access)** We rotate between: * Cosy restaurants with bookable tables * Private/semi-private dining spaces * Quiet venues where we can actually hear each other (Final location shared after approval) 🕒 **Format (Monthly Saturday)** * **6:30 – 7:15pm** → Arrivals + dinner orders * **7:15 – 8:15pm** → Dinner & natural conversation * **8:15 – 9:45pm** → Games + guided social * Wrap up on time — no dragging the night out 🎲 **The Twist (What makes this different)** This isn’t just “dinner and hope for the best.” We structure it lightly so it never gets awkward: * Small tables (4–6 people max) * Subtle **table rotations** (optional, not forced) * Simple games that spark conversation, not competition 💬 **Conversation Style** No cringe icebreakers. We use light prompts that are easy to answer and easy to build on. 👥 **Who this is for** * People who don’t want loud, chaotic nights * People who actually want to talk and connect * People who prefer structure over randomness ✅ **Approval & Attendance** * RSVP approval required * Limited seats (kept intentionally small) * Priority goes to consistent attendees 👉 If you RSVP, we expect you there (No-shows affect future approvals) **The vibe** A proper social. Not loud. Not forced. Not endless. Just a good evening, done right. *Pictures and Videos may be taken for marketing purposes.* *All attendees consent to the use of their pictures by The* Second Serve Social 🎾

London walking tour w/ wild swim, city skyline & plastic pollution cleanup

Join fellow eco-conscious travellers for a walking tour that combines one of London's great walks with real environmental action. We'll climb to Parliament Hill to take in one of the city's six protected panoramic views, clean up woodland paths across the Heath, take a dip in Hampstead's legendary natural bathing pond and lounge on the bank of the ponds, and finish at the Brew House Café at the historic Kenwood House to chat with new friends. **The afternoon runs like this:** We meet at Hampstead Heath Overground at 14:30pm and walk up to Parliament Hill summit for the panoramic London skyline view. From there we do our first cleanup along the southern Heath paths and pond edges before heading to the Mixed Bathing Pond for a wild swim. After drying off we walk the woodland paths toward Kenwood, doing a second cleanup along the way, and finish at the Brew House Café in the Kenwood estate grounds around 17:15pm. Total distance: approximately 3km. Duration: 3 hours. **What to bring:** Swimwear and a towel, something warm for after the swim, a reusable water bottle, and weather-appropriate layers. Litter pickers, gloves and bags are provided. **Finding the group:** Meet outside Hampstead Heath Overground Station on South Hill Park at 14:30pm. Look for the Earth Stewards Travel Club sign. The station is on the London Overground. **Please note:** The swim is for confident swimmers only. The pond is a beautiful wild swimming spot surrounded by nature, but is unheated, deep, and dark so ensure you're confident with cold water swimming. Non-swimmers are very welcome and can enjoy the pond bank while others swim. A free non-swimmer ticket is available. The ticket price covers the cost of entry to Hampstead's Mixed Bathing Pond, that's all the charge is. The guided tour, cleanup equipment, and all other elements of the afternoon are completely free. We're trialling this as a new event format for Earth Stewards Travel Club and want to keep the barrier to joining as low as possible. If you'd like to support what we're building, the best thing you can do is come along, give it a go, and tell us honestly what you thought.

☀️Offline Women Friday Sunset in the Park

Join us for a screen-free Offline Women Sunset in the Park to enjoy the fresh air and end the week in nature. Close the laptop and trade the screen glare for the evening glow. This is a simple, tech-free space to decompress from the work week. We’re heading to Regent’s Park to just sit, hang out on the grass, and watch the sun go down. We’ll meet at Queen Mary's Rose Gardens for a gentle wander through the flowers and the park. As the "Golden Hour" starts, we’ll find a peaceful spot to sit, chat, and watch the sky change. Bring a blanket and some snacks if you like, or just show up as you are. Showing up is the first step toward connection and belonging. To celebrate you for taking that step, our member and friend [Meixin Sun | Stories & Conversations on Growth](https://ms2836.wixsite.com/meixincapital/spiritual-capital) has generously provided a gift card for one lucky attendee to win. Join us offline to find out how it could be you!

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. **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.

🌳 Barefoot walk in Hamspead Heath

Join me for a morning walk on Saturday 6th at 11am! We will meet at Hamspead Heath Station and walk barefoot for about 2 hours in the park (mostly grass and forest area) You can come solo or with friends — either way, you'll feel part of the group You can also wear minimalist shoes if you like! Looking forward to see you there! Note: this circular track is graded easy and is suitable for beginners as we will be mostly walking on grass

FREE HIKE - Nature & Wildlife Hike: Wimbledon to Richmond Park Circular

**Meeting Point:** Outside Wimbledon Chase Station at 10:30 am and start at 10:45 am sharp! **Difficulty:** Moderate - medium paced hike **Distance:** 14 to 16 miles **Elevation Gain:** approx., 450 m **Transport:** Wimbledon Chase Station is accessible via train services. If driving, you can park in nearby streets or car parks around Wimbledon Chase Station. Please make sure to reach early to find parking. **Description:** We will explore the scenic beauty of Wimbledon Common and Richmond Park during this hike in London. Starting from Wimbledon Chase Station, the route takes through iconic landmarks such as Wimbledon Windmill Museum, Queensmere, Treebox Wood, Pen Ponds, and the vibrant Isabella Plantation. The trail offers stunning landscapes and opportunities to observe local wildlife, including birds and deer. Expect mixed terrain, with forest paths, grassy trails, and sections that cross a golf course and busy roads. We will go to a pub close to the station and socialise after the hike. **What to Bring:** * Comfortable hiking shoes or boots * Weather-appropriate clothing * Water (recommend 2 liters) * Snacks and lunch * A good positive spirit (preferably the kind that laughs when there are any uphill sections) **Important Notes:** * Ensure you are physically prepared. * Be mindful of busy road crossings and golf course sections. * Respect fellow walkers, wildlife, and other natural surroundings. **Additional Notes:** * RSVP to secure your spot. * Update your RSVP if your plans change so others can join. * **Rules:** Please make sure to read the about us section of the group before joining - https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities * **Stay Together**: Please stay with or behind the hike leader to maintain group pace and cohesion. * **Safety Reminder**: This is a voluntary activity. Participants are responsible for their own safety and for respecting fellow walkers, wildlife, and the environment. No risk or liability is inferred or accepted by the organizer. Looking forward to hiking with you and exploring this adventure together. 📱 For any issues, contact me via mobile/WhatsApp at 07830374629.

NEW: 🌞 Sunset Stonehenge Summer Solstice Hike: Stay, Sleep, and Sunrise Sunday?

They say that pictures speak a thousand words, and so here are pics from this previous day trip on our website (click on this event): [www.aaahiking.co.uk/day-hikes](www.aaahiking.co.uk/day-hikes) **DESCRIPTION** Join us for a once-a-year experience: walking from Salisbury Station to **Stonehenge** to celebrate the **Summer Solstice 2026** — the longest day of the year. We’ll hike through history and countryside, arriving in time for the famous Stonehenge solstice atmosphere. When we reach Stonehenge, you decide how you’d like to celebrate: 1. **Head back to London straight away** * Taxi/shuttle back to Salisbury (\~30 min), evening trains to London until \~23:00. 2. **Stay for Sunset (21:22)** * Enjoy the atmosphere and watch the sun dip behind the Heel Stone. * After sunset, return to Salisbury for late train to London. 3. **Stay Overnight for Sunrise (04:44, 21 June)** * Experience the stones at dawn — a unique spiritual moment. * Field closes \~08:00; first trains to London from Salisbury \~05:00 onwards. What to Bring for Stonehenge * Warm layers (it gets chilly overnight) * Sturdy walking shoes * Torch/headlamp * Snacks & water * Small bag/daypack * Blanket/mat for sitting * Cash or card for food/transport * No glass, alcohol, drugs, large bags, camping gear, BBQs, or amplified music. Notes: * Entry to Stonehenge Solstice is **free** (Managed Open Access by English Heritage). * Expect large but peaceful crowds, drumming, ceremonies, and a festive vibe. * Toilets, food stalls, and first aid are on-site. **WHAT TO EXPECT - HIKING INFO** Distance: **15kM** route Estimated Duration (approx): **4 hours walking** Difficulty: [*](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/hike-grade)*[Easy](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/hike-grade)* **PROGRAMME** Meeting Point: **Salisbury Station concourse** (direct trains from London Waterloo \~1h30m) **Time**: Meet **12:30**, depart **13:00** sharp. **COST** The cost is **£10 per person.** for hike only. **HIKE INCLUDES** * Guided Hike planned and led by experienced AAA leaders, trained Summer Mountain Leader with Wilderness First Aid Training. * PayPal fees **PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** * Travel costs * Lunch, drinks or any refreshments * Souvenirs * Meetup Fee levied on all purchases via meetup * Entrance fees to any attractions you wish to visit **RECOMMENDED KIT LIST [(](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)[full list](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/kit-lists)[)](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)** * Suitable hiking shoes or boots * Waterproof jacket and trousers (Please no jeans!) * Water [2L recommended] * Warm/Windproof layer, e.g. Down/Primaloft/Fleece * Wicking base layer, e.g. Polyester/Tencil/Merino * Camera & Phone * Picnic lunch and snacks **CANCELLING/REFUNDS** If you can no longer join the event, please message the host and update your RSVP status on MeetUp to 'Not going', to allow others to take your place. If the event sells out, and you have messaged us and have changed your RSVP to 'Not going', please email us on [info@aaalondongroup.com](info@aaalondongroup.com) after the event date, requesting a refund, including your PayPal email address, so we can locate the payment. Unfortunately, as PayPal retains the original transaction fee, we cannot refund this. If the hike is not full, we are sorry, we are unable to issue a refund. **QUESTIONS** If you have any other questions, please check visit our[ FAQ page](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/faq). If you are still unsure, contact the event Host shown on this page. We have operated over 1,000 events without significant incidents in the last ten years, achieved through meticulous planning. All participants (members and their guests) in any AAA Hiking event or activity are personally responsible for their fitness, safety and welfare, and must be equipped accordingly. If you have signed up for the event, you acknowledge and accept the AAA Hiking Terms and Conditions. © AAA Hiking Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted [FAQs](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/faq) \| [Terms and Conditions](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/terms-and-conditions) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/AAAhiking) \| [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAAHikingUK/reviews) \| [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/aaahiking/) \| [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@aaahiking) \| [Trip Advicer](https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186338-d19994843-Reviews-AAA_Hiking_Outdoor_Group-London_England.html) \| [TicTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@aaahiking) \| [Website](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/) © AAA London Group Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted