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Making friends in a new city is a daunting prospect for many expats. Your friends back home might simply suggest going to the pub and striking up a conversation with the nearest stranger, but forming lasting connections this way isn't always easy. Clubs and societies in London offer more structured opportunities to meet people. You'll likely encounter people with similar interests and backgrounds, meaning you'll have some common ground on which to build a connection.
Clubs come in all shapes and sizes, some with brick-and-mortar locations and others organised through social networks with changing venues and a consistent calendar of events to choose from. Most encourage hosting guests, enjoying refreshments, forming new personal and professional relationships and interests, and delighting in new or old habits. Whatever you're looking for, you are sure to find it in London.
Expat clubs in London
London is an extremely diverse city that draws people from all over the world, and you will be glad to know that there are plenty of expat clubs and societies to help you feel more at home.
From expat groups aimed at particular nationalities to clubs exclusively for professional networking or for expat women, London has it all.
These groups are just a click away and are a great place to get support and information about the trials and tribulations of expat life in London.
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Social activity clubs in London
Thanks to social media and an increasingly connected world, social activity clubs are flourishing. Organisers plan gatherings that include activities ranging from sporting events and social parties to occasions focused on hobbies such as reading or playing an instrument.
Unlike traditional clubs, they need not be limited to one kind of event, location, or special interest, but can include a broad range of options published in monthly calendars. Your interests determine upcoming events, which are often based on members' preferences.
Membership itself may come at a nominal cost, sometimes a one-time joining fee, and may or may not be open to anyone.
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Sports clubs in London
Athletes, sports fans or both will find opportunities to actively participate in or spectate a sport of their choice. You can watch and enjoy a veritable A-to-Z of sports in a host of London venues: pitches, courts, sports fields, leisure facilities, and recreation areas.
Sports clubs include those dedicated to specific organised teams or leagues as well as fitness and leisure centres that include state-of-the-art gyms, studios and classes, and recreational centres with tennis courts, running trails, and more. A choice of annual or monthly memberships is usually available, generally with a registration fee upfront.
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Members-only clubs in London
If you are looking for an exclusive membership experience, you may look to a private, members-only institution. Some have a traditional clubhouse, bar, or restaurant where members gather, while others may offer overnight accommodation or the use of various facilities worldwide.
These clubs may have waiting lists and often long application processes that may depend on being nominated and voted in by existing members. Monthly or annual membership fees, as well as membership entitlements, may vary considerably. Membership can sometimes be passed on to friends or family and may include reciprocal global locations to enjoy while travelling or when returning home. Additionally, there are clubs that offer affordable packages along with relaxed membership policies.