Gumtree and community and miscellaneous sections which sometimes have local groups on there. There is one in my area who meet monthly and go to a local pub. I've not been so can't say anything about the sort of people who you'd meet.

Hi I also agree with using special interest groups as oppose to trying sites specifically for developing one to one friendships. There is a great site called meetup.com where people host informal events, which I highly recommend. In my experience, there are normally a few first timers or people going on their own, so I've never felt uncomfortable. Good luck

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Thanks all. I've arranged to meet a couple people I know slightly over the next week but I will be following up on most or all of your suggestions. This is partly why I wouldn't want an academic career because it's difficult trying to form friendships and create a life when moving around for jobs and it gets harder as you get older. It's just not worth it for me.