What happens when you mix Arsenal, a badass queer hiking squad, and a deep dive into football history? You get a Saturday that’s nothing short of legendary. Over the weekend, Nonchalant was invited to a special activation walk with Arsenal and Dykes Who Hike – an event packed with history, inclusivity, and a serious love for the game.
Who are Dykes who Hyke?
First, let’s talk about Dykes Who Hike. If you don’t know, get to know. This London-based queer hiking crew is where WLW, bi, trans, and non-binary folk link up for scenic walks, solid vibes, and the occasional pint at the end (because balance right?). Founded by Lucy and Yas, the group is all about community, adventure, and making queer friends. With 200+ strong on their regular hikes, taking over London’s best spots, this is a community group you should check out if you want to meet like-minded people.
The Walk
Our journey kicked off at The Boulder in Shoreditch Park, where a buzzing crowd of queer football (Arsenal, obviously) and hiking fanatics gathered. Lucy and Yas set the tone with their iconic megaphone moment (if you know, you know) before passing the mic to Arsenal legend Anita Asante. The former pro and all-round icon took us through Arsenal’s history, starting with the Britannia Centre where the women trained in 1987.
From there, we hit the trail, stopping at key historic spots to hear about the club’s incredible story. One standout moment? The Bowlby Centre – where the UK’s first-ever gay rights demonstration took place. Here, a member of the Gay Gooners, Arsenal’s official LGBT+ supporters’ group, shared what it means to be part of a club that does so much to support queer players and fans.
Next, we headed to Highbury Square, formerly Arsenal Stadium, where we were told stories of football nostalgia from the stadium. Here, Asante reminisced about training there and being made to run up and down the many stairs.
Then came the grand finale: the Emirates Stadium. Before stepping inside, we checked out the incredible murals now wrapped around the stadium – celebrating Arsenal’s rich history, culture, and legendary players, including the iconic women who shaped the club.
Then came the real treat: an exclusive tour through the changing rooms, the players’ tunnel, and finally, a moment to take it all in from the home dugout. Did we behave like teenage girls when we got to see the players’ shirts in the changing rooms? Yes, yes we did.
Final Thoughts
As we wrapped up, one thing was clear – Arsenal isn’t just talking about inclusion; they’re leading the way in supporting women and minority groups in football. And the momentum isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
Don’t forget this Saturday Arsenal women take on Liverpool at the Emirates, you don’t want to miss it. Grab your tickets.
See you there.
Nonchalant x
This article was written by one of our creative team writers here at Nonchalant Magazine.
