On Saturday, November 7, 2026, we have :
- AGM: The club AGM starts at 12:30 (card-carrying members only)
Speaking at 2.45 pm, we have:
1st: Michael Smith – Towards the Coldest Place
Join acclaimed polar historian Michael Smith as he brings to life the extraordinary 2,000‑year quest to reach the end of the Earth. Based on his forthcoming book Towards the Coldest Place, this talk uncovers the surprising origins of Antarctic exploration—from an ancient Greek obelisk to the accidental discovery of the continent itself.
Michael Smith introduces the colourful cast who shaped this frozen frontier: the Norwegian opportunist who claimed a dubious first landing, the kilted piper serenading a baffled penguin, and the French captain who met the ice with champagne in hand. At its heart lies the gripping, fateful duel between Amundsen and Scott, whose contrasting choices still echo a century later.
This is a dramatic, human story of courage, obsession and endurance in the world’s most unforgiving landscape—and of the explorers whose feats continue to define our fascination with Antarctica.
Four of the Pole party stand by tent with Norwegian flag. A pair of skis lie on the snow with ski poles standing next to them (variation made by Ponting from original photograph taken by Henry Bowers).
2nd: Nick Marchant – One Footfall after Another.
In 2010, Nick Marchant started walking. Every year since, Nick has continued to do a long, summer walk of between 75 and 100 miles with his pal Ray, exploring many of the ancient pilgrimage ways and national trails throughout the UK, and recently, in France.
Nick reflects on the revelation of walking – the simple activity which is a physical challenge, yet which also unlocks so many surprising thoughts, ideas and reflections. As the landscape slowly moves, so does our inner world. Nick describes recent trips, what we can gain from the simple act of walking, and what it has taught him about himself, friendship and the world around him.
The talk by Louis D Hall, ‘Into the Mouth of the Wolf’, has been postponed until next year.
Date & Time: Saturday 7th November 2026
Doors open at 14:15 in London and on Zoom with the talks starting around 14:45 (London see Event Time Announcer for local times), please arrive before 14:45 and switch your phone to “do not disturb” or silent.
We would ask that anyone with respiratory symptoms participate via Zoom.
Admission costs:
- £7 for members. (Members can access a ticket code below (Log in))
- £10 for non-members. (save £3 if you join at this meeting)
- a recording to watch later will be available to members and non-member ticket holders.
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For members tickets:
Members can access a ticket code by logging in. (Log in)
RIGHT OF ADMISSION RESERVED.
Admission is at the Club’s sole discretion. The Club may refuse entry to, or require any person to leave, at any time where the Club reasonably considers it appropriate for safety, security, capacity, compliance with law, or orderly conduct.