Clubs, groups and that sort of thing...

So, many of you know that my boyfriend and I split in November and after wallowing for a while- it's time for me to get back into the swing of things!  I even went on a date last week, and while it didn't end up working out, this girl is back in 2011!!

I would like to find some sort of club or something to join so that I can make more friends here.  Something active would be great, and I've already done a bit of research into running clubs.  I like all things active, and I just want to do something fun and energetic. 

I'm not all that interested in the stuff at school, as I'm 29 and I'd like to meet people closer to my age.  I plan on moving into the city centre as soon as my Student Loan shows up, which should be next week sometime.  Any ideas?  It doesn't have to be active, that's just all I've been able to think of so far.  I would appreciate any input.

Have you tried Meetup.com for Leeds?

Or Gumtree

Don't know what you're into, Sarah, but if you're interested in taking a class for fun, what about Swarthmore Education Centre (Woodhouse Square)? Their website seems a little messed up at the moment but I think they used to have clubs as well as classes. Don't the leisure centres offer group outings or whatever? If you look online there are things like canoe clubs and chess clubs to name two. Check a public library to see if there is anything interesting on their notice boards (although think they're closing a lot of libraries  )

Library notice boards are a great resource! If you're active, you might want to try a rambling club, cycling or even photography (which would get you out and doing things as well).

For less active things, look into art classes, knitting classes, book groups, etc. Try a local college or art club, art supply shop, knitting shop, bookshop, etc. to see if they know what's going on.

Do you like rambling?  It looks like there is a rambler's association in Leeds.  You can meet people and do some walking in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside if that's your sort of thing.

http://www.leedsramblers.co.uk/#/february-1/4545188752

There's a list of cycling clubs here and I also found a Leeds photography club here. And here's a hillwalking/hiking club.

Thanks!  All these ideas sound fun and I really appreciate the input.   

What about British Military Fitness? Personally, I'd rather poke myself in the eye with a rusty nail, but some people seem to enjoy it.

The Civic Trust runs lectures and guided walks if you're interested in learning more about Leeds    www.leedscivictrust.org.uk

Yeah, Chary- looked at the site.  Pass the rusty nail. 

I just joined meetup.com (thanks Balmerhon) and I may go bowling on Friday night with the Leeds Social group.  The cycling clubs look nice as well, but I don't have a bicycle yet. 

Do you think the rambling clubs would have folks near my age? 

Do you think the rambling clubs would have folks near my age? 

I know the outdoors society at Uni of York which did weekly rambles was one of the most popular clubs on campus with 30 something PhDs to 18 year old undergrads.  I think it's something that appeals across age groups.  Heck, I'm 28 and I like rambling when I find the time. 

I know the outdoors society at Uni of York which did weekly rambles was one of the most popular clubs on campus with 30 something PhDs to 18 year old undergrads.  I think it's something that appeals across age groups.  Heck, I'm 28 and I like rambling when I find the time. 

Thanks Persephone!  I think I'll have to give a rambling club a go.   

Thanks Persephone!  I think I'll have to give a rambling club a go.   

I hope you enjoy it!  I have a friend who became single over a year ago, and it took her a while to find a club that fit her so just keep yourself open to possibilities and try a few things that look interesting.  You'll get there. 

My advice is to keep an open mind- try something that sounds interesting- even if its not exactly your cup of tea, you may love it so give it a shot, nothing to lose.  If you hate it, try something else.  For me, I search in the library boards, the various schools I find myself in, search the local papers, scour the local theatre brochures, and ask my friends to recommend find things that are interesting. 
Good luck, I think it's so fantastic that you're not letting this eat you up and you're gonna get out there and take over Leeds!!