Hi everyone,
What wonderful weather we are having. There is nothing quite like getting the garden up to scratch, in my case that’s what you call optimism. I always feel at peace in the garden, it’s a great healer and gives a different perspective. The simple things in life are the most rewarding. The Committee are beavering away with all the arrangements for Open House at the moment. A big thank you to our Group Leaders for your prompt replies, you have no idea how helpful this is. We hope you will all enjoy the morning as Libby has organised a great entertainment programme for you, along with more chairs !!!! It never ceases to amaze me how innovative the u3a membership is. I look forward to welcoming you to Bourne Hall on 11th May 2026 at 10.00am. Take care of yourselves.
Best Wishes - Sybi - Chair - u3a Epsom and Ewell
Monday May 11th 10.00am - 12.00noon – Bourne Hall, Ewell
Discover Epsom & Ewell u3a at Our Open House!
Curious about what the Epsom & Ewell u3a has to offer? Join us at our Open House Event, your perfect opportunity to explore a vibrant community of learning, friendship, and fun for those in later life.
Whether you’re a potential member eager to try something new, or a current member wanting to catch up on activities, this event is for you. Meet our friendly group leaders and committee members, discover our wide range of interest groups, and see first-hand how our members learn, create, and socialise together.
From arts and crafts, music, languages, and literature, to walking groups, history, and technology, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions, discover our website, and even sign up on the spot. The Open House is more than just an introduction, it’s our “shop window,” showcasing the richness of U3A life.
Come along, explore new possibilities, and perhaps find a hobby, a friend, or a new passion.
In April a group of Songbirds had the pleasure of entertaining the folk at the United Reform Church in Banstead with an afternoon of great songs from the 60's and 70's. There was much audience participation and smiles all round.
We were kindly given refreshments afterwards and a donation which will be passed onto Guide Dogs for the Blind as usual.
This was the Songbirds first performance of 2026 and Monday May 11th will be our second, as we will be performing, once again, at the U3A Open House in Bourne Hall. Happy days.
Garden Visiting Group
This month our group went to Kent to visit Emmett's Gardens near Sevenoaks in search of bluebells.
We went during the Easter holidays so were expecting company on our trip around the various themes garden areas. It was certainly busy at times but we still found ourselves alone in many beautiful places and we squeezed into a lovely warm sunny spot for lunch at the cafe on top of the hill (much needed after walking the steep slopes).
This garden is immensely proud of its wonderful bluebell valley which was at its peak, glowing blue and lilac in the dappled shade. However it had many other spring attractions that kept us busy, including lovely tulips, a rock garden and cherry blossom.
The Architectural Explorers group is a group of around 18 members who visit the local area and beyond to discover the often-overlooked architecture.
We are an outdoor group primarily, but we also attend talks and visits whenever a suitable opportunity arises.
The group currently have space for more members and would welcome enquiries from interested members. You can contact the group leader via the contact form on their page of our website.
Exploring London 11 - This month the group wandered around part of Islington, exploring the quiet back streets away from the hustle and bustle. We discovered historic buildings, quirky shop fronts and learned about the fascinating history of this area. Our walk ended in the Culpeper Community Garden, which is lovingly maintained by the local community and is a little oasis amongst all the buildings.
We then rested our weary feet at a very nice pub and enjoyed some tasty food.
Exploring Architecture Group outing to Marylebone
This month nine of our members took to the streets of Marylebone to see the outstanding architecture, museums, churches, business premises, and universities.
Starting at Baker Street we saw the Planetarium, the John Nash buildings and the amazing bank headquarters.
Then we were lucky enough to be met by a student at the Royal College of Music who gave us insight on their buildings use and recent concert hall development.
But this was only the start of our adventures.
We managed to find information about the design of Marylebone station then wandered into the grand station hotel for a glimpse of the palm court.
And onwards towards even more stunning places.
Thank you Rosy, a great day's visit.
The next meeting of the
Joint Science Group is on 6th May,
Dr Keith Davies will give
a talk on:
What Makes Genetically
Modified Crops Distasteful?
Details are in the poster
You don’t need to pre-book, just turn up.
The following meeting will be on 1 July when Mike Sheenan will talk about
Optical Illusions, Art and the Brain.
If you have any questions, please email epsomu3ascience@btinternet.com
TheTicket only Theatre Group currently have seats available for the following three shows:
Cyrano de Bergerac Wednesday July 8th £49.50 (matinee)
Comedy About Spies Tuesday September 15th £35 (evening performance)
Cirque Alice Thursday December 17th £58.50 (matinee)
If you are interested in theatre trips please sign up to our mailing list for early notification.
Our most recent offer for The Cherry Orchard starring Kristen Scott Thomas went on sale at midday on Thursday 30th April and we had sold out of our allocation by 5.42am on May 1st.
Opera Group
Wed. June 24th
Our Opera Group have engaged Demelza Stafford for an afternoon of music, storytelling and laughter. Full details via the link above.
Groups with vacancies
We have several groups that have vacancies for more members or who are not limited by their numbers for any of their events. Our Jazz, Bridge, Coffee Club and Theatre group are always open to more members. Exploring Architecture, Creative Writing, Walking and several others currently have vacancies.
Further information about group vacancies will be available at our Open House showcase on Monday May 11th from 10.00-12noon
Exploring London 8 enjoyed Phil's first walk in April which started with coffee at the Salvation Army HQ Cafe near St Pauls Cathedral. (excellent value for money)
We discovered some fascinating architecture and stories. The Sanctuary is dedicated to St Andrew By The Wardrobe, the title comes from the Kings Great Wardrobe which housed the Royal stores and ceremonial robes.
Help Shape the Fun Side of our u3a
We’ve had lots of enquiries about social events, and it’s clear our members are keen to get out, meet up, and enjoy time together. To make that happen, we’re looking for enthusiastic members to help set up a limited number of get-together events for members enjoymant.
What’s involved?
- Working together as part of an informal team
- One or two social committee meetings per year, probably at Bourne Hall to consider options over a cup of tea.
- Ideas might include coach trips, walk-and-talk outings, or other relaxed summer activities
- The committee will take care of advertising, bookings, and payments
- Former Social Committee members are happy to offer advice and guidance
u3a is a members-for-members organisation, run by volunteers who help keep it vibrant, social, and welcoming. This is a chance to share ideas, meet new people, and help create events that members genuinely enjoy — without a heavy commitment.
If interested please contact Rachel (vice-chair) rachel.raywood@googlemail.com