Attractions and Places To See around Ibstock - Top 20

Ibstock and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the Grade II-listed St Denys' Church, which dates back to the 13th century, or explore the historical Manor House. The Moira Furnace and Canal offers insights into the region's industrial past with its iron furnace, museum, and canal-side walks. Further afield, the Ruins of Bradgate House, a Tudor mansion once home to Lady Jane Grey, provides a glimpse into 16th-century life.

Yes, Sence Valley Forest Park is a prominent natural attraction spanning 150 acres, offering walking trails, fishing lakes, and bird-watching opportunities. It's an excellent example of reclaimed industrial land transformed into beautiful woodlands and green spaces. You can also enjoy panoramic views from Beacon Hill Summit, the second highest peak in Leicestershire, which showcases spectacular views of Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley.

For families, Sence Valley Forest Park offers picnic spots and easy walking trails. The Moira Furnace and Canal features a visitors' centre, museum, and a children's play area, making it a great day out. The historical Ruins of Bradgate House are also considered family-friendly, offering an engaging historical experience.

Ibstock is surrounded by various walking opportunities. Sence Valley Forest Park has several popular hiking loops. For more structured routes, you can find easy hikes like the 'Sence Valley Country Park to Kelham Bridge Nature Reserve loop' or the 'Blower's Brook loop from Ibstock'. Explore more options on the Easy hikes around Ibstock guide.

Beyond its ancient history, Ibstock has a rich industrial past. The Ibstock Brick Heritage Centre provides fascinating insights into the village's brick-making industry through interactive exhibits. Additionally, the Moira Furnace and Canal is a significant historical site related to iron production and canal transport, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial revolution.

Absolutely. Beacon Hill Summit offers 360-degree views across Charnwood Forest and the Soar Valley. Another excellent viewpoint is Old John Tower, Bradgate Park, a folly situated on the highest hill in Bradgate Park, providing extensive views across Leicester and Leicestershire.

The area around Ibstock is suitable for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the 'Sence Valley Forest Park loop from Ibstock'. Cycling enthusiasts can explore routes like the 'Hicks Lodge Trail – Donisthorpe Woodland Park loop from Ibstock'. For more details on these and other routes, check out the Running Trails around Ibstock and Cycling around Ibstock guides.

Yes, Mount St Bernard Abbey is a Roman Catholic, Trappist monastery near Coalville. It was the first permanent monastery founded in England since the Reformation and is known for its stunning architecture, peaceful grounds, and unique Trappist beer brewed by the monks.

Many of Ibstock's natural and historical attractions, such as Sence Valley Forest Park and the historical sites, are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking and outdoor activities, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Winter walks can also be charming, especially in the forest parks.

Sence Valley Forest Park is an excellent spot for wildlife spotting, with its diverse habitats including woodlands and lakes, attracting various bird species. The green spaces managed by the Ibstock company also support local biodiversity, including eco-habitats for wildlife like bees, bats, swifts, and hedgehogs.

You'll find facilities at several locations. Beacon Hill Summit has a cafe. The Moira Furnace and Canal site includes a visitors' centre, museum, and a cafe. Additionally, many local villages and towns around Ibstock will have cafes and shops.