The Shropshire Hidden Hills Sportive for the Severn Hospice

Following on from last year's successful event with all proceeds donated to the Midlands Air Ambulance we have two significantly revised routes to both challenge and immerse you into the fantastic landscape of the Shropshire Hills. Both our long and short route traverse the flanks of the counties tallest peak on quiet roads before a lunch stop at the halfway point of each ride. More favourite climbs selected from our own regular club runs finish off the rides before returning to Shrewsbury. We hope you will have as much pleasure taking part in this event as we had in creating these routes. All proceeds will be donated to the Severn Hospice. We look forward to seeing you on May 4th.

We’re proud to support Severn Hospice at Bicton, with proceeds from our sportive going directly to this incredible charity. Our connection with the hospice runs deep, including our annual Reliability Ride in February, which starts from the Refresh Café on-site.

The café is open throughout the day, providing a perfect stop for cyclists exploring the beautiful roads west of Shrewsbury. By taking part in this event, you're not just enjoying a great ride—you’re also making a real difference.

HQ & Parking

Our HQ for the Hidden Hill's Sportive is located in the heart of Shrewsbury. The Old Shrewsbury Bowling Club is located alongside an ample car parking area and easy to find from outside of town. Signing on opens at 7.30am and riders can leave from 8am onwards. The feed station is at Diddlebury Village Hall halfway around each of the routes. Upon your return to Shrewsbury we have a marshal to direct you over the footbridge and back to the HQ. We do advise taking this route as it is both shorter and will avoid you having to ride around the busy one way system. Look out for the marshal and please dismount to cross the footbridge. Upon your return to the HQ please sign on.

Headquarters and Sign On-Shrewsbury Old Bowling Club, Victoria Avenue, Shrewsbury, SY1 1XR.

Parking: St Julian's Friars SY1 1XL. There is ample parking which is charged at 60p per hour pay and display on a Sunday.

Info for Riders

Discover the Best of Shropshire by Bike

Explore Shropshire’s rolling countryside with our 80-mile challenge or scenic 51-mile ride, both featuring rewarding climbs, sweeping descents, and quiet rural lanes. Refuel at our Diddlebury feed stop, perfectly placed halfway through your ride.

Routes are signposted, but we recommend downloading the GPX files for ease. Rural roads add to the adventure, so stay mindful of surfaces for a smooth ride. Looking for flexibility? Mix sections of both routes to create a 65-mile option.

Long Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/49532768
Short Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/49613582

Shropshire’s climbs may be short but steep—a good range of gears will help as the day goes on. For descents, reliable brakes are key. Road surfaces vary, so 28mm+ tyres are recommended for road bikes. Gravel bikes are ideal, but whatever you ride, ensure it's in top condition.

Bring spare inner tubes and a multi-tool for a hassle-free ride.

Both routes feature rolling climbs, scenic descents, and quiet lanes. Be mindful of changing road surfaces and occasional right turns onto busier roads.

Descents can be technical, with twists and limited visibility—ride within your limits for a safe and enjoyable day. This is a non-timed sportive, so there’s no rush—take in the views and ride at your own pace.

A first aid team will be at HQ, with an additional kit at the feed stop. Support riders will set off later and may assist if needed. If you run into an issue, call the organiser—we’ll get you back safely.