Adolf,
If you are north of the tyne look at Gosforth Road Club, they have a rides for varying ability, the faster lads will rip your legs off though. On the south side Sunderland Clarion have organised rides, there are clarion posters on here. The triathlon clubs do runs too.
Riding in a group is a must if you fancy road racing. Getting used to riding close to other people is essential. Otherwise you will cause acciddents in a bunch. Triathletes who move in to road racing have this habbit. Pure triathletes don't seem to ride so well close together and don't corner well either, they come off their line and are slower.
If you plan to do long miles, 60+ a group will help the time fly and keep your interest.
You get a chance to compare and rate your ability in a friendly atmosphere, some sprint for hill tops or road signs.
Once you get used to riding close to people, most folks won't mind you jumping on the back of whatever group comes along as long as you do your part. This is a good way to build your muscular endurance.
There are club time trials around too. The age varies a lot here and I've seen 18 year olds and 70 year olds.
TT's are a way of finding other people with similar interests and abilities.
The youngest I've seen on a club run is 14 but I've seen a lot younger on the northumbrian roads with parents and friends.
You don't see people picking on groups either, unless it's out of a car window.
I do a tt on Wednesday nights with a very friendly triathlon club in South Tyneside, I'd be happy to show you the ropes.
(I held a 1st cat licence 25 years ago and the clubs are full of knackered old farts like me who are willing to help you get started ).