learn, laugh, live

We meet on the first Thursday and we work in pairs. We travel to London on an 09:45-ish train. In January we meet for lunch and plan the year ahead. Each pair chooses a venue and a month and undertakes a thorough recce to confirm all the details for a successful visit.  Each visit ends with lunch in a local pub. Above you see some of the group after a visit to Southwark Cathedral and the historic George Inn. There follows a report on a recent visit to Charlton House and St. Luke’s Church.

On a bright March day fourteen of us bravely ventured in to Charlton, a lesser known part of South London. We had a guided tour of Charlton House, a Jacobean mansion built between 1607 and 1612 for Sir Adam Newton who was tutor to Henry, Prince of Wales - the eldest son of James I. It is one of the finest surviving Jacobean manor houses in England. The plaster ceilings and splendid fire places were just a few aspects to be admired. After surviving many ups and downs and both world wars, despite its location near the docks, it is now a community hub with a very active programme of events.

After lunch was served to us by the friendly staff we strolled in the gardens and park before a second guided tour of St Luke’s church opposite the mansion. The most intrepid of our group climbed the extremely narrow stairs up the tower to enjoy an unforgettable view of London. A volunteer gave us a very detailed explanation of the unique millennium tapestry, adorning one wall of the church, depicting many historical events from the birth of Christ to the year 2000. The tapestry was designed and woven by local people. 

Just a short train ride from London Bridge we had experienced yet more of our incredible capital.

Last updated 18 March 2026