“On Thin Ice: Misadventures in Arctic Siberia"

"On Thin Ice: Misadventures in Arctic Siberia."
With Charlie Walker

Summary
In early 2022, Charlie Walker set out to hike 600 miles along the frozen rivers of Siberia. The goal was to visit and learn about the indigenous Siberian peoples living along the route: horse breeders, fur trappers and reindeer herders. He hoped to cut through the myth of the gulag and the permafrost to understand who Siberia’s people are and how they reckon with their haunted past, as well as what the future might hold for their remote corner of our world. But on 24 February Russia invaded Ukraine, with devastating consequences. What had begun as an adventure swiftly descended into a paranoid nightmare, as Walker began to suspect he was being monitored by the Russian authorities. Upon completing his journey, he was arrested and imprisoned.

On Thin Ice charts a thriller-like series of events that exposes the dark heart of Putin’s propaganda machine. It is both the record of one man’s walk through the most inhospitable place on earth and a powerful insight into a deeply troubled – and troubling – nation.

Bio
Charlie Walker is an award-winning explorer author and public speaker. He has travelled over 60,000 miles by foot, horse, raft, bicycle, ski and dug out canoe, in places as varied as the Tibetan Plateau, the Mongolian steppe, the Congolese jungle, the Arctic tundra, the Highlands of New Guinea and the Sahara Desert. He is an elected fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, a four-time winner of the 'Mad but Marvellous' award, and the author of three books.

Venue:
Pizza East, Shoreditch
56 Shoreditch High Street
E1 6JJ


Event Running Time:
(we recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only)
Doors from 6pm
Introduction: 7:25pm
Lecture: 7:30pm
Q&A: 8:10pm

Food:
If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts.

FAQs:

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.

Can I attend without a ticket?

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket.

Is there food available?

Yes, there is always the option to purchase food at our events.

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Can I get my ticket exchanged?

We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Is the event pet friendly?

Yes, we allow pets to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive.