to ask for your ideas and recommendations please

[willieverever]

I need to make new friends and would love suggestions or recommendations of something to do (club to join or similar) to help this. I am a single woman over 35.

I have done alot of volunteering so am looking for something different really.

Any thoughts or ideas for clubs, societies or regular activities to join to meet people and develop some new friends and friendship groups?

I can't sing so choirs etc are out and I'm not keen on the idea of amateur dramatics so am feeling a bit stumped

Do you work op? Any chance of making friends with colleagues?
Is there something that you've done at another point in your life maybe at school or thru volunteering that you enjoyed?

If you're looking for something different, how about scuba diving? Look up your local club on the British Sub Aqua Club website (www.bsac.com). Most clubs have a social side, as well as the diving. You'll be able to go for a try dive for a nominal fee.

We practice one evening a week in a local deep pool, go for a drink afterwards, have meals out and trips away.

Don't worry about being 'too fat' as you say, that's not a barrier.

I joined a local netball group at 40 and I was "too fat to run". They are a great bunch from diverse backgrounds.

I tried adult education classes and various meet up groups. They went about as well for me as they did for you, but I didn't let it put me off. Keep trying OP - you will find your tribe somewhere.

Have you tried thinkingbob? Lots of different social activities, lots in London... definitely check it out

We have a local supper club that has a wide range of people attending - you might look for something like that as well. Everyone is friendly and welcoming.

Yoga?

Although tbh it seems like you're self sabotaging a bit by ruling everything out before trying it...

Although tbh it seems like you're self sabotaging a bit by ruling everything out before trying it..

Thanks for that. You obviously haven't read what I posted because I'm saying I HAVE tried these things and didn't work.

Running club - didn't like it, no one socialised afterwards, couldn't do it now anyway.
Volunteering - done it a lot and don't want to do it any more.
Adult Education - done lots of courses. All were very study and leave. There was no group cohesion or socialising.
Meet up style groups - experience as detailed above.

I have done yoga regularly for years and in my class again no one speaks to each other. Maybe the odd word exchanged while waiting for the class but it's not a friendship type thing where I go. People do yoga in silence and do not mix really before or afterwards.

My work is not really a socialising place. Most people keep themselves to themselves and don't even get lunch together; most have child care responsibilities and leave straight away. I tried suggesting a group lunch but no one was interested ("too busy").

I think you only really build friendships when you see people regularly in a way that gives social interaction. I'm slow to open up and get to know people.

I will look into local book clubs and WI - thanks. Never thought about scuba diving but will have a look at that too.