If your relationship with sport has mostly involved watching other people do it while you hold a pint, WLQP Autumn of Tasters offers a rather lovely way back in. The West London Queer Project has launched a programme of friendly, beginner-focused sessions for anyone who wants to try something new without the pressure of already knowing what they’re doing.
Sport without the awkward bit
Running across West London throughout autumn 2026, the programme includes tennis, hockey, rock climbing, cricket, touch rugby, football, spinning and yoga, with more sessions being added.
The idea is simple: turn up, have a go and see if something clicks. There’s no previous experience required, and you don’t need to arrive looking like you’ve been training since birth. WLQP’s sessions are designed to make that first step feel less intimidating, particularly for LGBTQ+ people who might not have always felt at home in sporting spaces.
Some of the tasters, including tennis, hockey, climbing and cricket, are intended as a gateway into existing clubs and activities. After trying them in a welcoming LGBTQ+ environment, participants can find out where to continue if they discover they rather enjoy themselves.
There are also introductory sessions for WLQP’s established football and touch rugby activities. That gives newcomers the chance to dip a toe in before committing to regular sessions, joining a team or learning precisely what the offside rule is supposed to mean.
For founder Aubrey Crawley, the value goes well beyond exercise. He has seen how much confidence, friendship and joy people can gain from sport when they’re given permission to be beginners. Many people now involved in WLQP’s regular activities had never imagined themselves playing before they first gave it a go.
That’s the spirit of the Autumn of Tasters: no need to be especially fit, competitive or confident. Just bring yourself, try something different and meet some new people along the way.
WLQP’s Autumn of Tasters runs throughout autumn 2026 across West London. Sessions are free, with tennis, hockey, rock climbing, cricket, touch rugby, football, spinning and yoga among the activities available. Find dates and book your place at wlqp.org.
Looking for your next queer night out? Check the GLL Events Diary for the latest LGBTQ+ events across London.
