Betty is 16.5m x 9m room with a state-of-the-art AV system the perfect space for theatrical performances, live music events, film screenings, launches and more. Betty is separated from our café area using a 59dB rated partition wall, so you ‘ll be able to move between areas – but sound won’t. Chairs, Tables, AV System and projectors all included in your hire.

Staff Onsite Fees for out of hours Hire

Betty

Charity/ Artist Rate

Community Price

Community Weekend Rate

At 5.3m x 5.3m, Mike’s smaller than Betty but just as functional and ideal for meetings, presentations, yoga classes, rehearsals, auditions and more. Chairs, Tables, AV System and projectors all included in your hire.

Mike Room

Poplar Union

We at Poplar Union are dedicated to providing a wide range of events and activities to benefit our community. Our upcoming events include health and fitness classes for women, Children's dance sessions, line dancing get-togethers, drawing and drama clubs for kids, and various other workshops and classes such as Yoga, Pilates and meditation. We also host special festivals that brings our community together such as supper clubs and music events. 

Our aim is to create a welcoming and inclusive space for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together, learn new skills, and have fun. Through these events, we strive to promote physical and mental well-being, creativity, and community engagement.

We cater to a diverse range of individuals, including women from low-income households, families, children, and the elderly. Our events are designed to be inclusive and accessible to people with disabilities and those from different ethnic and racial backgrounds. By providing a variety of activities, we aim to address the specific needs and interests of different groups within our community. 

Welcome to the Women's Health Class at Poplar Union! Come join us starting on Mondays at 10:00 AM for a fun and informative session focused on women's health. Learn about nutrition, exercise, mental well-being, and more in a supportive and welcoming environment. This event is perfect for women of all fitness levels. Don't miss out on this opportunity to prioritise your health and wellness. Designed for people who don't want to exercise in a mixed environment, or those who are on a low income or referred by their health practitioners. Please note: the class capacity is 20 people. To make sure you have a spot reserved, book in advance. Please cancel your booking if you know you can no longer attend. Please come to class on time. We will close the entrance 15 minutes into the session to avoid disrupting the flow of the class.

Along with putting on in-house events, we have two great multi-functional, high-spec spaces available to hire. Betty, our large studio space, and Mike, our meeting room, can be used for performances, live music, meetings, launches, creative workshops, film and photography shoots and much more.Hire a space at Poplar Union, and you’ll also have the option to make use of our excellent general facilities: our in-house café, Poplar Bakehouse; catering*; baby change facilities; and full disabled access.Our office opening times are 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday, but we will occasionally be open for shows and bookings outside of these hours. If you require access to the venue outside of regular opening hours, please let us know by calling 020 3039 3333 or email hire@poplarunion.com

Hello,Thank you for your booking. We’re pleased to confirm your reservation at Poplar Union.<h3>What to Expect</h3><ul><li>Please arrive 10 minutes early to allow for setup or check‑in.</li><li>A member of our team will be available on-site to offer assistance.</li><li>Any equipment or materials agreed as part of your booking will be prepared for you.</li></ul><h3>Before You Arrive</h3>If you need to update or amend your booking, please contact us at info@poplarunion.com or call 0203 039 3333<h3>On the Day</h3><ul><li>Check in with staff upon arrival.</li><li>You are responsible for ensuring your activity runs safely and smoothly.</li><li>Please leave the space in the condition it was provided.</li></ul><h3>Cancellations</h3>If you need to cancel, please notify us as soon as possible. Our cancellation policy applies according to the timeframe given at the time of booking.We look forward to welcoming you to Poplar Union and hope you have a great experience.

Join Lyn Hill in these friendly, fun weekly line-dancing classes and learn the dance craze that swept the nation. Make new friends, keep fit and most of all, have fun!With 60 years dance experience, you’re in excellent hands (or feet!) as Lyn will get you dancing, learning new steps and styles each week as well as plenty of line dancing. The classes are a brilliant space to get fit, make new friends and release your inner dancer! No experience necessary and classes are Covid-secure. Each week there will be time for tea, biscuits and a chat with old and new friends.

Join Lyn Hill in these friendly, fun weekly line-dancing classes and learn the dance craze that swept the nation. Make new friends, keep fit and most of all, have fun! ﻿The classes are a brilliant space to get fit, make new friends and release your inner dancer! No experience necessary and classes are Covid-secure. Each week there will be time for tea, biscuits and a chat with old and new friends.

Thank you for your booking. We’re pleased to confirm your reservation at Poplar Union.What to Expect<ul><li>Please arrive 10 minutes early to allow for setup or check‑in.</li><li>A member of our team will be available on-site to offer assistance.</li><li>Any equipment or materials agreed as part of your booking will be prepared for you.</li></ul>Before You ArriveIf you need to update or amend your booking, please contact us at info@poplarunion.com or call on 0203 039 3333On the Day<ul><li>Check in with staff upon arrival.</li><li>You are responsible for ensuring your activity runs safely and smoothly.</li><li>Please leave the space in the condition it was provided.</li></ul>CancellationsIf you need to cancel, please notify us as soon as possible. Our cancellation policy applies according to the timeframe given at the time of booking.We look forward to welcoming you to Poplar Union and hope you have a great experience.

Strength and Sisterhood invite women to join our Taekwondo and self-defence classes starting in March 2026. These sessions are designed to equip women with practical skills that support personal safety, confidence and overall wellbeing. Each class includes core Taekwondo techniques, effective self-defence strategies and simple strength building exercises. The sessions are suitable for complete beginners as well as those with some experience and are structured so that everyone can progress at a comfortable pace. Our aim is to provide a supportive and positive training environment where women can focus, develop their skills and build confidence through consistent practice. Alongside the physical elements, the classes offer opportunities to improve discipline, concentration and body awareness. By joining these classes, participants not only learn valuable skills but also become part of a growing community focused on empowerment, wellbeing and mutual support. We welcome all women who want to feel more confident, active and develop their skills. Come train with us! Please see our <a href="https://poplarunion.com/terms-conditions/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Terms and Conditions</a> page for booking policy.

In these free creative sessions, we will be exploring the East End history through collage and trips to museums and local spaces. Want to know more about your local area in a warm, friendly environment? All levels welcome, no experience (in art or history) required.&nbsp;In the sessions we will cover themes such as:<ul><li>Family and migration&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Home&nbsp; and architecture&nbsp;</li><li>Shopping and markets</li><li>Work and workers rights&nbsp;</li><li>Women’s lives</li><li>Food, globalisation and Empire</li><li>Canals, rivers and water companies</li><li>Parks and the local environment</li></ul>Come learn, explore, and discover local history through collage!Any questions? Email tasnim at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="mailto:tasnimproduces@gmail.com">tasnimproduces@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;Please note these classes are for adults only. Refreshments provided.<hr><h1>About the Artist</h1><img src="https://poplarunion.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/DSC00719-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="180">Tasnim Siddiqa Amin (she/they) is a working-class Bangladeshi-British artist, theatremaker and activist from Poplar. Her interdisciplinary practice spans theatre, performance art, visual art and community arts facilitation, grounded in anti-racism, postcolonialism and intersectional feminism.Tasnim’s practice is trauma-informed and grounded in care-based methodologies, shaped by lived experience and a commitment to collective wellbeing. She designs and delivers participatory arts programmes that prioritise accessibility, co-creation, and long-term relationship-building using creativity as a means of connection, reflection and resistance.Tasnim is currently Assistant Director/Producer at Daedalus Theatre Company, she has developed creative nature workshops designed to confront environmental justice issues with working-class communities in Havering and facilitated creative collaborations with LGBTQ+, global majority, Bengali and Jewish communities across Tower Hamlets and East London.She is an Associate Artist at Tamasha Theatre where she took part in a Creative Wellbeing Lab, an 18-month training programme for creative facilitators exploring art, mental health and community in practice supported by Creative Health Camden, King’s College London and the Baring Foundation.As a member of the Tower Hamlets Creative Health Forum, led by St Margaret’s House, Tasnim contributes to borough-wide conversations about integrating arts, health and community practice within local systems of care. Tasnim was also part of Active Ingredients in 2023/24, a collaborative project between Poplar Union and Queen Mary University London, developed in collaboration with Dr Maria Turri, focused on care, safety, and sustainability within creative health and social prescribing practice.&nbsp;

<h2>Class description</h2> Discover the calm, feel the energy, and move at your own pace in our beginner Tai Chi class.In this welcoming, no‑pressure session, you’ll learn simple, flowing movements that are gentle on the joints and easy to follow, even if you’ve never tried Tai Chi before. Our instructor guides you step by step, focusing on relaxation, posture, and breathing, so you can build confidence while you move. Each class begins with light warm‑ups, followed by clear instruction in a short Tai Chi sequence designed especially for beginners. You’ll practise slowly, repeat as much as you need, and always have options to adapt movements to your body.Expect a friendly group, a calm atmosphere, and plenty of encouragement. Come as you are, wear something comfortable, and leave feeling more relaxed, more balanced, and a little bit taller in yourself. The class is term only - £50 for 10 sessions (at £5 per session)Please be aware that for this class, we don't offer refunds for cancellations on your side. <h2>Matthew Leavey | Tai Chi and Shiatsu Massage Tutor</h2>Matthew Leavey is an expert Shiatsu massage therapist and Tai Chi instructor with over 26 years of clinical and teaching experience (Fellow of Shiatsu Society and Cert Ed. Tai Chi Instructor, Wu Kung Federation). Matthew practices an advanced form of Shiatsu utilising acupressure points; Zen methodology; and extended qi (energy) meridians. He has worked with a wide range of clients ranging from elite athletes to people living with chronic pain and severe mental illness.Matthew joined Idea Store Learning in 2012 and developed introductory workshops and courses at beginners and improvers level to bring Shiatsu and Tai Chi to the local community. His philosophy is that everyone should be able to benefit from learning about Shiatsu and Tai Chi regardless of their circumstances. Matthew supports learners to develop their own practice of regular exercise to promote a sense of lightness in the body together with an overall improvement in their state of wellbeing. <h2>Q&amp;A</h2><h3>1. Do I need any experience to join?</h3>No experience at all is needed. This class is designed especially for complete beginners, and you’ll be guided step by step through every movement. <h3>2. What should I wear?</h3>Wear loose, comfortable clothing that lets you move easily, and flat shoes or trainers (no bare feet or socks). You don’t need any special uniform or equipment. <h3>3. I’m not very fit / I have stiff joints. Is this suitable for me?</h3>Yes. Tai Chi is low‑impact and gentle on the body, and movements can be made smaller or adapted if you have limited mobility. You’re encouraged to work at your own pace and rest whenever you need. <h3>4. How long is the class?</h3>Classes usually last around 90 minutes. This includes a warm‑up, learning and practising movements, and a short cool‑down at the end. <h3>5. What will we actually do in the class?</h3>We start with simple warm‑ups, then learn a small number of Tai Chi movements, practising them slowly and repeatedly. Over time these movements link together into a short, flowing sequence. <h3>6. Will I be able to remember the moves?</h3>At first it’s normal to forget the sequence. The class is taught slowly, with lots of repetition and clear demonstrations, so over a few weeks your body will start to remember naturally. <h3>7. Do I have to do partner work or be touched?</h3>Not necessarily. Some classes include optional, very gentle partner exercises to explore balance and coordination, but you can always choose to observe or sit those out. <h3>8. Is Tai Chi a martial art or just for relaxation?</h3>Tai Chi comes from a martial arts tradition, but in this beginner class the focus is on relaxation, posture, balance, and wellbeing. You’ll experience the calming side first, without any pressure to learn self‑defence. <h3>9. Can I join if I’m older / recovering from illness?</h3>Many older adults and people in recovery enjoy Tai Chi because of its slow, controlled movements. If you have a health condition, we recommend checking with your doctor first and letting the instructor know before class. <h3>10. Do I need to bring anything?</h3>Just bring yourself, a bottle of water, and perhaps a light layer in case you feel cool during relaxation. Everything else is provided. <h3>11. How often should I attend to feel a benefit?</h3>Most people start to notice improvements in relaxation, balance, or body awareness after a few weeks of regular weekly classes. The more consistently you come, the more you’ll get out of it. <h3>12. I feel self‑conscious in new classes. Will I stand out?</h3>Not at all. Everyone is focused on their own movements, and it’s perfectly normal to wobble, turn the wrong way, or lose your place. The atmosphere is friendly and supportive rather than competitive.

Weekly open studio at Poplar Union exploring photography, collage, embroidery, illustration and oral history. Open to all.Sessions take place every Wednesday from 11am–1pm, at Poplar Union.We’ll work with photography, collage, embroidery, illustration and oral history, responding to everyday stories, food, place and personal experience. Sessions will move between indoor making and gentle explorations of the local area — including the canal, nearby markets, streets and community gardens — using walking, looking and listening as part of the creative process.Sessions are informal and process-led. You can join quietly, experiment with materials, share ideas, or simply spend time making alongside others. No experience is needed. Materials are provided, and you’re welcome to bring your own ideas or work in progress.Important: Please book one session only — the first Wednesday you plan to attend. This helps us manage numbers and registers you for the ongoing sessions, so there’s no need to book multiple dates.

Open Studio: Photography, Making & Stories at Poplar Union

Mike

Thank you for your booking. We’re pleased to confirm your reservation with Poplar Union. What to Expect<ul><li>Please arrive 5-10 minutes early to allow for setup or check‑in.</li><li>A member of our team will be available on-site to offer assistance.</li></ul>Before You ArriveIf you need to update or amend your booking, please contact us at info@poplarunion.com or call 0203 039 3333. On the Day<ul><li>Check in with staff upon arrival.</li><li>You are responsible for ensuring your activity runs safely and smoothly.</li><li>Please leave the space in the condition it was provided.</li></ul>CancellationsIf you need to cancel, please notify us as soon as possible. Our cancellation policy applies according to the timeframe given at the time of booking.We look forward to welcoming you to Poplar Union and hope you have a great experience.

Welcome to "Create, Draw, Meet," a fun and inclusive social meetup for all abilities held every Wednesday. Join us for 2.5 hours of creativity, where everyone can express themselves through different artistic activities.What We Offer:<ul><li>Creative Exploration: Enjoy drawing, painting, collaging, textiles. Whether you’re an experienced artist or a beginner, our meetup is the perfect place to explore and develop your talents.</li><li>Inclusive Environment: Our sessions are open to everyone, creating a welcoming and supportive space for all. Help is on hand if you need creative guidance</li><li>Flexible Donations: Join us with any donation amount that suits you. Your contributions help keep this community-driven initiative alive and thriving.</li></ul> The tickets for the class are pay-what-you-can/donation based. If you would like to make a donation, you can pick one of the payment options on Plinth or pay on in person by cash or card. Please be aware that the class capacity is 20 people.

Free

Pay What You Can - £3

Pay What You Can - £5

Pay What You Can - £7

Poplar Chess Club - Every Wednesday 6pm-8pmAll Abilities Welcome! Whether you're a total beginner or a seasoned player, come along to meet fellow chess enthusiasts, sharpen your skills, share tips, or simply enjoy a friendly game.These sessions offer a quieter space for focused games, learning, and skill-building – perfect for beginners and experienced players alike.No pressure, just great company and the chance to play.Checkmate your afternoon—see you there!Children are welcome, but they must be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times.The club will provide some boards, but BYOB (bring your own board) encouraged.

Join us every Wednesday from 6pm to 8pm for an uplifting evening designed to spark connections, inspire creativity, and fill your week with shared fun.From chess and board games to crochet, quilting, and a cosy reading corner—our spacious studio will be buzzing with friendly faces and positive energy.We’ll start with a handful of activities and plan to keep growing, bringing even more variety as the year unfolds.Every Social Wednesday is a true community-powered experience—no instructors, just passionate people coming together to inspire one another! Dive in, share your talents, swap creative ideas, and discover new inspiration. We’ll supply the essentials like wool, crochet hooks, books, and quilting fabrics, but feel free to bring your favourite tools and add your personal touch to the evening.There will be gentle music in the background, and a tea and coffee area.

Monthly Tea &amp; Dharma Chats An evening to slow down, share a cup of tea, and turn toward the deeper questions of life together. We will draw from the teachings on wisdom and kindness - the Dharma as taught in the Buddhist tradition - and discuss topics that are universal in nature: how to work with difficult emotions? What to pay attention to in the midst of our lives? How can we meet challenges we face on a daily basis? With short readings and contemplations, we wish to offer an open, relaxed space where everyone is encouraged to engage. All are welcome, whatever your background, belief, or tradition. These “chats” are all about finding our way through life, cultivating an open mind and heart, and asking how we might build a wiser and kinder world. What we will do:<ul><li>Short readings</li><li>Contemplation</li><li>Conversations</li></ul> Everyone is welcome to listen at any point and there is a space towards the end for more informal conversations. Structure18:00 Welcome and tea18:15 Reading18:30 Contemplation18:45 Conversation19:30 Closing19:35 Informal space Please note: These sessions are suitable for adults only.

Take part in a 1 hour session of Pilates with Michelle Turner!Pilates is an all over body workout with a specific focus on the core and spinal health. The lesson involves standing sequences for balance and posture, we then move to the mat for a series of sequences targeting the abdominals, spinal stability and gluteal strength. We end the class with a deep relaxing stretch and some breath work.Classes this term are at a discounted rate of £6. For booking policy, please see our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://poplarunion.com/terms-conditions/">Terms &amp; Conditions</a> page.

Discover a new way to create with sound This class offers a relaxed and playful space to explore music, voice, and creativity. No previous experience needed. Whether you’re curious about sound, interested in writing lyrics or poetry, or simply looking for a new creative outlet, this is a welcoming environment where you can experiment freely and build confidence at your own pace. Ivy Dreams&nbsp;will guide you through a journey that begins with open exploration—playing with sound, voice, and ideas—and gradually develops into creating your own original piece of work.Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to explore music-making, spoken word, and creative expression in a supportive group setting. As the course progresses, themes such as&nbsp;Dreams&nbsp;will be introduced to inspire deeper creative work and personal expression. Sound Lab is more than a class—it’s a chance to discover the creative power of sound in a space that is inclusive, exploratory, and genuinely different from anything we’ve offered before. This project aims to demonstrate that creativity does not require expertise or formal training. Instead it is about creating a space&nbsp;where curiosity, experimentation and imagination are valued more than polished outcomes. Come along!

This is an early morning walk for people in the local area. It’s great to start your day well, talk to some positive people and see the sun!

The patio outside E5 Poplar Bakehouse

Patio

Thank you for your booking. We’re pleased to confirm your reservation at Poplar Union. <h3>What to Expect</h3><ul><li>Please arrive 10 minutes early to allow for setup or check‑in.</li><li>A member of our team will be available on-site to offer assistance.</li><li>Any equipment or materials agreed as part of your booking will be prepared for you.</li></ul><h3>Before You Arrive</h3>If you need to update or amend your booking, please contact us at info@poplarunion.com or call on 0203 039 3333 <h3>On the Day</h3><ul><li>Check in with staff upon arrival.</li><li>You are responsible for ensuring your activity runs safely and smoothly.</li><li>Please leave the space in the condition it was provided.</li></ul><h3>Cancellations</h3>If you need to cancel, please notify us as soon as possible. Our cancellation policy applies according to the timeframe given at the time of booking.We look forward to welcoming you to Poplar Union and hope you have a great experience.

FREE yoga sessions every Friday from 11:15AM to 12:15 Noon for:<ul><li>Women from marginalised communities</li><li>Those living with health conditions or referred by a GP/health practitioner</li><li>Women unable to access mainstream yoga classes due to financial barriers</li><li>Women on Universal Credit</li></ul>✅ Inclusive &amp; Supportive Environment✅ Gentle Yoga for All Levels✅ Health-Focused Practice Please come on time. We will close entry 10 minutes after the class begins, as to not disturb the flow of the session.

'Soul' Cinema ScreeningJoin us for a family-friendly film day. We will be screening the Disney Pixar movie 'Soul'. Joe's true passion is jazz. But when he travels to another realm to help someone find their passion, he soon discovers what it means to have soul.Honouring Our Communities is a Black History Month 2026 programme rooted in arts, culture, and heritage, created for and with the residents of Tower Hamlets. Taking place throughout October, the project will feature exhibitions, wellness activities, conversations, and performances designed to celebrate Black creativity and honour Black history, culture, and talent.

'Soul' Cinema Screening - Honouring Our Communities 

Poetry Open NightIt's that time again when good vibes and pure positivity is pending. It has been almost one year since the last Poplar Poetry Evening and something is brewing. Back again on October 23rd 2026 Poplar Poetry Evening presents 'Your Stage...Your Show' Open Mic Celebration. Come experience the niceness of this poetry evening, the coming together of different creative ideas, the food...oh the food, and the unforgettable offerings of creative expressions. All are welcomed and all will be taken very good care of. Entry is free! Come and take 'the stage' and make it your show.Honouring Our Communities is a Black History Month 2026 programme rooted in arts, culture, and heritage, created for and with the residents of Tower Hamlets. Taking place throughout October, the project will feature exhibitions, wellness activities, conversations, and performances designed to celebrate Black creativity and honour Black history, culture, and talent.

Open Poetry Night - Honouring Our Communities

How could this event benefit you and your child(ren)?  

Have you been to a Poplar Union event before? What were the benefits for you and anyone you brought with you? (Eg connecting, welcoming, did you learn anything…)

<h2>Play Labs&nbsp;are creative play sessions (for ages 0-6) led by our Parent Play Champions.</h2> We welcome you to our Play Labs. Time to explore movement, sound, and sensory play!We are training a team of local Play Champions so expect a variety of different activities from our facilitating team over the next few months.These sessions will take place on&nbsp;Saturday mornings at 9.30 am&nbsp;from the&nbsp;13th June(Sat 13th and Sat 27th June will have a music and movement theme). <h2>Schedule:&nbsp;9.30am to 11.30am</h2> 9.30am - 10.45amFirst guided activity (0-6-year-olds)10.15am - 10:45amJuice, snack break and free flow activities10.45am to 11.30amSecond guided activity (0-6-year-olds)11.30amPack up and goodbye Adults must be accompanied by a child. Max 2 children per adult.&nbsp;On the 3rd of October, we will have a short graduation activity to celebrate the completion of the programme. The sessions will continue after and incorporate the Play Champions' ideas. <h2>FAQs</h2> Who is it for?Play labs sessions are designed for children ages 0-6 and are SEND inclusive. Older children are welcome to come along with their younger siblings. Parents or carers must be present during sessions. Can I book a one-off session?We encourage you to book a block of sessions so you can explore play over time with us.Though we do welcome one-off bookings, too. Who are the ‘Parent Play Champions?Parent Play Champions are local parents or carers undergoing a free training programme, ‘Power of Play: Parent Play Champions’, to equip them to facilitate inclusive play sessions for young families. They will help lead the play sessions. What is the ‘Power of Play: Parent Play champions’ Project 2026?Parent Play Champions is a free training programme for parents and carers in Tower Hamlets, funded by Save the Children and delivered by Poplar Union, Mindful Music and Blink Theatre. The programme supports local parents and carers to build confidence, develop creative play and facilitation skills, and gain hands-on experience leading activities with children. Please see our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://poplarunion.com/terms-conditions/">Terms and Conditions</a> for booking policy.&nbsp;

Pay What You Can - £6

Pay What You Can - £10

Unwaged/Low Income - Free

The Afro-Hair Fair offers a culturally safe space to explore identity and self-expression, build confidence and self esteem, learn practical hair care skills for Afro and textured hair, and receive gentle styling or haircuts. 12-2pm – Learn to Braid Workshop 2pm-5pm – Haircuts &amp; Hairstyling HubHonouring Our Communities is a Black History Month 2026 programme rooted in arts, culture, and heritage, created for and with the residents of Tower Hamlets. Taking place throughout October, the project will feature exhibitions, wellness activities, conversations, and performances designed to celebrate Black creativity and honour Black history, culture, and talent.Booking: These sessions can be reserved with a £5 fee. Once you attend the sessions, the fee is refunded.Accessibility: Please note that this event is held on Jena the Narrow Boat, not our usual venue. There is no wheelchair or step-free access. Toilets on the boat are out of order, but you can use the toilets in the Poplar Union building (which have baby-changing facilities).

Afro Hair Fayre - Honouring Our Communities

Jena the Narrow Boat

'Soul' Cinema ScreeningJoin us for a family-friendly film day. We will be screening the Disney Pixar movie 'Soul'.Joe's true passion is jazz. But when he travels to another realm to help someone find their passion, he soon discovers what it means to have soul.Honouring Our Communities is a Black History Month 2026 programme rooted in arts, culture, and heritage, created for and with the residents of Tower Hamlets. Taking place throughout October, the project will feature exhibitions, wellness activities, conversations, and performances designed to celebrate Black creativity and honour Black history, culture, and talent.Please see our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://poplarunion.com/terms-conditions/">Terms and Conditions</a> page for our booking policy.

'Soul' Cinema Screening - Honouring Our Communities

Paolo and Paul are creating a welcoming space for men to connect, build trust, and talk openly about relationships, life and shared experiences. Join a supportive group where honest conversation, mutual respect and a sense of community come together.The group is free, will start in the Autumn and will be ongoing. We will meet fortnightly on Wednesday evenings, with a maximum of 8-10 members. Everything shared in the group will be confidential.About Paul Atkinson:Paul has been working in East London as a qualified psychotherapist and a men’s group facilitator for over three decades. He is a member of the Free Psychotherapy Network (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://freepsychotherapynetwork.com">freepsychotherapynetwork.com</a>).About Paolo Fiorentini:Paolo has spent over ten years in the volunteer sector as an artistic director, collaborating with different community groups and leading a wide range of creative activities. He has developed projects that support mental wellbeing, especially by encouraging conversation and creativity in local communities. He is currently training in Counselling.

Welcome to Poplar Picks! Join us at Poplar Union for a community morning once a month. Together we will clean our streets and park to help reduce waste. You can take part on your own or as part of a group, litter-picking is an easy and fun way to get active, improve your wellbeing, and take care of the environment on your doorstep.We start at 11 am, meeting outside the E5 cafe. You will receive all equipment and some guidance on the areas for litter picking. We want to keep this flexible and want to keep to the Bartlett Park and surround area.

"Tower Hamlets Family Meet-up for bumps, babies and toddlers:&nbsp;Your village in the city!Join us with your bumps, babies, toddlers and partners at&nbsp;<a href="https://system.spektrix.com/demo1/website/CookieBounce.aspx?redirect_url=https%3A%2F%2Fpoplarunion.com%2F" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(218, 0, 111);">Poplar Union</a>&nbsp;and enjoy a friendly boost of positivity to help you along your journey through pregnancy into parenthood with support and friendships.The Tower Hamlets Family meet-up was born out of passion for supporting the local new and expectant parents community and offer them professional support and friendship. We have been going strong for over 8 years now!We’ll talk all things bump, birth and beyond! It’s a chilled and lovely atmosphere to take a breather, get peer support, meet other lovely parents and chat over a nice cuppa.It takes a village to raise a child, welcome to yours!This meet-up is for new and expectant parents, those with babies and toddlers. Please kindly note that we’re not a playgroup or a baby class, but we do have a little play corner with toys for your little ones.We’re a team of parents and perinatal professionals with a wide range of pregnancy, birth and early parenthood knowledge, skills and expertise. We can support you antenatally and postnatally and we have a wonderful network of perinatal and early years experts on hand.Each month we have other perinatal/early years professionals who join us! Who comes vary from meet to meet and this will be advertised on our&nbsp;<a href="https://wrapahug.com/contact/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(218, 0, 111);">social media&nbsp;</a><a href="https://fb.me/e/2EOhmYpAe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(218, 0, 111);">posts</a>&nbsp;@wrapahug_sling_library(If you are a perinatal/early years professional, you are welcome to attend to provide free support to parents. This must be agreed prior to attending the meet-up by emailing Mel at <a href="mailto:mel.wrapahug@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(44, 181, 118);">mel.wrapahug@gmail.com</a>).&nbsp;Mel and her sling volunteers are here to tell you all about babywearing, fit check your slings, show you how to feed in slings and help you try some slings on. We have a wide range of slings and carriers available at the meet-up you can try on and hire if you wish to do so. Please note that the meet is usually very busy so there is only so much time we can offer per parent so we can help everybody safely.The meet runs from 10.30am to 1pm every first Thursday of the month expect August when we take a break.There is plenty of space to accommodate buggies and people! Entrance is via reception or the cafe.Partners and grandparents are very welcome!You don’t need to live in Tower Hamlets to attend, all welcome.You can get drinks and food from the awesome E5 Poplar Bakehouse cafe in Poplar Union but we also provide refreshments and homemade cakes as the cafe is very busy (please bring a reusable cup).There are toilets and baby changing facilities in the building. Ticket booking is required.&nbsp;When booking, only book tickets for the adults attending, not the babies. Ticket booking&nbsp;does not&nbsp;book you in for a sling appointment; we don’t book 1-0-1s at the meet-up, just come at the start of the meet and come talk to us about your babywearing needs. It’s helpful to&nbsp;<a href="https://wrapahug.com/contact/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(218, 0, 111);">contact us</a>&nbsp;beforehand to let us know what you need help with (please email&nbsp;Mel at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Mel.wrapahug@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(44, 181, 118);">Mel.wrapahug@gmail.com</a>) This support group is ran entirely by volunteer perinatal professionals who are here to support new and expectant parents. The meet is by donation, please make your donation when <a href="https://poplarunion.com/event/tower-hamlets-family-meet-up-bumps-babies-and-toddler-group/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: inherit;">booking your ticket </a>to help us cover the costs of the room hire. We will also take donations on the day by card if you haven’t donated when booking but please donate online as this saves us precious time on the day, thank you.

Pay What You Can - £8

Tower Hamlets Family Meet-Up - Bumps, Babies and Toddler group

Along with putting on in-house events, we have two great multi-functional, high-spec spaces available to hire.Betty, our large studio space, and Mike, our meeting room, can be used for performances, live music, meetings, launches, creative workshops, film and photography shoots and much more.Hire a space at Poplar Union, and you’ll also have the option to make use of our excellent general facilities: our in-house café, Poplar Bakehouse; catering*; baby change facilities; and full disabled access.Our office opening times are 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday, but we will occasionally be open for shows and bookings outside of these hours. If you require access to the venue outside of regular opening hours, please let us know by calling 020 3039 3333 or email hire@poplarunion.com

Whether you’re entirely new to crocheting or looking to refresh your skills, this class is the perfect place to start. You’ll learn the basics, including foundational stitches, how to read patterns and tips for selecting the right materials. No prior experience is needed—just bring your enthusiasm and creativity.

Take part in a 1 hour session of Pilates with Michelle Turner!Pilates is an all over body workout with a specific focus on the core and spinal health. The lesson involves standing sequences for balance and posture, we then move to the mat for a series of sequences targeting the abdominals, spinal stability and gluteal strength. We end the class with a deep relaxing stretch and some breath work.Classes this term are at a discounted rate of £6.For booking policy, please see our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://poplarunion.com/terms-conditions/">Terms &amp; Conditions</a> page.

Thank you for booking the meditation session. Your booking fee will be refunded once you attend the class.

Monthly Meditation Practice A space to pause, settle, and become more familiar and at ease with your own mind and body. Through sitting and walking meditation and brief contemplations, we explore how to cultivate kindness towards ourselves and act gently and skilfully in connection with others in our communities. No experience or particular background is needed. Simply being genuinely curious about life, seeking clarity and a way through the difficulties we face is enough. Meditation practice is open to everyone and a great method to support us on our own path in life and building a kind community with those around us. What we will do:<ul><li>Simply Sitting Meditation</li><li>Walking Meditation</li><li>Contemplation</li><li>Towards the end there is a space to relax and have informal conversations.</li></ul> Structure10:00 Welcome10:15 Sitting meditation10:30 Walking meditation10:45 Sitting and contemplation11:00 Closing11:05 Informal space Booking: These sessions can be reserved with a £5 fee. Once you attend the sessions, the fee is refunded. Please note: These sessions are suitable for adults only.

Bring your beloved items in need of a little TLC to our Repair Café! Whether it’s something you love or just need to revitalise, we’re here to help you breathe new life into it. Let’s get started on those repairs together!Skilled volunteers will help you repair a range of items including:– Clothes mending and alterations – volunteers will guide you through mending skills such as how to sew on a missing or loose button, hemming tricks and tips for alterations, and how to repair small holes.– Small electrical appliances – volunteers will look at small household electrical appliances and either help you mend it, or recommend what can be done with it.– IT equipment – bring in any items that don’t work as well as they used to, or any IT issues you’re facing, and volunteers will do their best to help resolve the issue or recommend solutions.If you would like to volunteer with us we would love your help. Please fill out this <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer ugc" href="https://mirror-crabapple-e9d.notion.site/27927e53be138062bf86c82551e36f0d?pvs=105" title="https://mirror-crabapple-e9d.notion.site/27927e53be138062bf86c82551e36f0d?pvs=105">form</a> and we will get in touch with you shortly.

<h1>You're booked for a Soundbath Session at&nbsp;Poplar Union&nbsp;- 2 Cotall Street, London, E14 6TL</h1>⚪If you haven't done so already, please fill out the<a href="https://link.eu.inky.net/link?domain=ggahibd.r.bh.d.sendibt3.com&amp;t=h.eJxVksmymkAARX8l5ToqgzK81QPbqDigoDSwobppRhnaBgRM5d9TvmSRLO-9p-7q_Jx0rJh8fJukbUubj_k8SVCaYTJjM5zOyKyJKpLhVpyFdTlv2Tws5heVDNvzmWZROD6ptJ6eVP2ZFXXGwGoV7gvf33HHhfjooBfsYQpSbdA17uEIQH09Fk4P7ES5bwXolSy5SLwHDdDLsRXAxU55XrBPt81tnK7EAdhOuNVqqWFNj3OnAfAog-e6S6CA_KvVK7XQ75ku6Ss7MYqdNGTUfWwksl5iFrG9Ka6lgEZsoYWJIbf4Km0SlpRwZTPRAld8ScOxGdtx7A5-r6dl4IG-rGiIvXERJXJJXmcD9poRnHjVjx3cOqYHAoNHe3nZGa7stzjPUeYN_tMU8q3nVid4tHUnbVnmYTW8GyXCgRMfmJxeBnrjbgcCXb5JCHiV9k2FVq4KuX6U1frUmEW67gefXl9Xw4WjovXARJDbkqXV2_G08IJwv8tMl4FiKhMDmMVLds_-KkZeriFJfOq2WZSWEtLmMJVFAJ9ncrLU3a1q4Hl44AjfXyMN2-MCNfm6cgM_v5jthmxW6KHIKqCS-0PSrDV7EL-ffP82ub-loDUtEJt2VVZXc4rqov78U301X06EsShgIsQxjxeRgAQOxwpHQm4phlgVRG7OywrHLRVZUGeiIihLnn_fR1_ORahNI9bUXUWaz7-Jjago3tdvjPyD_Te0b2n5X78B7_brhQ.MEYCIQCTuqfQyIXko8Cel1ltVYQq7dH73P_zQaDtUXrHix_IDQIhAMSx96TOTXEUuKbpv3ToX_t1V7EwylIM68caKJ0whHY-" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(74, 110, 224);">Pre-Session Form</a>The session cannot go ahead without doing so.⚪Event&nbsp;Timings&nbsp;are as follows:18.00-18.15Arrival and getting comfortable on mats18.15-19.00Relaxation Soundbath19.00-19.15Time to gently come back into the space&nbsp;&nbsp;Below you will find&nbsp;some&nbsp;more information about what to expect and&nbsp;some things&nbsp;to think about before the soundbath: <ul><li>You don't need to do anything to prepare - arrive just as you are</li><li>Cushions, blankets, and mats are provided, but feel free to bring your own for additional comfort.</li><li>People sometimes like to use an eye mask - heated or&nbsp;not,&nbsp;this can add to the experience.</li><li>It's best to wear loose, comfortable clothing so you feel as relaxed as possible.</li><li>Try not to eat a large meal directly beforehand, again, so you feel comfortable and relaxed.</li><li>Drink some water beforehand, and bring a bottle with you to the session.</li><li>Avoid alcohol / recreational drugs beforehand.</li></ul>﻿Please arrive in good time to get comfortable in the 15min arrival window at the start.If you have answered yes to any of the contraindications and awareness questions on the pre-session form, I will be in touch, but please feel free to contact me on 07845805074 or heather.ryall.sounds@gmail.com so we can discuss anything in advance of the session to make sure you feel comfortable and safe during the soundbath.

A soundbath is an instrumental sequence which takes participants into a deep state of relaxation. The frequencies of the different instruments and the way they are played are designed to guide participants into an Altered State of Consciousness. The session lasts around 45 mins; after everyone has found a comfortable position on their mats, the session begins with Himalayan Bowls, leading to Gong, and finishing with Crystal Bowls before a short sequence of therapeutic percussion which helps to lift participants out of the Altered State. In this state numerous positive health benefits can be achieved, including lower blood pressure, reduced anxiety, and less mental and physical tension. It can improve mental, emotional and physical wellbeing and create more emotional and mental flexibility. You don’t need to do anything to prepare – come as you are. A handout will be sent to you beforehand so you know what to expect, but the great thing about a soundbath session is that it can be experienced on multiple levels; from relaxation to meeting aspects of ourselves that we struggle with, to setting personal intentions. About HeatherHeather trained with the British Academy of Sound Therapy, known as BAST and qualified as a sound therapist in 2022. She runs regular group soundbath sessions in London and follows the BAST method which is designed to take clients into a deeply relaxed, altered state of consciousness. Heather is a huge believer in the body as a vessel for healing and has a somatic approach to therapy and sound healing. As a musician, she has always found the vibrations of the instruments she plays to have a therapeutic effect and as a sound therapist loves to facilitate a space where people can relax into their bodies in a safe environment and meet themselves at a level beyond words. As well as being a freelance clarinettist, she enjoys making her own sound pieces, incorporating sound therapy instruments and field recordings, primarily of birds and water. She also facilitates guided self-reflection in some soundbath sessions; providing clients with the opportunity to go deeper and gain more insight into their health and wellbeing on the different levels of their being.<a href="https://www.heatherryall.com/soundbaths" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(193, 86, 42);">Website</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/heather_sounds/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(193, 86, 42);">Instagram</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/people/Heather-%20Sounds/100088360362679/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(193, 86, 42);">FaceBook</a>

Ready to create your own game?Join us for an exciting Games Design Workshop&nbsp;where young creatives will explore the world of game development, learn key design principles, and bring their ideas to life. Whether you're passionate about gaming, storytelling, art, or technology, this hands-on session is the perfect opportunity to develop new skills, unleash your creativity, and meet like-minded young people.This class is for attendees aged 12-16.Booking: These sessions can be reserved with a £8 fee. Once you attend the sessions, the fee is refunded.

Poplar Union

Women's-Only Health & Fitness Class

Get Together to Line Dance

Self Defence Class for Women

Exploring History through Creativity

Tai Chi for Wellness

Open Studio: Photography, Making & Stories at Poplar Union

Create, Draw, Meet

Poplar Chess Club

Social Wednesday

Tea & Dharma Chats

Pilates with Michelle - discounted!

The Sound Labs: Music beyond limitations

Morning Walking Group

Yoga with Ana

'Soul' Cinema Screening - Honouring Our Communities

Open Poetry Night - Honouring Our Communities