I have heard people talk about some excellent clubs all around the UK. Perhaps because of where bear pear lives IE lots of hills, the clubs in those areas naturally incorporate hills as part of they're rides. It would be natural I suppose. I live in a very hilly area, and I pick my own routes mainly because I am absolutely rubbish at hills anyway.
I quite enjoy trying to find new country lanes to cycle down, and I have found one that I can ride to my hearts content to increase my fitness levels. I doubt I will ever be good enough to join a club, but thats all right. I'm having fun doing my own thing, and im sure bear pear will do the same. Well done for getting on a bike when so many don't bother doing anything.