The park was created as part of an extensive land reclamation project following the closure of the Field Head opencast coal mine.
The site includes several deep water lakes that were formerly mining voids, now repurposed as wildlife sanctuaries.
The diverse habitat mix includes areas of wildflower meadows that are specifically managed to support native pollinator populations.
The park's topography is man-made, specifically engineered to mask the legacy of heavy industrial extraction.
Sence Valley is part of a larger regional initiative to increase woodland cover within the National Forest area.
Sence Valley Forest Park is a 150-acre reclaimed landscape situated on the site of a former opencast coal mine. The park features a mix of young woodland, grasslands, and several lakes that have become significant habitats for local wildlife. A network of all-weather paths provides access for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders throughout the reclaimed terrain. The area serves as a key biodiversity hub in Leicestershire, supporting species such as kingfishers, dragonflies, and various migratory birds. The landscape is characterized by undulating hills formed during the site's restoration from its industrial past. The park is managed by Forestry England, ensuring ongoing maintenance of the trails and natural features. It acts as a primary recreational green space for residents of Ibstock and the surrounding North West Leicestershire area.
The raised viewpoints overlooking the largest central lake during the golden hour.
Bring binoculars if you are interested in birdwatching, as the lakes attract diverse waterfowl.
Follow the marked paths carefully to protect the regenerating vegetation in the off-trail zones.
Ensure your footwear is suitable for potentially muddy paths, especially following periods of rain.
Do not swim in the lakes, as they contain steep shelves and hidden underwater obstacles left over from the mining era.
Keep dogs on leads in areas where grazing livestock or ground-nesting birds are present; follow the Countryside Code.
