Discover cycling with the Royal British Legion. Join us on our ultimate UK sportive in the Shropshire Hills.
Put your cycling to the test on routes designed by our experienced team. Whether you’re new to cycling or an experienced rider, gear up for a day of excellence at the Royal British Legion’s Battle Back Centre – the specialist recovery centre for veterans.
When you join the Poppy Ride, you're not just cycling; you're making a meaningful impact. Your participation directly supports serving and ex-serving personnel and their families, making each pedal stroke count.
Routes tailored for you
Whether you're taking your first spin in the cycling world or you're a seasoned pro, Poppy Ride offers three professionally designed routes - each catering to different skill levels*:
Short Route
Medium Route: Scenic Adventure
Long Route: Legion Legend
What’s included
Timed results to view online
Unique finisher’s medal
Free on-site parking
Fully stocked feed stations
Expert medical and mechanical support
Dedicated team of ride captains to support you on the road
Event Village with onsite catering
Dedicated team for fundraising support
Secure your spot on Poppy Ride Shropshire now.
Entry Fees
Fundraise – £30 Reduced Entry
Pay less, raise more. Choose this option to pay a reduced entry fee and set up a fundraising page.
Your fundraising will support the vital work of the RBL, making every mile count.
Fully Fund Your Place – £97 Entry
Cover the full cost of your place. Every pound you raise goes directly to supporting our Armed Forces community.
Timings
- 07:00 – Event Village opens
- 08:00 – First riders set off
- 17:00 – Event Village closes
Location
The Battle Back Centre, Lilleshall National Sports Centre, Newport, TF10 9AT
Transport
Rail
Here are the two nearest train stations. Please note these are not walking distance from the Battle Back Centre:
• Shifnal Station – 5.3 miles away – 14-minute car/taxi journey
• Telford Central – 7.2 miles away – 18-minute car/taxi journey 2
Bus
The bus network doesn’t service the Battle Back Centre. The nearest bus stops are in Lilleshall, these stops are:
• Church Road
• St Michaels Church
• Willmoor Lane
All these bus stops are on bus numbers 5A, 5E & 102. Please note that these bus stops are 3.5 miles away from the Battle Back Centre.
Car Park
There is free parking available onsite with signs posted throughout The Battle Back Centre to guide you to the designated car park. Additionally, you can use this What3Words link to navigate directly to the parking area.
Accessibility
What to bring
Ensure you are self-sufficient on the road by carrying spare inner tubes and all the essential tools you’ll need to keep rolling.
While our Ride Captains, medics and mechanics will be on hand to assist, please be aware that it may take some time for them to reach you if you need help. Make sure to service your bike at least a week beforehand to guarantee everything is in top condition and to avoid any issues on the day.
If this is your first Sportive or it's been a while since your last one, British Cycling has some useful tips on their website to help you get ready and make the most of the event.
Boost your riding skills
Hone your cycling expertise with our experienced ride captains who will be there to support you. Gain valuable insights into peloton riding, road safety, and the camaraderie that cycling brings.
Whether you come on your own or join as a group we offer you the best support before and during the event with training tips and advice.
Get to you know your fellow Poppy Riders
We have an online community of over 30 years of riders so head on over and say hello!
Poppy Ride Facebook Group
Fancy more of a challenge?
Volunteer with us!
Not cycling with us this year? Why not volunteer for the day at Poppy Ride Shropshire and be part of something meaningful.
Your time helps create an amazing experience for participants, lets you meet new people, and build new skills. We have a range of roles in our event village and at cheer points along the route - come and be part of the RBL team.
