Reigate & Redhill

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Reigate & Redhill u3a Groups

Antiques & Bygones     

Meets 1st Thursday am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details We look at antiques and memorabilia from a bygone age. Each month, a volunteer in the group does some research on a subject, gives a short talk and if we can, we each bring relevant objects. It is interesting to find out about the social background and use of bygones such as writing materials, time-keeping and kitchenalia. Subjects can range from coins and ceramics to jewellery, chairs and maps. Interesting memories are triggered and by rummaging in cupboards and drawers, we often find objects we had forgotten about. We also have an annual visit to a museum, antiques fair, stately home or auction rooms followed by a pub lunch.

Architecture     

Meets No set date
Details The aim of the group is to visit interesting and unusual architecture places and spaces. We visit places in and around London using public transport. The first outing was in July 2022.

Architecture 2     

Meets No set date
Details This is a new group with a view to exploring places of architectural interest in and around London.

Art Appreciation     

Meets 2nd Wednesday pm
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:30
Details Each member chooses and researches a painting within an agreed theme. At the meeting it is shown on a large TV screen for all to discuss. We also talk about exhibitions we have visited and arts programmes we have watched.

Art For Pleasure     

Meets Tuesday am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details We are a very happy, sociable group and welcome new members. We consist of six men and 14 ladies, all doing our own thing in a variety of media. As the name of the group states, it is art for pleasure. There is no pressure or formality. The only tutoring we get is from each other but this does not prevent us from producing good quality work which is sometimes displayed at the U3A AGM. We enjoy our hobby in a relaxed environment. We run our class from early September, with a short break for Christmas, then through till the end of June, when we break for the summer.

Art History     

Meets 1st Tuesday am
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Details We are a lively group, and the format of meetings is an evolving and movable feast depending on each persons particular interest. Since the beginning we have explored the history of some of the most famous collections, which include The History of The Wallace Collection, The National Gallery and the Watts Gallery to name but a few. What we find exciting is exploring the history of art in all its forms, studying the history of Sculpture, ceramics and photography, and the work of women artists who survived and thrived in the predominantly male artistic world of the past; In the Summer we usually visit exhibitions or collections, and we are currently exploring the world of the Scottish Colorists, moving on to the artists of Ireland. Each month, one individual presents an artist, or artists, of interest to them, followed by a group discussion. Each January we plan our programme together for the coming year, with every group member making a contribution to the discussion.

Book Group 1     

Meets 1st Wednesday pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details Our books are chosen for the year at our annual Christmas lunch.  We usually include a best seller, classic, thriller, autobiography/biography.  Our members decide which books to choose and when to host in their homes.  We have at least an hour’s discussion including book club questions, in which everyone participates.

Book Group 3     

Meets 2nd Friday a,m,
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details Our mixed group meets to discuss and share ideas about the books we have chosen to read. Every six months we select a wide range of books suggested by the group members. Amongst the books we have read this year were a Booker Prize winner, a travel book, a biography, a classic, a crime novel and books exploring the themes of relationships, love and loss. We don't all have the same response to the books we read but that makes for lively discussion. Because of the varied interests of the members we have been introduced to a wider range of books and authors than we would have chosen ourselves.

Book Group 5     

Meets 3rd Tuesday pm
Normally starts 14:15 to 16:00
Details We are a small & friendly group, with a diverse taste in reading. We have recently read biographies, modern classics, a travel book as well as books from the bestseller lists. We don't always agree about the current book but we do always have a lively discussion. As well as sharing views about the current month's book when we meet, we also discuss what else we may have read during the month and discuss reviews of books which have appeared in the media etc. Twice a year we decide what we would like to read for the next six months.

Book Group 6     

Meets 3rd Tuesday am
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Details We have seven members and we meet in members' homes. The group started in 2013. We have tried various methods of choosing books and at present each member chooses a book in turn. Choices range from Maggie O'Farrell's Hamnet to Lucy Worsley's biography of Agatha Christie.

Book Group 7     

Meets 2nd Tuesday p.m.
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details We all suggest a couple of books for the following year at our Christmas lunch, held in December each year. We decide which of these we will read and when. Our most recent book choices have been Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus and Black Waterlilies by Michael Bussi. The most enjoyable book of recent years was The Seven Sisters by Lucinda Riley. This book is the first in a series of seven and several of the group have eagerly read a further five books in the series, and are awaiting the final book. Sometimes we have made a difficult choice and the books have not always been to many people's taste, but we are introduced to a variety of different authors whose books we may not have read before. We meet in different members' homes each month, alternating between Reigate, Nutfield and Caterham

Bridge (Duplicate)     

Meets 2nd & 4th Fridays pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 17:00
Details Duplicate Bridge is the playing format at bridge clubs. The cards are played from a board so that the same hands can be played by different pairs, thereby making it more competitive. We are limited to six tables (24 players) because of the size of the hall at the Friends Meeting House. This means that there is usually a waiting list of members wanting to join.

Bridge (Rubber)     

Meets Mon, Wed & Thurs pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 17:00
Details The group currently has approximately 40 members and is of mixed ability with both experienced players and several who have only learned to play in the last year or so. There are, however, no absolute beginners in the group. We play in members' houses with about half the group being in a position to host games. Members play as often, or as little, as they like, some playing every week and others only once a month. A rota is produced covering a two monthly period.

Bridge - Improvers 1     

Meets Tuesday am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details Regular weekly attendance is the aim as Bridge learning is necessarily progressive.

Bridge Virtual     

Meets Flexible
Details A forum to encourage players of all ability to play, watch and practice casual bridge on line through Bridge Base Online.

Canasta     

Meets 2nd and 4th Fridays
Normally starts 14:00 to 17:00
Details This is a friendly, mixed-ability group. It is ideal for beginners as all members are helpful, supportive and encouraging.

Craft and Chat     

Meets 1st and 3rd Wednesdays
Normally starts 10:15 to 12:15
Details This group was set up in April 2023, initially held in the foyer of the Harlequin Theatre and Cinema but currently meeting at the Ponderosa Lounge in Redhill. Members bring along and continue with their own ongoing crafts such as knitting, crochet, embroidery and card-making whilst enjoying a tea/coffee and general chat! The idea is to be a self-help group, and to share ideas and skills as well having an enjoyable and sociable time.

Creative Embroidery     

Meets 1st Thursday am
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Details GWe develop individual designs, using a variety of techniques, to produce both hand- and machine-stitched decorative pieces. Resources and ideas are shared and discussed and often new projects evolve from within the Group. There are opportunities to take part in non-U3A Textile events.

Creative Stitch     

Meets 1st Tuesday am
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Details We are a small group, meeting in a member’s house. We set a programme of topics and challenges involving our own design, with fabric and thread using machine or hand-sewing. Everyone also owns a small book, which travels around the Group, for each member to add a small piece of creative stitch.

Cryptic Crosswords     

Meets 3rd Tuesday am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details The usual format for meetings is to work on a Daily Telegraph cryptic crossword (individually, then as a group), followed by solving a Times jumbo cryptic crossword (circulated in advance). Members enjoy helping each other to understand how solutions are reached. This helps develop each person’s crossword solving skills.

Current Affairs 1     

Meets 2nd & 4th Fridays am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details Current Affairs 1 group does not operate to a pre-planned agenda. We review the main issues that are currently attracting media, and hence our attention. The group leader keeps a log of possible subjects for use if required. We have tolerant, free-flowing debates, moving on when we have exhausted what we want to say on a topic.We try to balance full justice to the more serious topics - of which there is never a shortage - with lighter items on sport, entertainment, and the endless curiosities of life.We meet normally at the group leader's house.

Current Affairs 2     

Meets 2nd Friday of month pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details This is a newly formed group which had its inaugural meeting on Tuesday 31st January 2023. Monthly meetings are held on the second Friday afternoon from 2pm to 4pm. Two topics are agreed in the group for the next meeting to give time for research. Topics covered so far include Ukraine, Moral Standards in Politics, The Princess of Wales’s interest in the importance of “early years”/”early childhood, and Inflation – what it is and why it matters.

Current Affairs 3     

Meets 2nd Thursday am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details We meet at a member's house in Reigate where we enjoy discussing topics of the day.

Current Affairs 4     

Meets 2nd Thursday pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details We take it in turns to present topical subjects.Two days before the meeting, members of the group are contacted giving them information concerning the subjects to be discussed, enabling them to collect any relevant information. We have very lively discussions but always part amicably!

Cycling     

Meets 3rd Monday 10am
Normally starts 10:00 to 13:00
Details This group is for those who like cycling. It can include any type of bike (road, ebike, mountain). The aim is to plan 15-20 mile bike rides on local roads and bridleways within the capabilities of the members and will include a suitable tea/coffee break where available and a pub lunch or drink afterwards. On occasion, group members may transport bikes by car to enjoy a ride a bit further away.

Dementia Awareness Workshop     

Meets Thursday 7 March 2024
Details 

Dutch/Flemish Interest Group     

Meets Wednesday fortnightly
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:00
Details This group had its first meeting in February 2024. All members are able to speak Dutch, though with differing levels of proficiency. At the moment the members of this newly formed group are getting to know each other and will be looking to use on-line Dutch language material which can be read and discussed during some sessions.

Earth & Environmental Sciences     

Meets 2nd Tuesday am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details If you have an interest in the world around you, but have little scientific background, this is the group for you! All is explained! It is fun, very interesting and covers such a range of topics, it is never boring and not at all scary. We are a friendly group of no more than 10 people which likes to consider the physical, natural and cultural processes that shape the world around us. The basic principles of geology and other factors that shape the surface of the earth are often considered when looking at the landscape we see around us and the plants, animals and insects that make this world their home. We also consider the cultural influences that have affected historic and present landscapes. We meet in members' houses once a month on the second Tuesday. Once a year members prepare a subject to present to the meeting which is then discussed. These presentations are often no more than an hour long and the subject can be based on past experience, or more excitingly, the exploration of a topic new to them. If you are new to making presentations in person or online, members of the Group would always be happy to help you. Earlier subjects have included the exploration of Everest, the Whin Sill, the Antonine Wall, as well as Piltdown Man, the Massif Central, gold mining in Scotland and fracking. A diverse range of topics which is ever expanding. At least once a year we try to have an all day visit to a local place of interest. Recent visits have included Buckland Park Lake, The Thames Barrier, Cuckmere Haven and the Royal Geographic Society. We also hold a magazine meeting at least once a year. Each member brings along an item or article that they consider interesting which we can all discuss.

Exploring with a Bus Pass     

Meets Monthly as arranged
Details This is a new group which had its first visit towards the end of November 2023. The idea is to travel to and explore places using our bus passes. Naturally, those who have yet to have a pass will be very welcome to join, though will obviously have to pay for their travel.

Family History 1     

Meets Second Wednesday every month.
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:00
Details We are a group who share an enthusiasm for tracing our own family histories, albeit with quite varying levels of experience in doing so. During our meetings we try to help each other in our genealogical endeavours by exchanging knowledge and tips about topics, techniques, reference books, family history software and online resources. Sometimes one member of the group will have prepared a short presentation on a given topic, although we always make time to update each other any progress and things we have discovered. Until recently we have run most of our meetings on Zoom, a habit picked up during the Covid-19 period, but recently we have started to meet face-to-face much more frequently. We also arrange occasional group outings, for example a recent group visit to the National Archives.

Family History 2     

Meets 3rd Thursday pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details Family History Group 2 continues to meet regularly at members’ homes and each year we plan a mixed programme of outings and meetings with a specific subject e.g. A relative from 1850. We share our knowledge, sometimes artifacts and documents, and help each other with “brick walls”. Twice a year all three Family History groups meet and invite an outside speaker. This has proved very popular, especially Nick Barrett of WDYTYA. We go out to lunch each summer and at our Christmas meeting we have a glass of wine and a mince pie and plan next year's programme.

Family History 3     

Meets 1st Thursday am
Normally starts 11:00 to 13:00
Details We are a friendly group of 11 members, who range from beginners to experienced family historians. New members who are starting out on researching their ancestry are offered one to one sessions to help them begin their journey of discovery. Each month we have a topic chosen by the group on any aspect of genealogy, and everyone contributes to the ensuing discussion. Twice a year we join with the other Family History groups. We also have an annual outing. This year we visited the Churchill War Rooms in Westminster.

Family History 4     

Meets 2nd Tuesday am
Normally starts 11:00 to 13:00
Details Have you been inspired and intrigued by the television programme Who Do You Think You Are? Would you too like to be amazed as you unravel the mysteries of your ancestors? You may discover, like actor Danny Dyer that you can trace your tree back to royalty in the 11th century or like singer Boy George that you have Irish Republican links. Or your folks may be more ordinary, but just as fascinating, who have experienced brushes with the law, the scandal of divorce or bigamy or just the frowned-upon stigma of an illegitimate child. Get an insight into their jobs and living conditions, where they went to school and what their town or village was like when they were there. Join our friendly and fun group to start your own investigation. We have been running for several years and have lots of knowledge that we are willing to share. Our monthly meetings generally comprise of a short talk from one of the members, or an invited speaker, followed by problem-solving sessions where the members may split into smaller groups guided by one of the more experienced members. Occasional visits to places of interest for family history research are sometimes organised.

Forest Fitness     

Meets Monday weekly
Normally starts 10:00 to 11:30
Details 

French (Advanced) Proposed Grp     

Meets NULL
Details 

French Circle 1     

Meets 1st & 3rd Weds pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details We are a friendly group who meet around the table to use our spoken French. Members recount their activities, interests and sometimes discuss newspaper articles. The last part of the meeting is often dedicated to reading text. A bit of translation into English goes on here just to confirm understanding, but most of the meeting is in French only! We don't teach the language but we give people the space and confidence to use what they know.

French Circle 2 (Advanced)     

Meets 1st & 3rd Wed pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details Our aim is to give members the opportunity to restore a high level of fluency in spoken French. Suitable for members who are already fluent in French, or want to revive their former fluency. Some of our members have lived and worked in a French -speaking environment. We want to maintain our fluency in everyday conversation in general topics and everything else under the sun. Sometimes this will bring in specialist areas and there we will help each other out to try to fill unavoidable gaps in our vocabulary. We begin our meetings with a general discussion based on our recent activities and items in the news. We then study and discuss an item from the press that deals with a matter of interest in the Francophone world.

French Conversation 1     

Meets 2nd & 4th Mondays am
Normally starts 10:00 to 11:30
Details We are a small, friendly conversation group, sharing ideas, experiences, vocabulary and fun, all in French. Our discussions spring from newspaper and magazine articles, in addition to offerings and personal accounts from members gathered on trips to France. We also use various internet articles. Topics vary considerably, ranging from The Olympics to French road works, The Legion d'Honneur to English bathrooms! We also use games and celebrations to encourage us to speak French. Use it or lose it!

French Conversation 2     

Meets Tuesdays alternate
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details We are a well-established group. At each meeting we usually start with talking about what we have done since the last meeting, then maybe read and discuss a French document or view a short video, eg on YouTube, or any other topic that generates discussion.

French Improvers     

Meets 1st & 3rd Weds pm
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:30
Details We are a group of eight to ten whose aim is to brush up our rusty French. We want to become more fluent in speaking French when in France and to be able to understand native French speakers without panicking when they speak fast! As we don’t have a native French speaker among the group we make use of technology to help. By connecting an iPad wirelessly to the television we are able to share the two online dictionaries we use to help develop our vocabulary. We each prepare a short piece on an agreed subject such as journeys, our favourite meals, or an item of news. This starts conversations and questions flowing. We also listen via the internet to native French speakers. We have tried a range of resources over the years but currently have subscribed to News in Slow French which gives us the opportunity to listen to reports and conversations about current affairs. We are able to see a transcript on screen and print it off which helps us to explore new expressions. We share the cost of the subscription every three months. Above all we enjoy ourselves and everyone is improving!

Garden Explorers     

Meets 3rd Tuesday pm (March to November)
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details We visit National Trust, private gardens or gardens in the National Garden Scheme (NGS) which open especially for us. We try to visit gardens within Surrey but sometimes venture into Kent or Sussex. In the past, we have had two visits a year, with transport included, to major gardens further afield, but these have been put on hold. Costs vary between free for National Trust members and round about £10. We use our own transport but car share wherever possible. We always end the afternoon with tea in a cafe or supplied by the garden host.

Gardening 4     

Meets 4th Tuesday pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details We visit mainly fairly local gardens, and have recently started to arrange visits to gardens which will open especially for small groups. This has led to some interesting and informative visits. We occasionally meet in each other's homes to see each other's gardens and we often swap seeds and plants. We also have an annual plant swap in May We try to plan visits to a garden when it is at its best-ie Sheffield Park in autumn-and usually have at least one visit to Wisley during the year, as it is relatively close and there is something to see whatever the time of year. We car-share as far as possible to keep down the cost of our trips.

German Conversation     

Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesdays am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details Intermediate level German conversation. We get together and talk informally about current issues of the day, and anything else of interest. We do have a German speaker in the group who is able to help us out when needed!

Handbells     

Meets Friday am
Normally starts 09:30 to 12:30
Details The R&R Handbell Group was formed at the beginning of 2016, and has developed into an extremely enthusiastic, friendly and moderately-competent team of 16 ringers. Its repetoire consists mainly of well-known popular, classical or folk tunes, which are played on one and half octaves (12 bells + accidentals)- but hopes to expand in both musical range and number of ringers required, progressively over time. Vacancies occur occasionally. No previous experience is required but the ability to read music (however elementary) is necessary, as is attendance as regularly as possible-as is obviously needed for team effort. There is a termly charge to cover purchases and room hire. Willing group members perform occasionally in care-homes and local clubs supporting elderly/disadvantaged people. At these, the audience is usually offered the opportunity to "have a go " using small, coloured (but perfectly tuned) bells. These outings have proved most worthwhile and hugely enjoyable to all participants. The group enjoys membership of "Handbell Ringers of Great Britain" (HRGB), SE Region, which stages an annual Bell Orchestra every May, nearby at Harlquin, Reigate.

History 1 British     

Meets 2nd Wednesday am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details We are a very friendly group who take it in turns to talk about a subject or person. The talk lasts approximately 45 minutes to one hour, and can include maps, diagrams/pictures plus discussions.

History 2 Modern     

Meets 3rd Thursday pm
Normally starts 14:15 to 16:15
Details Each month, a member will give a 45 minute presentation on a selected, historical subject, following some research. The topic is then thrown open for general discussion where others may contribute any interesting information that they may have acquired independently. None of our members is a professional historian but we are all enthusiasts. On occasions, we also arrange to visit historic properties and exhibitions that have a connection with the subject matter.

History 3 - Modern World     

Meets 4th Monday pm
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:30
Details This group examines and discusses the historical implications that political, economic, social and religious influences have had in shaping the modern world. Topics recently researched include the life and times of Catherine the Great, Napoleon’s abortive attempt to invade Russia, Collapse of Central Powers in 1918 and the peace treaties that fashioned the inter-war period. Future topics include Kruschev’s involvement in the space race and the Cuban Missile Crisis. Members are invited to share their knowledge and participate in discussions. The group is currently exercising their minds investigating China's political, economic and social history.

History 4 - Hidden History     

Meets 2nd Tuesday am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details Each month we meet to share less well-known historical interest. Our sessions are friendly, informal and no one person is responsible for the whole meeting. We are never short of topics and have covered the stories of people, events places and even commodities, such as coal and ice! A typical session would include three or four different subjects. brought to the Group by members, followed by questions and general discussion. Do come along and join us; this is a very friendly Group and we offer a warm welcome to new members.

Holidays: Dordogne France     

Meets 24/04/2024 - 29/04/2024
Details Staying in 4* hotel in Soulliac

Holidays: Lake District     

Meets 18 -22 October
Details Holiday: The Lake District

Italian 1 [basic plus]     

Meets 2nd & 4th Fridays am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details We are a friendly, informal group who work to improve our basic Italian by talking, tackling questions, revising, crosswords and reading. We also learn about Italy and matters Italian.

Italian 2     

Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesdays am
Normally starts 10:45 to 12:15
Details After a bit of chatting in Italian we are using a book called "Espresso 3" which provides us with listening, speaking and reading material and also revises a grammar point in each chapter. We try to finish with something more lighthearted : a game, a piece of video and, very occasionally, an aria from an opera.

Italian Beginners     

Meets 1st and 3rd Wednesdays
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details The purpose of this group is to develop basic knowledge and vocabulary of the language for those who will be holidaying in Italy.

Jazz Appreciation 2     

Meets 2nd Monday am
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Details Jazz (II) covers all types of jazz, from Traditional to Modern; members bring along their own CDs and other members give their views (frank!!) on the music.

Keep Moving Outdoors     

Meets Thurs a.m.
Normally starts 10:00 to 11:00
Details Walk, talk and exercise in a small group. We start with some Qi Gong type movement then walk around the park. We then do some exercises to maintain mobility and keep the brain active. We then walk on to do some resistance exercises and stretches.

Latin 1     

Meets 1st & 3rd Thursdays pm
Normally starts 14:15 to 15:30
Details We have a reasonable knowledge of Latin and have been following the Cambridge Latin Course for a number of years now, and have reached Book 4. We concentrate mostly on language but also discuss Roman civilisation.

Latin 2     

Meets Tuesday am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details This group is for members who would like to continue to learn, or refresh, their Latin.

Learn to Relax     

Meets 1st Tuesday pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details These ancient practices of Breath Awareness and Meditation give an experience that aims to bring peace, joy and harmony into our lives. It can bring about many positive changes in ourselves, our interactions with others and the world in general. The process of learning relaxation techniques can help you develop more self-awareness and learn skills that enable you to live a more balanced, whole-hearted and happy life. Each session starts with some gentle mindful movements to release physical tension in the body, followed by various breathing practices which focus on slowing and calming the mind, and ending with a short, seated meditation to bring you into total mind and body relaxation. No experience or knowledge necessary, all levels are welcome. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing.

Lets Play Games     

Meets 2nd Friday Evening
Normally starts 19:30 to 21:30
Details The Lets Play Games group is for people who would like to learn some new board games and play some old ones.

Local History     

Meets 2nd Thursday pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details This is a very active group with monthly meetings or outings. Members are encouraged to suggest and plan visits to areas of local interest/ present a talk at a meeting.

London Experience 1     

Meets Monthly as arranged
Details "When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life," stated Samuel Johnson. We generally meet at Victoria, London Bridge or Charing Cross during the third week of the month to explore and enjoy what this city, one of the most fascinating in the world, has to offer. Each day out tends to follow a similar format, though one which is definitely not set in stone! Each day is inclined to include at least one guided visit/walk and a self-guided visit with lunch in between. Visits so far have included The Royal Opera House, The Museum of Brands, Benjamin Franklin's House, Chelsea Physic Garden, the V&A, the Supreme Court of Justice and Charterhouse as well as a variety of London Walks.

Lunch Club 2     

Meets Monthly As agreed
Details We are a friendly and welcoming group that meets for a chat and a good meal on different days of the week, excluding weekends. We like to try out new country pubs and restaurants, but always enjoy revisiting some old favourites. Suggestions for venues come from members of the group.

Lunch Club Sundays 1     

Meets 3rd Sunday
Details We are a friendly group who meet to enjoy Sunday lunch together at a range of local pubs. The group leaders are very much open to suggestions of any new venues from the members.

Lunch Proposed Group     

Meets NULL
Details 

Mahjong     

Meets 2nd Tuesdays am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:30
Details It is a game for 4 players. We meet and play on the homes of different members of the group.

Mathematics     

Meets 1st Fridays am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details We are a group who love Mathematics. A few are retired mathematicians but many derive their interest in mathematics from careers in engineering. We enjoy revisiting topics we may not have felt very strong about in school or at college, sharing our enthusiasm with each other. Our emphasis is on mathematics that describes what goes on in the real world. Our activities include making mechanical models, such as Meccano Differential Analyser, recreation of Napier’s Bones as well as investigating the properties of the non-transitive dice! We have also looked at the mathematics behind the tides and the weather.

Middle-8     

Meets Wednesday
Normally starts 10:00 to 13:00
Details Our musical group currently comprises a pianist, 2 guitarists, a saxophonist/clarinetist, a singer and percussion (standard moderate-to-good) We meet every two weeks. Our repertoire at present includes popular and Latin-American.

Music Appreciation 2     

Meets 2nd and 4th Tuesday
Details Our aim is to enhance members' enjoyment and understanding of the whole spectrum of classical music, from early to modern, by informed listening. Each member has the opportunity to present their own choice of programme which may or may not have a theme depending on their own preferences. In addition to well-known works by established composers, there is often an emphasis on little known works or composers. Discussion is encouraged and this results in a varied, balanced and enjoyable musical experience. No prior musical knowledge or skills are required, just an interest in music and an open mind.

Music Appreciation 3     

Meets 3rd Friday pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details Sheer enjoyment of listening to good classical music in a welcoming environment. A varied programme is presented monthly usually with the consensus of the group members. One meeting could be centered around a theme where every member is asked to bring a piece of music that represents their thoughts on usually a one-word theme. The next meeting could have one member presenting a whole programme of their choice to members.

Narrative Writing 1     

Meets 4th Tuesday pm
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:30
Details As you might guess from the title, the members of this group write stories. The definition of ‘narrative’ is a wide one and has included fiction, autobiography and short play scripts. We have published a collection of stories titled "Short Stories from Surrey" available on Amazon. Our most recent project was a collaboration with Middle8 music group writing and performing stories inspired by a selection of their songs. Future projects are decided by the group but individuals are welcome to follow their own projects and to bering them to the group for ideas and comment. During the session we read our current work which is then commented on critically by the rest of the group.

Narrative Writing 2     

Meets 4th Tuesday pm
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:30
Details We cover a wide variety of narrative types, although our members mainly write short stories, which may be linked to a subject chosen the preceding month. Contributions are read aloud and helpful comments welcomed. Currently using Zoom.

Opera 1     

Meets 1st Wednesday am
Normally starts 10:15 to 12:15
Details We listen to CD's and watch DVDs of operas but we do not sing. We discuss what members of the group have seen or heard recently and what they will see next. We have learnt about castratti, counter-tenors, the various forms of tenor. etc. We aim to learn about composers, librettists and enjoy listening to our members favourite arias and singers.

Opera 2     

Meets 2nd and 4th Tuesdays
Normally starts 14:15 to 16:30
Details We listen to CDs or watch DVDs and then discuss different aspects of the opera chosen for that session.

Ornithology     

Meets 3rd Thursday am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details We are a very enthusiastic group of bird watchers. Sightings and identification of common and less common birds are always rewarding. With the exception of August, we have full or half-day trips to various nature reserves, parks and coastal areas. Examples of the places we have visited are Pulborough Brooks RSPB Nature Reserve, Sevenoaks Wildfowl Reserve, Oare Marshes, Warnham Nature Reserve, Mercers Country Park and  Cannon's Farm, Banstead. In August we hold a planning meeting when we discuss venues for the following year and we then produce a programme.At Christmas time/new year we have lunch together.

Out and About     

Meets Flexible
Details We are, quite simply, a group of individuals who contact each other if we want to, say, visit a National Trust site, an exhibition, the cinema or a concert, enjoy a walk, meet for coffee and chat, or a light lunch, all at short notice and with pleasant company.To enable the group to do this at short notice, individuals share their ideas with the other group members, and ensure a speedy response, by posting them on the group's WhatsApp. Members are encouraged to share their ideas for socialising spontaneously!

Outings Ghost File     

Meets 
Details File to download members details to communicate with members before they join a particular outings group. File will normally be empty.

Outings: A Day In Sussex     

Meets 25/05/2023
Details This group is purely for accounting purposes and does not contain information about members.

Outings: Chichester 2023     

Meets 19/07/2023
Details This group is purely for accounting purposes and does not contain information about members.

Outings: Chichester 2024     

Meets 13/08/2024
Details This group is purely for accounting purposes and does not contain information about members.

Outings: City of Rochester     

Meets 22/05/2024
Details This group is purely for accounting purposes and does not contain information about members.

Outings: Cruising Into Xmas     

Meets 30/11/2023
Details 

Outings: Fishbourne & Arundel     

Meets 27/03/2024
Details This group is purely for accounting purposes and does not contain information about members.

Outings: Fishbourne Police     

Meets Wednesday 27 March 2024
Details List for Police Station pick up

Outings: Fishbourne Prezzo     

Meets Wednesday 27 March 2024
Details List for Prezzo pick up

Outings: Fishbourne Red Cross     

Meets Wednesday 27 March 2024
Details List for Red Cross pick up.

Outings: Holland Park Set     

Meets 13/09/2023
Details 

Patchwork     

Meets 1st Tuesday pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details This group has now been going since November 2011. We are a group of eight with a variety of experience from beginners to experts. We meet in each other's houses. Some months a member demonstrates a new technique; demonstrates a certain project, eg making a patchwork purse or a specific patchwork block that can be used in a sampler or on its own for a quilt. Other months we work on our own projects. It is here that we help each other with specific problems that members need advice on.

Patchwork - Machine     

Meets 2nd Tuesday pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:30
Details The group is a mixture of very experienced and novices so it's a good opportunity to swap techniques and help each other. We try to introduce a new method each month and also work on group projects. Using a rotary cutter and cutting mat a huge variety of patchwork patterns can be produced quickly using a sewing machine. Designs can incorporate stripes, squares and triangles. The patchwork can be used to make small items such as cushions, place mats, table runners etc or larger items such as baby quilts and bed quilts. The finished tops can then be machine or hand quilted according to preference. Rotary cutters, cutting mats and sewing machines are available for use. Fabric and a hand sewing kit is all that is required to get started producing patchwork tops.

Petanque-French Boules     

Meets 2nd and 4th Tuesdays
Normally starts 11:00 to 12:00
Details Play boules, chat and socialise in a friendly outdoor group. We will play some friendly games with different pairings before finishing off with coffee in the cafe for those who want to stay on. No previous skill required.

Philosophy 1     

Meets 1st Tuesday a.m.
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details At the centre of Philosophy, ethics and morals loom large. At the same time we tend towards Western Philosophy. The usual culprits such as Socrates, Plato and Aristotle very often get centre stage, as do Nietzsche, Kant and Descartes. In recent months we've looked to broaden our horizons by looking at Eastern and African Philosophy, with a little help from Julian Baggini's book How the World Thinks. Like all philosophers, we're always searching.

Philosophy 2     

Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesdays am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details In our discussions of Philosophy we usually all follow a book with individual members introducing chapters in turn. We have moved on from Political Philosophy to early philosophical introductions including Descartes' "Meditations" and Bertrand Russell's "Problems of Philosophy. Currently we are reading "Metaphysical Animals". An account of how four exceptional Women Graduates, including Elisabeth Anscombe and Iris Murdoch, changed the face of Oxford University Philosophy in the 1940's and 50's. This unfamiliar story has been a source of lively discussions.

Photography     

Meets 1st Thursday
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details We like to take pictures of all sorts so we generally gather at venues within reasonable travelling distance from home which regularly includes London. Members suggest suitable locations for the months ahead, and the annual programme is compiled by the group leader. Outings are of course selected for their photographic interest and often follow the form of; meeting for coffee and/or lunch then either exploring together as a group or in small numbers. We might then meet up again for afternoon tea where the members discuss what they have seen through the day. At least once a year the group visits a photographic exhibition to see how others do it. Review meetings are held about twice a year. Their main purpose is to give members the chance to examine photos that the group have taken during the previous period, to appreciate their successes and learn from the problems that they inevitably encounter. These days most images are displayed digitally. The Photography Group is a friendly group of those with a keen interest in our subject. It does not require any expensive equipment and so we attract both ex-professionals and amateurs alike. We do not compete with one another but share a common interest and benefit greatly from the support and the encouragement of our peers.

Play Reading 1     

Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesdays am
Normally starts 09:45 to 12:00
Details The play reading group meets to read a wide range of plays: drama, comedy, mystery and more! From playwrights both modern and a little less modern, well-known and less known. Plays are chosen for the correct number of characters to ensure that everyone a part, although sometimes people have to double-up. Everybody has a script and members take it in turn to "produce" a play, sorting out the cast and giving the directions in the script. Whilst we are not performing we do try to inject life into the script to make it lively and entertaining. Over many years we have read dozens of plays and have yet to run out of a supply-or enthusiasm.

Poetry For Pleasure     

Meets 2nd Wednesday pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details We read and discuss the work of one or two poets that we have nominated at the previous meeting. Members are also invited to read poetry of their choice. Poets we have considered recently included: Pope, Stevie Smith, Nigel Forde,Browning, Wordsworth and Shakespeare.

Poetry Reading 1     

Meets 2nd Wednesday pm
Normally starts 14:15 to 16:15
Details We read and discuss poetry. Meetings generally focus on a particular poet chosen in advance and we take it in turns to read selected poems.

Psychology     

Meets 1st Thursday
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details This is a recently (2023) formed self help group. We are currently working our way through a book called Psychology for Dummies which gives an introduction to various aspects of this broad ranging science. We still have available spaces for anyone who missed the initial call for members.

Pub Quiz     

Meets Wednesday Evenings
Normally starts 20:00 to 22:00
Details Pit your wits with our U3A team in convivial surroundings. Do you enjoy TV quizzes? Do you sometimes think that you could do better than the contestants? Why not join our Pub Quiz team?   Wednesday Evenings at The Plough, Church Lane, Redhill

Railway Studies 1     

Meets 2nd Tuesday am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details Over the years since the group was formed its members have produced and presented a wide range of topics with railways at the centre. We have heard about the Rainhill Trials in 1829 when Rocket showed a new way of building locomotives, the development and use of a particular type of locomotive, looked at the many sketches, paintings and photographs by well known artists depicting the railways and talked about the ordinary people who worked for the railways and were their mainstay. For a few years an annual visit, recently inviting Group 2 to join us as well, to a railway location has taken place.These have included trips to the Bluebell Railway where, thanks to our leader, arrangements to see behind the scenes were made, to a local model railway enthusiast and to mainline stations such as Kings Cross and St Pancras to see how they have progressed since the vast changes in railway operation have been in operation. There are so many facets to this subject that many more ideas for topics are being considered when planning ahead takes place.

Railway Studies 2     

Meets 1st Wednesday am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details Railway Studies Group 2 has been running since April 2017 in close cooperation with Group 1. Most years several successful talks from one group are repeated for the other group. There are 8 regular members, one of whom usually brings along a model and explains the history of the class - all manner of Southern and London North Eastern classes have been particular favourites. We update ourselves on local railway matters, such as the recently the collapse of the embankments near Edenbridge, for example.  Members are always encouraged to bring along for discussion a piece of railway ephemera, or a cutting, or a story they have read, though this is not compulsory. Each meeting will have a major focus, the usual idea being someone gives a talk of about 45 minutes to an hour. Recent topics have included the Harz Mountain Railway (linked to a U3A visit to Germany), the Tattenham Corner line, Railway hotels, the Immingham Docks of the Great Central, the British Transport Police and semaphore signals from the north-west to the south-east of England. Talks are usually supported by a series Powerpoint photos using the TV screen. It's an eclectic mix, naturally dependent on the will and time of the members. Until this year, we have had the joy of visiting a member's Great Railway Garden layout for one of our outdoor summer meetings and have enjoyed the rock cakes provided.

RUG - AV team     

Meets First Fridays and ad-hoc
Normally starts 13:00 to 16:00
Details This team operate the Audio Visual equipment at Reigate Park Church for the monthly meeting, and occasionally at other venues for ad-hoc events.

RUG - Consultation Group     

Meets NULL
Details Consultation group established 2023 following survey of 2022

RUG - Entertainment planning     

Meets NULL
Details The main organising team for entertainment events.

RUG - Furniture shifters     

Meets Generally Friday monthly meetings
Details Crew to set up tables and chairs, usually at Friday meetings at South Park Church and Coffee Mornings. May also post directional signs at Coffee Mornings and occasional ad hoc venues.

RUG - Here & Now     

Meets NULL
Details The editorial team for the magazine Here & Now

RUG - Holiday planning     

Meets NULL
Details The planning team for rru3a holidays

RUG - Outings team     

Meets NULL
Details The planning and organising team for rru3a outings

RUG - Parking team     

Meets Generally Fridays and ad hoc
Details Crew to organise parking. Generally at Friday meetings at Reigate Park Church, and occasionally at other venues.

RUG - Speakers     

Meets NULL
Details 

RUG - Tea Helpers     

Meets 
Details Really Useful Group members who volunteer to help with refreshments at U3A meetings.

RUG - Website support     

Meets NULL
Details Shirley Harnett manages the website with editorial support from the others in the list

RUGS Technical Support     

Meets Flexible
Details This group helps u3A members with technical queries about the use of technology (smartphone, tablets of PCs) either via initial e-mail contact, or at the monthly coffee mornings.

RUGS Welcome Team     

Meets 
Details Really Useful Group members who welcome other members and visitors to the monthly Friday meetings

Rummikub 1     

Meets 1st & 3rd Wednesdays pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details Rummikub is a tile-based game for two to four players.Members pitch their wits against one another to win at this challenging tile game.

Rummikub 2     

Meets 3rd Thursday pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details Rummikub is a tile-based game for two to four players. Members pitch their wits against one another to win at this challenging tile game.

Science     

Meets 2nd Friday am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details We are a lovely mix of people, from different backgrounds, who meet monthly in each others homes. We have enquiring minds and are able to think "outside-the-box". Some members have spent years working in laboratories, others just have a broad interest in how things work. There are no brain surgeons or rocket scientists among us-thus far, anyway! The format of each meeting is usually that one member presents a presentation of about an hour on whatever subject they have chosen to research. This is followed by coffee and amiable, science-focussed chat. The subject range is very wide. Examples from last year are: Brewing, Combustion Engines, Darwin's The Origin of Species, Paper Manufacture, Radioactivity, Science and Philosophy and Storage of electric power. We do have a list of many subjects, though many members are keen to research their own. So, we learn all the time, even if we're not great at remembering it all-and it's always fun!

Scrabble 2     

Meets Ad Hoc
Details We play a couple of games of friendly Scrabble during which those of us who are more experienced can offer advice to those less so and hopefully this helps to improve their game and obtain higher scores.

Scrabble 3     

Meets 4th Friday pm
Normally starts 14:30 to 16:30
Details We play a couple of games of friendly Scrabble during which those of us who are more experienced can offer advice to those less so and hopefully this helps to improve their game and obtain higher scores.

Serendipity 1     

Meets Thursday last am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details Each member of the group contributes their take on a pre-agreed word, preferably one capable of different meanings, thus producing a serendipity collection of facts  and anecdotes. For example, we've had: Line: Whitby steam railway, Balaclavas Thin Red Line, Latitude & Longitude, and line drawing. Current/Currant: Current accounts, ocean currents, and baking currants. Court: Magistrates Court, court shoes, Queen Elizabeth Is court and her courting of Dudley. Pitch: marketing pitch, perfect pitch, stall pitch and publication pitch. Sight/Site/Cite: Guide Dogs for the Blind, the site of ancient Kaunos, eyesight of crustaceans, manure sites, and a recital of a citation.

Sewing Buddies     

Meets 3rd Wednesday of month
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details Sewing Buddies was restarted at the beginning of 2023 with three of the original group and four new members. We meet on the third Wednesday of each month from 2-4pm. We are interested in making and altering clothes mainly for ourselves. We share ideas, information and sewing skills. We have been venturing into recycling and adapting existing clothes and learning how to alter patterns. Our skills set vary but our enthusiasm is strong!

Sewing Buddies 2     

Meets 1st Wednesday
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details Following the success of the original Sewing Buddies, this is a new group for 2024. The focus is on making and altering clothes mainly for ourselves, sharing ideas, information and sewing skills. We also consider how to recycle and adapt existing clothes and learn how to alter patterns. The skills within the group may vary but we are all enthusiastic and eager to learn.

Singing For Pleasure     

Meets 2nd & 4th Weds am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details This group is designed, just as the title indicates, for members of the U3A to enjoy a morning of accompanied singing. We are an enthusiastic group singing a wide range of music - but so far we have chosen to steer clear of classical and church music. We occasionally perform on an informal basis, and we are constantly updating our repertoire. First and foremost, we have fun.

Spanish Conversation     

Meets 1st & 3rd Weds am
Normally starts 10:30 to 12:30
Details Our Spanish expertise ranges from reasonably proficient to bilingual. We start a meeting by each talking about what we have done since the previous meeting; this usually leads to questions and the conversation may take various directions. Once we have exhausted the conversation, we read out loud a newspaper article, usually from El País, on a topic of interest. We do not translate into English, but we do occasionally need to focus on a point of grammar or the meaning of a specific word in context. If there is still time, we may discuss the events or points of view described in the article. We have started a Spanish exchange with a town in Northern Spain.

Spanish Improvers     

Meets 2nd & 4th Weds pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details This group is working at about AS level. We have used various text books to gain vocabulary and a solid understanding of grammar. We use other sources of Spanish too. During a typical meeting, we will read out loud and discuss a topical item from the Spanish press, perform a role-play designed to develop real-life conversational skills, undertake a listening or grammar exercise and exchange news on what is happening in our daily lives.

Tales and Music     

Meets Tuesday 21 March 2023
Details Entertainment by MID8DLE and Narrative Writing 1

Theatre Outings     

Meets As Arranged
Details Theatre visits are arranged for productions in London as well as in more local theatres. We travel by mini bus, or coach, with a pickup point in both Redhill and Reigate. Most visits are to matinees, so we aim to arrive a couple of hours before the start of the performance in order to have time for shopping/lunch. For evening performances, we tend at plan to arrive an hour or so before the start of the performance.

Travel Group     

Meets 4th Monday pm
Normally starts 14:00 to 16:00
Details If you have enjoyed visiting places around the UK and further afield, why not share your experiences and join our friendly Travel Group? We meet in each other's homes to talk about our past, present and future travel, usually illustrated with photos or videos, maps and pamphlets. Our group has varied interests such as walking holidays, sightseeing, cruises, photography and many more.

Treasure Trails     

Meets Monthly
Normally starts 10:30 to 00:00
Details This group had its first visit on March 16th 2022. Working in groups of no more than 4 members, we will be following directions and solving clues using published Treasure Trails, as a way of exploring local towns and areas of London, then meeting up at a cafe or pub at the end for refreshments. Trails are approximately 2 miles in length.

Ukulele     

Meets 2nd & 4th Weds am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details The ukulele is a fun instrument and comes in a range of sizes and styles from the vary small Soprano up to the Bass ukulele. Our members have a variety of different ukuleles, the most popular being the Concert. We also have some Banjoleles in the group which are great for playing when we are outside or playing in a big space. We are a group of 9 people from very different backgrounds and we have fun whilst playing our music. We meet in members’ homes which puts a limit on our numbers but we are about the right mix to make it enjoyable. We try to do the odd performances to stretch ourselves and share the ukulele fun.

Walking     

Meets 2nd Mon & 4th Thurs
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details Anyone is welcome to walk with us. Our walks are usually three and a half to four miles in length and I email everyone the necessary details for each walk. I do have a contact list of over 50 people, of which 20 to 30 regularly walk with us, just not all at the same time. We always welcome new walkers but I do not organise lifts for people so transport is essential.

Wine Appreciation 2     

Meets 3rd Wednesday
Normally starts 19:30 to 22:00
Details We meet in each other's, normally on the 3rd Thursday of the month. The meeting starts at 7:30pm and usually ends by 10pm at the latest. The host of the meeting chooses the wine, and the region or country from which it originates.

Writing For Pleasure 2     

Meets 3rd Friday am
Normally starts 10:00 to 12:00
Details We write poetry or prose and suggest possible topics for the next meeting, but these are optional and anything goes! We read them out and enjoy each other's contributions and company.

Xmas Tea 2022     

Meets Friday 2 December
Details Nora Blyth - non member booked but not paid.

Yoga 1     

Meets Friday as arranged
Normally starts 10:00 to 11:30
Details Keep fit and healthy with regular exercise and gentle movement. This group has been running for several years by an experienced Yoga teacher. We are lucky to have the use of a magnificent room at the Yoga Ananda Centre in Reigate where all equipment, including mats, blankets, bolsters etc is provided so members just come wearing loose comfortable clothing, although one or two have their own mats, or may be purchased at the Centre if you would prefer to own your own. Meets by arrangement, usually on Fridays Cost : £3 per session