Networking in AM/HF once you break in

My question is particularly aimed at London/UK as culture here might differ from the US. I would like to discuss potential investments with PMs/analysts working at other funds in addition to observations in regards to what is playing out across the market, especially in biotech/pharma. I have a fairly comprehensive understanding of certain spaces/companies, so I think that I could make the conversation interesting for both parties. How would I go about striking up these relationships? I see my colleague attending events for example and that's how he's been expanding his network. Is this the only approach or perhaps the most feasible/efficient? Any other alternatives that are more direct and less reliant on my surroundings e.g. having to actually be at an event? Thanks!