Event Information
What are the route options?
Please note, all routes are subject to change at any time, right up until the event.
75km - Our original 75km route is perfect for keen cyclists. Starting from Newman University, cyclists will venture into the Worcestershire countryside, passing through scenic villages such as Romsley, Belbroughton, Chaddesley Corbett, Dodford and Barnt Green. Featuring challenging climbs throughout, including the well-known Romsley Hill, this popular route grows in popularity year on year.
100km - This route is an extended version of our ever popular 75km route. At Barnt Green, cyclists will leave the 75km route, travelling through Tutnall, Beoley and Alvechurch before rejoining the intermediate route towards the Lickey Hills and onwards to the finish line at Newman University.
100 miles - We are excited to bring back our 100-mile route which will be incorporated into our 100km route, taking you off on another loop to get in an additional 38 miles! Can you take on the challenge?
70km off-road route - New for 2027! Explore the West Midlands like never before with our exciting new 70km cycle challenge. This unique route takes riders through a mix of scenic parkland, historic canal towpaths and quiet road sections. Designed for cyclists looking for a rewarding challenge, the route combines off-road adventure with accessible road cycling, creating a varied and enjoyable experience for riders of all abilities.
Who can take part?
All of the routes are open to everyone. However, we would recommend all cyclists are over the age of 12. When registering under 18s, you are asked to name a responsible adult aged 18 or over who is riding with them for the duration of the event.
Free parking is available at Newman University. We recommend all cyclists car share where possible.
How can I get a branded cycle jersey?
Take a trip down our jersey memory lane! We have a number of designs from previous years for sale. Get your hands on one of our previous designs for just £20 and support your local hospice.
If you raise £100 before 1st April - you’ll also get a FREE cycling jersey (subject to availability).
Is there bike support/refreshment along the route?
As you get ready for your photo finish you’ll be welcomed with the biggest cheers, as you collect your medal and celebrate at the finish line whilst tucking into yourcomplimentary jacket potato.
Do you need volunteers?
Last year over 40 incredible volunteers helped run this event – without them, Ride the Reservoir wouldn’t happen. Could you join them and be part of something special supporting Birmingham Hospice?
We’re looking for people like you to help with marshalling, running refreshment stops, cheering on cyclists and registering participants. You don’t need any prior experience and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
To find out more or to sign up please call 0121 752 6150 or email events@birminghamhospice.org.uk. Thank you for helping make every moment matter!
What do we need to know about health and safety?
Birmingham Hospice will take all reasonable steps to minimise the risk of accident or injury to participants during this event, however you accept full responsibility for yourself whilst participating in this event and understand that Birmingham Hospice cannot accept liability for any loss or damage to personal property or injury. We recommend that all riders have both bike and personal liability insurances as we cannot be held responsible for damage, loss or theft of your bike or personal items. When registering under 18s, you are asked to name a responsible adult aged 18 or over who is riding with them for the duration of the event.
Our Events Team will be monitoring the weather forecast in the run up to the event, but please also make yourself aware of weather conditions on the day and prepare accordingly. Unless the safety of our participants and volunteers is at risk, we will not cancel the event due to rain. In the unlikely event the event is cancelled, you will be notified as soon as possible, and the event will be rearranged.
All routes use public roads and are not closed off to other vehicles for the event. Please be considerate to other road users, signal clearly, use cycle lanes where necessary, and abide by the Highway Code. Marshals are for visible presence and route guidance only – they cannot stop traffic for you.
Technical support will be available throughout the event, but please make sure you have cash on you or can do a bank transfer should you need to purchase parts from the support team. We recommend you having a bike service prior to taking on the event to ensure your bike is in full working condition.
You must wear a helmet to protect yourself against injuries in the event of an accident. Cyclists not wearing a helmet will be unable to take part unless you are exempt from wearing one. You will be asked to show exemption. Wearing bright, reflective clothing will make you more visible to other road users. April weather is unpredictable, so please dress appropriately. We can’t wait to see everyone wearing their Birmingham Hospice Cycle Jerseys!
Prior to the event please ensure you save the Events Team mobile number provided in your phone. This way you will be able to contact the events team at any point during the day.
On the day of the event there will be refreshment stops included on the off-road, 75km, 100km and 100-mile route. Information of their locations will be shared with all riders prior to the event and clearly signposted en route. There will be plenty of opportunities to top up your water or grab a snack so ensure you have enough refreshments on you throughout the ride, and bring your own if needed.
If you witness an incident, please stop and call the Events Team on the above mobile number. For minor injuries, please ring the Events Team for assistance, quoting your rider number. In the event of a serious accidents, do not hesitate to ring 999 and then ring the Events Team to let us know.
If you cannot complete the ride for any reason and make your own way home, please inform our Events Team, quoting your rider number.
Are refreshments available?
Refreshment stops will be included on the 75km, 100km and 100-mile route. Information of their locations will be shared with all riders.
There will be plenty of opportunities to top up your water or grab a snack but please do ensure you have enough refreshments on you throughout the ride.
How can I show who I'm cycling for?
Fundraising
Does my donation go entirely to the charity?
Yes. 100% of your underlying donation comes directly to us, the charity. Our fundraising platform provider, ensures that every penny of your gift supports our mission. The only deduction applied is the standard payment processing fee charged by our payment provider, Stripe, which is typically 1.4% + 25p per transaction for UK credit cards.
