HGS U3A Monthly Talks

Our monthly talks are held at the HGS Free Church, North Square, London NW11 7AG. Doors open at 14:30, and the talk begins promptly at 15:00, concluding at 16:00. The venue is fully accessible, with disabled toilet facilities available. We look forward to welcoming you.

Group Activities

For information about regular group activities, please see the A-Z list of groups and groups listed by day.

Monthly Talk: Suez—A Botched Operation Caused by a Botched Operation?

HGS Free Church North Square, London

Antony Eden, a distinguished soldier and foreign secretary succeeded Churchill as the next Conservative Prime Minister.  Yet he will be remembered for the abject diplomatic failure of Britain’s desire to retain control of the Suez Canal in 1956.  He was a sick man at the height of the Suez crisis having suffered the consequences of botched surgery.  In this

Monthly Talk: Charlemagne—Warrior and Architect of Europe

A formidable warrior and devout Christian king, Charlemagne expanded his empire, relentlessly fighting to unite lands and eradicate paganism. Crowned the first Holy Roman Emperor in 801, his reign brought stability, earning him the title "Father of Europe". Despite being illiterate, he fostered a cultural and intellectual revival—the Carolingian Renaissance—establishing a renowned court, promoting education,

Monthly Talk: Staying Safe in Today’s World

HGS Free Church North Square, London

Join a member of the local police team for a practical and informative session designed especially for older adults. The talk will cover how to stay safe at home, when out and about, and online. Topics include how to spot and avoid common scams, fraud prevention, home security tips, personal safety, recognising and reporting suspicious

New Members Meeting

Are you new to HGS u3a or already a member? Join us for our New Members' Meeting at the HGS Free Church, North Square, London NW11 7AG — a friendly gathering to meet fellow members, chat with Chair Carole Spiers and group organisers Tina Stanton and Malcolm Brahams, share your thoughts, and explore group sessions.

Monthly Talk: Climate Change—What’s Next?

HGS Free Church North Square, London

Climate change continues to accelerate, and while the solutions are clear—reducing fossil fuel use, eating less meat, and consuming less—progress remains insufficient. The vision of a low-carbon society with energy-efficient homes, renewable energy, and sustainable lifestyles has yet to be realized. Addressing climate change requires strong national and international action, ensuring benefits are shared, especially

Monthly Talk: George Gershwin—Bridging Jazz and Classical Genius

HGS Free Church North Square, London

George Gershwin (1898–1937) was a musical genius of the 20th century who seamlessly blended classical music with the rhythms of jazz. A prolific composer, conductor, and pianist, he created over 500 songs with his lyricist brother Ira, contributing to iconic films and musicals such as A Star is Born and An American in Paris. His