Lewisham Loop - Issue 24 ✨

Late August is refusing to wind down quietly. We’ve got writers getting words onto pages, bumblebee spotting on Blackheath, a free youth dance workshop, a proper Lewisham Sports Day and enough Thursday-night percussion to make Friday feel slightly early.

Need to actually write the thing rather than think about writing the thing? Just Write It! gives you an hour of quiet writing followed by an hour of constructive feedback and discussion. It’s run by award-winning writer Ella Dorman-Gajic with support from Maddy Accalia, and you can bring work along to share if you fancy a second pair of eyes.

Tickets are pay-what-you-decide, from £3–£10. Book or read more about the event here.

_{Note: Ages 16+}

Spend three hours on Blackheath learning how to spot bumblebees and wildflowers with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust. The session combines a BeeWalk with a wildflower survey, with pots, nets, quadrats and ID help provided — so enthusiasm is more important than arriving with an encyclopedic knowledge of bees.

It’s free, but you will need to register. Book here.

For 12–15-year-olds who fancy trying something new, this free workshop moves through musical theatre, ballet and commercial dance in one afternoon. There’s choreography, creative movement and absolutely no requirement to already know what you’re doing. Frankly, a useful rule for most of August.

Entry is free, but spots do have to be reserved through here. More info about the Youth Theatre organisation/ venue can also be found here.

Ladywell Arena is getting a full Sports Day treatment, with 100m, 200m and 400m races, long jump, high jump, mixed relays and tug of war, with prizes available! There’s also face painting, games, a food truck and a chill-out zone for anyone whose athletic contribution peaks at enthusiastic spectating. Arrive by 1pm if you want to sign up for the races.

Entry is free, but arrive before 1pm to sign up for the races. Find out more or book a spot here.

Before heading to Notting Hill Carnival, Dendê Nation are bringing their Afro-Brazilian samba-reggae energy to the Fox & Firkin, joined by Reggae Choir and special guest Marivaldo Paim of Ilê Aiyê. Expect drumming, singing, dancing and plenty of audience participation — this is not really a stand-at-the-back-with-your-arms-folded sort of evening.

General admission tickets are priced at £12, with £5 concession tickets still available but down to the last few. Tickets can be booked through the Fox & Firkin’s website here.

_{Note: This event is 18+}

📱 Catbytes Digital Drop-Ins Sydenham - Monday 24 August, 10am–12pm at Sydenham Community Library. Free help with WhatsApp, email and everyday tech questions, with Wi-Fi and a few spare tablets available. No booking needed. Details here.

🧘 Mindful Mondays - Monday 24 August, 7pm–9pm at Corbett Community Library. A free evening of meditation, slow walking and mindful discussion. No booking required, which already feels pleasingly low-stress. Details here.

🎶 Rhyme Time at Forest Hill Community Library - Tuesday 25 August, 10am–10:30am. A free half-hour of songs and stories for ages five and under, with no booking needed. Small-person entertainment before elevenses: sorted. Details here.

📚 Forest Hill Reading Group - Wednesday 26 August, 6pm–7pm at Forest Hill Community Library. A free monthly reading-group meet-up with no booking required. Ideal if your relationship with books could currently use a little accountability. Details here.

👶 Baby Bounce - Thursday 27 August, 2:15pm–3:15pm at Deptford Lounge. Free songs, rhymes and stories especially for babies and toddlers. No booking needed — just turn up with the small person and whatever remains of your Thursday energy. Details here.

🎬 Deptford Library Cinema Club - Discussion Group - Thursday 27 August, 6pm–7pm at Deptford Lounge. The last Thursday of the month swaps the usual screening for a relaxed film discussion, complete with fellow film fans and biscuits. Free, no booking required. Details here.

See you on Friday ~