Croydon Outdoor Pursuits & Social Events Club

ShelterBox "Mystery Auction"
2026-01-06 20:15 - 22:00 (Europe/London) | South Croydon United Church Hall, Aberdeen Road, South Croydon, CR0 1EQ, United Kingdom
Happy New Year! You are invited to warm up at our now toasty Hall.
The occasion is, of course, our annual Mystery Auction, where we have some fun raising cash for our pet charity, Shelterbox.

If you’re not familiar with Shelterbox have a look at their website, https://shelterbox.org/.

What you can do is to

wrap up your goods (unwanted and/or valuable)

and/or

turn up, enjoy the banter, and above all place your bids for the mystery parcels.

Don’t worry if you can’t contribute items, just come along and enjoy the evening.
For the uninitiated, here are Ireen’s words of explanation from her email:
Dear All,
I hope 2026 is off to a good start for everyone – and you are each feeling “resolute”! No, I’m not referring to all the personal resolutions (which might already have been broken?!) but to our Club one that we make this annual effort to gather enough funds for a whole “ShelterBox box”.
For our “Mystery Auction”, please spend a few mins in advance, wrapping your duplicated or unloved objects (rapping, as you do so, is optional!) and pass them to me from 8.15pm on Tuesday. Household / kitchen appliances in good condition – (perhaps never used, even if intentions were good!) could also be rehomed. IF there is a content of particularly high value, you can add a label with a reserve or start price on – likewise, if the item is only suitable for a male or female recipient. However, part of the fun is sometimes when bids disregard the latter, e.g., when Chris T. became the new owner of a lovely, silky camisole! (He happily gifted this to a female friend!!)
Wrapping paper need not be new – any kept from opening your own received presents, be they Xmas, birthday etc. will be good. If you have some items to donate but cannot manage to come along in person, please let me know and I hope I can help by collecting beforehand.
Re my title, “Lightening Your Load”: bulging wallets and purses can be brought through the door and you can benefit by carrying them away with far less weight in them! Also, please remember that our 2025 techy advance gave us a card machine, although chequebooks could still be brought! Once again, Treasurer Bob will kindly be managing the finance for the evening.
N.B. If the attached table is of interest, I am taking emailed or telephoned bids, as well as on the night, and can collect from its donor and deliver to you in the near future. The table is good and sturdy and a size that will very comfortably seat four people. Please contact me with your offers!
Width: 46¼” (117.5cm) X Depth: 31½” (80cm) X Height: 29” (74cm)

I close with another good wish for everyone to have as good a 2026 as they possibly can – and with a quote from the ShelterBox website:
EMERGENCY DISASTER RELIEF Families are facing a bitter winter in make shift shelters, struggling to survive:
Supporting communities in crisis

Right now, over 120 million people around the world have been made homeless by disaster and conflict. ShelterBox is working to change this.
By providing emergency shelter and tools for families robbed of their homes by disaster, we’re transforming despair into hope.
We want to see a world where no family is left without shelter after disaster. Join us.
Regards,
Ireen Best (079868 035522)

Bethlem Art Gallery and Museum - POSTPONED
2026-01-10 10:00 - 17:00

A Right Old "Knees-Up"
2026-01-13 20:15 - 22:00 | South Croydon United Church Hall, Aberdeen Road, South Croydon, CR0 1EQ, United Kingdom
A change from the announced visit to Cryer Arts – it turns out that they don’t have their first-Tuesday-of-the-month folk session in January.

Following a quirky and interesting recent Club visit to a different kingdom (please read your latest “Viewpoint”!), Valerie and I hope you can now please join us for an informative and varied evening at our hall that stems from that. There will be a little bit of history, some music, a bit of a quiz – and a special guest! There will even be a “reference sheet” to take away!

8.15pm for teas and coffees (with the kitchen closing at 8.30pm).

Visit to the Toy Museum - postponed
2026-01-17 10:00 - 17:00
Watch for new dates on the Programme

Capital Ring Walk 5 - Streatham Common to Wimbledon Park
2026-01-18 12:00 - 17:00
Continuing to be inspired by Paul’s assault on the Loop, and encouraged by the enthusiastic turnout for Parts 1 to 4, I’m continuing the Capital Ring circuit.
Newbies can click on the map above to see what the Capital Ring is all about. This leg will ease us gently into the New Year with a level stroll of just under 6 miles on tarmac paths and pavements, and we’re starting at a time to accommodate Sunday lie-ins. Highlights include Tooting Bec and Wandsworth Commons and Wandsworth Prison, as well as the largest (it says here) single block of flats in Europe.
There are plenty of feeding and toilet opportunities along the way, and those inclined might round off the day with a beer and/or food at The Woodman pub.
We finish at Wimbledon Park Station, from where the best route back to Croydon seems to be a short ride on the District Line to connect with Tramlink at Wimbledon.
Joining Opportunities

East Croydon station from 12 noon to catch the 12.14 to Streatham Common – usually from Platform 4.
https://w3w.co/dock.jars.folds
Streatham Common Station, Estrehan Road exit, where this leg of the Ring starts, from our scheduled arrival at 12.25
https://w3w.co/lime.grit.froth

Contact
Ken on 07921 258876

COPSE Birthday
2026-01-20 20:15 - 22:00 | South Croydon United Church Hall, Aberdeen Road, South Croydon, CR0 1EQ, United Kingdom
This Tuesday is the nearest to COPSE’s 92nd birthday so we’re having a bit of a celebration. There’ll be some fun, games and . . . CAKE!,

We’ll also enjoy some party food – provided by yourselves! Please bring along no more than a plate or so of finger-food you can share. We’ll dig out some squash and such from upstairs, though if you have particular beverage preferences feel free to provide your own.
Also, we’ll avoid washing up so please bring your own plates / drinking vessels etc and take them away again.
Come along and enjoy.

By request, the Coulsdon to Cheam section of the loop is back
2026-01-25 10:00 - 17:00
Hello
I have been requested to do the section between Coulsdon and Nonsuch Park, near Ewell and Cheam via Woodmansterne, Clockhouse, Oaks Park and past another prison!

If you missed it in 2024, here’s your chance to catch up.

Distance around 8 to 9 miles, fairly straightforward with the odd ascent, refreshment possibilities at Clockhouse, Oaks Park Cafe and at Nonsuch Park Mansion at the end. But bring beverage and nibbles along.

Where to meet
Coulsdon in the area outside the supermarket Aldi, opposite where the Chipstead Valley Road branches off.

How to get here
Buses from Croydon, of course, including the 60 and 166, but don’t be tempted onto a 466 as this turns off and heads up to Coulsdon village before it gets to the part of Coulsdon we want.

What time
The proposed time is 10.15am

Returning from Cheam
Buses from nearby Cheam village back to Croydon (including the SuperLoop bus from Heathrow) and trains back to West Croydon from Cheam rail stn. You can leave (or join) at Oaks Park using a bus 166. You could also leave a little early before Nonsuch Park and get a train from Ewell EAST

Bring a sense of humour and some rain gear!

Paul N.
07968 223589

Burns Night
2026-01-27 20:15 - 22:00 | South Croydon United Church Hall, Aberdeen Road, South Croydon, CR0 1EQ, United Kingdom
The Programme:

Please note we’ll be taking £3 at the door to cover costs for this evening – a bargain any Scot would be proud to claim!
Fair fa’ your honest, sonsie face
We didn’t argue with that sentiment in previous years, and everyone had such a good time that we’re doing it again.
If you have yet to be convinced of haggis’s virtues (or even if you have been), roll up on Tuesday evening for a treat of said puddin’, with its traditional embellishments of bashed neeps, mashed spuds, and whatever trimmings we can muster. There will even be a dram in it for those keen on the true Caledonian experience, along with the joyful skirl provided by our in-house piper and traditional poetry read in excruciatingly inaccurate Scottish accents.
Note that we’ll be providing, as well as full-fat leaded haggis, vegetarian, gluten free and gluten free vegetarian variations. Please let Ken know if your tastes run to any of these so we can get the numbers right.
Please note that, due to government restrictions, we will be using only left-handed specimens, humanely caught by burly, kilted highlanders using extra strong butterfly nets.
But
(I hear you ask)
what’s my part in all this magnificence?
Well, there are a few things you should be aware of . . . .
1. In the interests of simplicity and getting home before dawn, we’re not washing up! Bring your own plate, glass and cutlery, and take them home at the end of the evening.
2. Drink provided is limited to Scotch and Highland Water for the toasts – in addition, of course, to the regular tea & coffee service graciously provided by Olga William Colette. If your tastes veer in other directions, please feel free to bring your own choice of tipple.
3. For the furtherance of jollity and the spirit of the evening, any vaguely Scottish apparel is encouraged. If you can’t stretch to a kilt, how about tartan socks or a Hamilton Accies away strip?
Looking forward to that haggis already. No, don’t ask me what’s in it!
(I know, all shamelessly pasted in from previous web pages pasted in from the previous year’s email. Life’s still too short . . . )

Ski trip adventure Arc 2000 Paradiski, France
2026-01-31 08:00 - 2026-02-07 17:00
Update
Our ski destination has changed to Arc 2000 Paradiski, France
————————————————————————–
COPSE powder hounds hit the slopes for a winter adventure in the Skiarea Campiglio Brenta Dolomites. Sat. 31st Jan. to Sat. 7th Feb 2026.”
If there’s further info you need please let me know.
Thanks
Paul D.

Hi COPSErs
Regular “COPSE-skimos” have been researching a winter holiday for the week starting Saturday 31/1/2026. We have found an attractive option and wish to encourage other COPSErs to participate. Here is some information about it. If you are interested please let me know by Sunday 16 March.

Based largely on preferences from previous holidays, the proposed destination is Folgarida in Italy for the following reasons:

it’s in the Dolomites.

it’s part of the extensive and scenic Madonna di Campiglio lift system

the resort has a good snow record
it offers other activities including snowy walking trails, please check out Esperienze
the Park Hotel is accessible from one of the easier ski runs, so no need to walk or catch a bus

the Park Hotel has a spa and pool

it’s a package holiday, so you are well looked after. Crystal are part of the massive TUI group, and we’ve been skiing with them for a number of years. The holiday is twin-share half-board and it’s about £900 at the moment (excludes equipment hire and lift pass). Gatwick flights are early – it’s a 6am check-in.

if there are any special requirements e.g. diet it’s best to chat on-line with Crystal. Previously the buffet-style catering has had plenty of choice so hopefully this wouldn’t present a problem
if you’re interested please let me know by Sunday 16th March. It’s a £100 deposit to go on the booking, subject to rooming (same gender twin-share) and availability, and the balance becomes payable in November. Single occupancy supplements are usually expensive, about £400. Again, Crystal will advise about this cost if you use their on-line chat
if you fancy skiing/boarding before the holiday there is an indoor slope at Hemel Hempstead, or a dry slope near Chatham.
we’ve just enjoyed a ski holiday with great snow and fantastic scenery. We have a range of competencies in the group and we ski together as much as we can. We’d love to bring the fun to other COPSErs. Some of our group took up skiing relatively recently. It may seem a lot of money but it’s a great experience and, as mentioned, there are non-ski options too.

Please let me know if you have any questions or need further information.

Thanks.
Paul D.
0794 129 6019

Builders Arms Quiz
2026-02-03 20:30 - 22:00 | Builder’s Arms Pub, 65 Leslie Park Road, Croydon, CR0 6TP
Well, we shall try to grab it! Yet again, non-skiing COPSErs will be attempting to wrestle the prize (sometimes a fairly substantial pot of ££s) away from the regular teams competing at the “Builders Arms” Quiz Night.*
I have reserved three tables of six for our Members. The quiz will cost £1pp (cash) and now begins a half hour earlier, i.e. at 8.30pm. We can arrive from 6.30pm to order food and socialize before the brain strain begins.

65 Leslie Park Road, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 6TP
https://buildersarmscroydon.co.uk/eat-drink-1b
* N.B. On previous visits, one of our teams did achieve second place!
If you would like to be among those of us exercising our grey matter this time, please let me know.

Regards,

Ireen Best (07968 035522)

Pollock's Toy Museum, pie and mash lunch and Buddy Holly tribute night
2026-02-07 11:00 - 23:00
1) POLLOCK’S TOY MUSEUM
We have been invited to make a group visit to this little museum that is proud to be in Croydon. It houses many interesting traditional and “heritage” items. Our visit will begin at 11am with an introductory talk from the curator and the chance to tour and chat about the displays. Following this, at noon, there will be a theatre show. It would be useful for the museum to have an idea of the number in our group so please let me know if you will be coming.
Where to meet
Whitgift Centre
Level 1, No.49
(Wellesley Road end, facing (Trinity Court”)

What time
11.00am
———————————————————————————————-
2) COCKNEYS OF CROYDON (pie and mash)

We can continue our afternoon together by moving to the “Cockneys of Croydon” café that was mentioned at our recent “Knees-Up” Club Night. A number of COPSErs said they would like to go there to try the pie and mash etc. We must arrive in time to order before 2.30pm but allow eating time before it closes at 3pm. I suggest we arrive there about 1.30pm, after finishing at the Toy Museum. I have been told that pre-booking tables could not be arranged but, again, let me know if you plan to come and we shall try to bag enough seats!

Where to meet
51 Frith Road, Croydon CR0 1TB (Frith Street is down Church Street and opposite Surrey Street market)

What time
Approx 1.30pm
———————————————————————————————–
3) Buddy Holly tribute night

As has been listed for a while on our COPSE programme, we can spend our evening at what is normally our late Tuesday Night “Watering Hole”. However, on Saturday 7th February, there will be music and the chance to dance for those inclined! You will buy your own tickets on the door (cash only) but I am able to reserve seats in advance so that our Members can sit at tables together. Obviously, for this, I need numbers so please let me know, if you would like to be included.

Where to meet
Ruskin House, 23 Coombe Road, Croydon CR0 1BD

What time
The tribute night starts at 7.00pm and finishes at 11pm

How much are the tickets
£4.00 on the door

If you would like to attend any of these events, please let Ireen know as soon as possible
Ireen Best (07968 035522)

Sir John Soane's museum
2026-02-08 09:30 - 17:00
There is a mish mash of things packed into two storeys of his house- an Egyptian sarcophagus being the highlight. There are several Hogarth paintings with him being the ‘father of British satire’ according to Ian Hislop editor of Private Eye.
Homepage | Sir John Soane’s Museum

How much does the museum cost ?
Entry is free

Are there any tours ?
There is a free tour of the private apartments at 2pm for those especially keen.
There is also a highlights tour at midday (chargeable)

What time will we meet and where?
It’s recommended to be there early to avoid queuing in the cold so Dionne proposes to catch the 9.30am from East Croydon– any late comers can join the group at the Musuem. That means being at East Croydon station at 9.15 to have enough time to get tickets and make it to the platform to get to London Bridge where the group will catch the 133 bus from stop M to Holborn Station where there is a short walk to the museum

What about lunch and after the visit
Maybe grab a light snack nearby or on your own in Lincoln Inn Fields – which is London’s largest public square- although sitting outside in February eating might not be a good idea!

‘We can spend some time looking at the sculptures as I guess not much to see in terms of vegetation. From there we can explore Lincoln’s Inn.

From Lincoln’s Inn Fields, you can wander through Lincoln’s Inn (the legal inn) which has some quiet courtyard squares.
Walk into the nearby Inner Temple / Middle Temple area: historic alleyways, cobbled paths, and the Temple Church are near.Option to walk to Somerset House on the Thames to see the courtyard but I reckon I would be tired by then.

I am interested

Let Dionne know as soon as possible so that if necessary she can make the Musuem aware of potential numbers.

Fun at The Manor
2026-02-10 20:15 - 22:00 | South Croydon United Church Hall, Aberdeen Road, South Croydon, CR0 1EQ, United Kingdom
Hear about the highlights of our trip to Okehampton, and a chance to tell your own tale of the goings-on.
It’s also a bit of a taster for our return trip in September!

Following several folk asking me what “Fun at the Manor” means, it will be an illustrated explanation from some of us who enjoyed over five very full days at a Devon activity centre, last September. Do try to come along to learn what happened, what the participating COPSErs thought about it – and what the options will be for our 2026 visit there. Perhaps check your diaries now to pencil in 13th to 18th September. This Tuesday evening might tempt you to be among our next group of “Lords and Ladies” of The Manor!
Regards,
Ireen Best (07968 035522)

Loop walk - Enfield to Chingford
2026-02-15 08:45 - 17:00
It’s time, once again, to pick up the LOOP* and continue on from last time when we finished at Enfield (Gordon Hill stn). We shall continue along the Turkey Brook and come off the LOOP to visit Forty Hall, a Jacobean mansion on the outskirts of Enfield, which you can go inside, stroll the gardens, and maybe visit the cafe (please Goooogle for more info). Also here is the site of a Tudor palace (no longer in existence) – a kind of Nonsuch Palace of North London (my words).
After this we track eastwards past two rail stns, where people (or all of us) can depart home. or people can join us (Turkey Street stn and Enfield Lock stn). Next we encounter our first canal since the Uxbridge area – Enfield Lock on the Lea Navigation. We then cross the Lea Valley, via Sewardstone Marsh and Hill, take in breath-taking views of London and arrive in the western fringes of Epping Forest (yes, it’s back to Essex!).
Food and drink possibilities along the way, particularly at Forty Hall, and then at the end maybe a pub near Chingford Stn from where we return. One of the places here is The Royal Forest, next to Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge, where we had a super meal the last time we were here in early 2020. It costs more now (doesn’t everywhere!?) and is waitress/waiter service now (rather than buffet style), or we could simply have a drink here, or just come home.
Distance is around 8 miles or so with one or two heart-thumping ascents and likely some mud! Bring some stuff to eat and drink along the way.
Meet East Croydon stn from 8.45am to catch the 9.08am Thameslink service, getting off at Finsbury Park to change for a train to Gordon Hill.
OH DEAR 🤨this is early, but Dionne managed to get people up for a train a little earlier than this the other day (and I can make it this time, as there is no engineering work from Tattenham Corner this week). Just make sure you are tucked up in bed with your cocoa by 9pm the night before. (❤️)
Because of engineering work somewhere between E Croy and Victoria, it’s going to be easier to go a little early and avoid walking between two London stations, and will involve just one change.
I am aiming to be at E Croy at 8.45am to meet people there, but if my train messes up I’ll catch you up along the way (I have a cunning plan B).
Have I forgotten anything (apart from the question mark), if so just call for more details…

Paul Newbold
07968 223589

* = the LOOP is the London Outer Orbital Path, a 150-mile long trail around the outskirts of Greater London going along rivers, across meadows and parkland, through woodland and, best of all, along some pavements and roads! It is 3 years now since we started at Erith along the scrap yards along the Thames, a memorable walk indeed!!

🌨️?
Oh No! we’ll have to x that bridge if/when we come to it. And just when we’re anticipating spring!

Pancakes and . . .
2026-02-17 20:15 - 22:00 | South Croydon United Church Hall, Aberdeen Road, South Croydon, CR0 1EQ, United Kingdom
The time for tossing and turning has again come around. This is not a reference to restless sleep but a reminder that the COPSE Pancake Night will be this week! A flipping good time can be had.
Please provide your own batter – prepared at home or at the hall, if you wish – plus the accompanying ingredients . We do need to have some extra cooking appliances, if possible, so please bring any camping stoves or portable electric hobs you may own, along with frypans, spatulas, plates and cutlery. (As with our recent Burns Night feast, clearing away is so aided if COPSErs can pop their own used items into a bag to take back home for cleaning.)
During the evening, indulge yourselves with self-made food – and become creative by experimenting with a variety of fillings. Think of it, concoct it and perhaps tempt other brave people to try your results! Below are some of both savoury and sweet efforts from past years.
Savoury
Mushrooms with garlic, onions, mixed herbs and cream
Grated mature Cheddar cheese with optional pickle
Blue cheese (“upmanship”!) with sun-dried tomatoes
Sardines
Sweet
Maltesers
Nutella chocolate spread
Christmas pudding with crème fraîche (over ten months to replace the pud!)
Lemon curd sprinkled with ground ginger
A slight spread of butter, drizzled over by various flavoured coffee syrups
… and, of course, the traditional fresh lemon juice and sugar!

As well as devouring our pancakes, we may once more have a tossing contest for anyone who wishes to take part.
Come to beat and eat, chew and chat. Shrove Tuesday usually proves to be a pleasantly sociable Club Night.

Eridge to Ashurst country walk
2026-02-21 09:00 - 16:00
Tim is leading a Kent walk from Eridge Station to Ashurst Station which are both on the same line. As it’s still winter he made a concession and reduced the mileage to 6/7 miles.

There will be a pub stop at Groombridge, but please bring refreshments and a packed lunch with you.

How to get there
You will need to get the 9.22 am Uckfield train from East Croydon (usually Platform 6) which will arrive in Eridge at 10.03. We will join you on the train at Edenbridge Town Station.

Getting back
Returning we will try and get the 15.56 from Ashurst which gets into EC at 16.37. You will need to buy a return ticket to Eridge.

Freedom pass holders
Remember that you need to pay from Warlingham.

Obviously it’s too early to know what the conditions will be like underfoot, but I’m sure there will be some mud! Come prepared with walking boots and waterproofs.

If the forecast is horrendous we will probably cancel, but no excuses for keeping away if it’s only showers.

Come and enjoy a good old fashioned country walk.

Linda

Motorbikes and Me, with Andy
2026-02-24 20:15 - 22:00 | South Croydon United Church Hall, Aberdeen Road, South Croydon, CR0 1EQ, United Kingdom
. . . with Andy

Andy has entertained us before with his vast knowledge, experience and sense of fun. This time he’ll chart his long love affair with motor bikes, and may even give us a look at one of his prime specimens. Don’t miss it!

Planning Meeting
2026-02-26 20:00 - 22:00 | Spreadeagle Pub, 39-41 Katharine St, Croydon, CR0 1NX, United Kingdom
This is your chance to set the agenda for the next quarter for both Club Nights and Outdoor activities. Bring along your proposals and bright ideas – very few are ever rejected!
And if you can’t make the meeting send them in to me.

Where?

An upstairs room in the Spread Eagle pub,
Katharine Street

When?

Thursday 26th February
6.30pm for food & drink
8pm for Business

Add to calendar

The Cockney Museum, the return
2026-02-28 12:00 - 17:00
Some of us have already been to this interesting museum, packed full of the stories behind the culture of London’s Cockneys and there is now the chance for a further group of us to visit. Some of us shall be going for a second time! There is a very extensive display of photographs and information to view – and those COPSErs not Londoners might be learning of this tradition for the first time, so do come along!
The museum was set up by George, Pearly King of Peckham, and we enjoyed his evening with us at our hall last month.
I have booked this Saturday’s group visit to the museum for 1pm. Meet just inside East Croydon station at 12.10am for the 12.19 train to Stoneleigh, via Clapham Junction. Museum entry is £8 but £5 for seniors. This time we shall not have a booked lunch at the museum but, afterwards, we can adjourn to “The Station” pub, for drinks and meal options before our return to Croydon.
I am collecting names for the group booking so please let me know a.s.a.p., if you would like to be included.

Regards,

Ireen Best (07968 035522)

Wine Tasting
2026-03-03 20:15 - 22:00 | South Croydon United Church Hall, Aberdeen Road, South Croydon, CR0 1EQ, United Kingdom
We again consult our oenological guru Alan, who I expect to be dazzling us with a variety of wines, some of which will, by way of a change and a challenge, emerge from boxes.
Make sure you’re present at the 8.30 kickoff so as not to miss any of the wines or nibbles.
Note that £3 will be extracted from drinkers. If you can get wine cheaper . . . you probably shouldn’t!

Geeks Transport Tour 2026
2026-03-08 10:00 - 17:00
Calling all transport geeks and copsers who just love nothing better than swanning around London with each other. Here are some details about this year’s tour on Sunday 8 March. It’s turning into a busman’s holiday. Meeting place and time below.

Devising this year’s tour is proving a challenge. Running out of new ideas is one thing but when many rail lines are closed for engineering works, that’s another…
TfL warns of widespread rail and Tube disruption throughout March

So, ticking off the Liberty Line will have to be deferred, again. Using the DLR is not attractive. Nipping round the Windrush line is not a goer. So… numerous bus rides it is.

Fortunately there is one mega piece of new transport infrastructure to visit. Largely not talked about. Perhaps because it’s been a success – on time, budget, doing what it is meant to do. But probably because it’s out of sight being underground and you would not notice it unless you are a regular motorist trying to cross from South East London to North East London. (Or a cyclist using the free cycle shuttle bus.) Yes, it’s the Blackwall Tunnel’s new cousin, the Silvertown Tunnel. We will take the most direct route by public transport (i.e. resisting the inexorable pull of London Bridge rail interchange) to Boord Street footbridge in North Greenwich for a revealing vantage point and then take one of the exciting new cross river bus services made possible. And then… the afternoon is a bit up for grabs. Further ideas welcome. But we will likely take in Liverpool Street station towards the end to learn a bit more about the controversial redevelopment plans. And then collapse in a Wetherspoons in the City.

Meeting – East Croydon tramstop 10.15am. We catch the tram towards Beckenham at 10.27am or thereabouts. Also possible to meet us at Beckenham Road tramstop (on street) approx. 10.40am where we alight and transfer to ‘Clock House’. (By coincidence a repeat of last year’s opening tram leg of the tour.) Ensure you have a suitable ticket / pass / Oyster card for all modes in zones 1 to 5.

Hope to see you.
Andrew
07985 936953

Croydon High Street, Part 2 with Carole Roberts
2026-03-10 20:15 - 22:00 | South Croydon United Church Hall, Aberdeen Road, South Croydon, CR0 1EQ, United Kingdom
Here’s local historian Carole on a previous visit. You’ll remember how enthusiastically we responded to her wonderfully researched and presented talks on the Davis Theatre and the Grand Theatre. Carole gave us a fascinating Part 1 of her Croydon High Street story last October. She has spent long hours in the Croydon archives digging up little-known facts, and her research certainly paid off with a series of “Ooh, I didn’t know that” moments.
We found out that, long before a disgruntled elephant trashed the place (you had to be there), the High Street may have been a Roman road and was certainly a bridleway by the Midde Ages. We discovered the origin of “North End” and “South End” – which certainly caused confusion in the 19th century and still does for some. We viewed the first(?) map of Croydon, from 1785 – in French, by a Frenchman. We tracked the rise and fall of the many watering holes, some of which continue to grace the area – the Ship has been there since 1835.
Now Carole’s back with Part 2, starting where Part 1 left off in 1901.
A must see event for our Club!

Loop walk - Chingford onwards
2026-03-14 09:00 - 17:00
Yes folks, this SATURDAY, SATURDAY, SATURDAY – time to continue with the LOOP* which is now very definitely in Essex.

Chingford to Chigwell Row (which is not at Chigwell, but some way beyond). A slightly shorter stretch than sometimes at around 7 miles or so. We take in a short visit to Queen Elizabeth I’s Hunting Lodge which is free and you can ride your horse up and down the staircase as she reputedly did! Next door is the Epping Forest Visitors Centre.

The possible refreshment stops are early in the walk at Butler’s Retreat cafe (where we went last time here in Feb 2020), and a pub shortly after, which we’ve never been to. After that you are reliant on your flask of tea/coffee and marmalade sandwiches until the end and beyond, so bring such stuff with you – along with a good pair of walking boots and a walking pole for any floods please, and maybe an inflatable dinghy if you have one (only joking about the last bit, I hope!)

After a short stretch of the Epping Forest we stride ever on into the Roding Valley, where we take a new route for the LOOP which you won’t find in the guidebook yet. A chance to leave and go home north of Chigwell where you can be directed to Chigwell station along a road straight there. Otherwise it’s onwards through beautiful countryside to Chigwell Row where we catch a regular short bus ride to Hainault Underground station.

Meet East Croydon rail stn at 9.00am to catch the 9.15 to London Bridge, then catching the tube to Liverpool Street, then an Overground train to Chingford, arriving at 10.43am. A Travelcard zones 1-6 will suffice for all this, unless you have all these wonderful magic cards.

*The LOOP (London Outer Orbital Path) is a 150 mile long trail around the outskirts of the London area, going along rivers, through woodland and meadow, over hill and dale, and sometimes on the pavement.

Paul N
07968 223589

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Yes, after all the rain we’ve had recently, you need to make sure you’re equipped for the conditions – boots and waterproofs are basic requirements!
Have you read and digested our guidance for walkers? It’s available here!

St Patrick's Day - Celebrating at Ruskin House
2026-03-17 19:30 - 23:00 | Ruskin House, 23 Coombe Road, Croydon, CR0 1BD, United Kingdom
We’ve made a habit of taking a party of COPSE people along to Ruskin House’s enjoyable annual Irish kneesup.
This year St Patrick’s Day falls on a Tuesday so we’re moving our Club Night up the road for the occasion.
Ireen will be reserving a COPSE space so we can sit together, and if you let her know you’re coming she will include you.
Sláinte!

Capital Ring Walk 6 - Wimbledon Park to Richmond
2026-03-22 10:00 - 17:00
Continuing to be inspired by Paul’s assault on the Loop, and encouraged by the enthusiastic turnout for Parts 1 to 5, I’m continuing the Capital Ring circuit.
Newbies can click on the map above to see what the Capital Ring is all about.
This leg is a stroll of about 7.5 miles on rough tracks or paths and grass, with some ups and downs. Please wear boots as mud still prevails!
The book says :
“Many Capital Ring walkers rate this section as the prettiest of the route., as it crosses three vast and delightful open spaces – Wimbledon Park, Wimbledon Common and Richmond Park – and conveniently passes their tea rooms”
There are plenty of feeding and toilet opportunities along the way, and there are pub options at the end – The Prince’s Head looks a good bet..
We finish at Richmond Station, from where the best way back to Croydon appears to involve a train to Waterloo, though I’m sure others can find alternative routes.
Joining Opportunities

East Croydon station from 12 noon to catch the 12.09 tram to Wimbledon, then tube to Wimbledon Park.
https://w3w.co/dock.jars.folds
Wimbledon Park Station, Arthur Road exit, where this leg of the Ring starts, from our scheduled arrival about 12.55
https://w3w.co/lime.grit.froth

Contact
Ken on 07921 258876

Valerie and Paul's Quiz Night
2026-03-24 20:15 - 22:00 | South Croydon United Church Hall, Aberdeen Road, South Croydon, CR0 1EQ, United Kingdom
Valerie now has so much time on her hands that she’s been able to devise, along with Paul, a (no doubt) intriguing and ingenious Quiz for our delight. I can’t wait to see what they come up with.
Come along (arriving on time!) and find out for yourself!

An all-vegetarian menu at a Croydon restaurant
2026-03-26 19:00 - 22:30
Please contact Ireen for further details and to book
Ireen (07968 035522)

Steaming day at Kew
2026-03-29 09:00 - 17:00
Hi everyone next Sunday 29th March a visit is planned to the London Museum of Water and Steam which is located near to Kew Bridge in West London.
Here is their website: https://waterandsteam.org.uk/
The museum invites you to “Step into the age of steam and discover London’s most awe-inspiring museum and uncover the surprising story behind the city’s quest for clean water. We tell the story of London’s public water supply, the site, its people and the amazing pumping engines that helped to transform a city.”
Our visit is on a Steam-Up day when these amazing engines are run.
There is also a steam railway for you to take a ride on.
Tickets
I did a recce on the last steaming day in February and spoke to the nice lady in charge.
She said that we could book our tickets on line at
https://lmws.digitickets.co.uk/category/51367?navItem=1185565
Make sure you book for Sunday March 29th!
Steaming day tickets cost £15
At the moment there is a good ticket availability for this day.
You can just turn up and I would imagine you would not have a problem but if you would like to be sure then book.
Food and drink
There is a cafe at the museum opening from 11.30am. There is a pub nearby that does lunch deals and there are also several cafes and coffee bars nearby, or you can bring your own lunch.
Other local interests.
For those interested there is the Musical Museum just up the road. It seems to have some good reviews although I have not verified this.
https://www.musicalmuseum.co.uk/visit-us
This museum has ” An amazing array of musical instruments and inventions. Self-playing pianos and violins, pipe organs, music boxes, gramophones, keyboards, synthesizers and more.”
It features “A piano that can reproduce performances recorded by world-famous pianists. A violin that can play itself! Have you heard an Edison Phonograph? Or a jukebox that plays 78rpm records? The electronic organ that changed the sound of pop music?”
Entrance is £15 or £12 for concessions.
Travel arrangements.
We meet at 9.20am at East Croydon rail station to catch the 9.36am to Clapham Junction.
Here we catch the 10.00am train to Kew Bridge arriving at 10.16.
The museum is a 2 minute walk away.
No muddy footpaths so ordinary town shoes are appropriate.
I look forward to seeing you.
Cheers,
Andy

Bring Your Work Home
2026-03-31 20:15 - 22:00 | South Croydon United Church Hall, Aberdeen Road, South Croydon, CR0 1EQ, United Kingdom
“I love work. I could watch it all day”,
said someone.
This is a bit like that. It’s another instalment of our feature where COPSErs give an account of their working lives to the rest of us.
Previous occasions have been very informative and entertaining, with some surprising revelations, and there’s no reason this one should be any different.
Please be there on time to avoid interrupting the flow!

Cherry Blossom Walk
2026-04-05 10:30 - 17:00
Hello all

Join Dionne on her Cherry Tree Walk via the Chelsea Gate, Battersea Park, looping towards the river on the way back.

Lunch break will be at Roti King which serves Malaysian street food. Check it out.
Roti King Battersea

Heading to Greenwich after lunch via a train to Victoria, then the tube to North Greenwich station. From there, you will make your way to the Cherry Blossom lined avenue at the Ranger’s House.

Where to meet
10.45 at East Croydon for the 11am train to Victoria getting off at Battersea Park.

Getting back, the Jubilee line to London Bridge and then the fast train to East Croydon.
