Our Objective
Learn, Laugh, Live is the motto of the u3a, a national network that started in the UK in 1982. There are over 430,000 members in over a thousand u3as throughout the UK.
We have a short YouTube video that explains our goals and how we achieve them.
Members should be aware of the movement's guiding principles.
Who may join?
No qualifications are required for membership, except an enthusiasm to learn and participate in our activities. Everyone who is retired or semi-retired, i.e. in their third age, is most welcome.
Cost of membership
Our membership year runs from 1st April to 31st March. The annual membership cost from 1st April 2026 is £9.00. A reduced fee of £5.00 will apply after 1st December 2026. Associate membership is available at a reduced rate of £5.00 or £1.00 after 1st December if you are a full member of another u3a.
Romsey Archway Offers
- Monthly speaker meetings cover a wide range of subjects.
- A chance to join over 40 interest groups†, spanning sports, discussions, musical activities and more.
- Opportunity to attend numerous social events and visits‡.
- The option to receive five issues of the national magazine, u3a matters.
- Entitlement to join regional and national u3a events.
- A chance to meet like-minded people with similar interests and make good friends.
- Associate membership is available at a reduced rate for full members of nearby u3a's, including Romsey & District.
- The fee includes our capitation fee to the Third Age Trust, our National Organisation, for insurance and membership services.
† Groups are all self-funded, so there may be a small charge for refreshments, materials or venue hire.
‡ A charge may be made for events to cover room hire and refreshments, or in the case of visits, transport and admission.
How to join
To start your application, download and complete our Membership Form, a PDF document that can be filled out using a PDF reader on any computer. For the best experience, use the free version of Adobe Acrobat, where the fields to be completed are highlighted in light blue. Once completed, save your form using the PDF option and forward it to the Treasurer, as detailed on the form. Once we have received your membership fee, we will process your application and then send you a welcome pack. If you don't hear from the membership secretary within a couple of weeks, please let us know.
Membership Renewal or Change of Details
Full renewal details are provided in the email to all members sent in March of each year. If, however, you have any changes to your contact details, your membership of another u3a, or gift aid details, either on renewal or during the year, these should be emailed directly to the Membership Secretary.