Stage 4 National Forest Way: Sence Valley & Ashby de la Zouch
The National Forest Way takes walkers on a 75-mile journey through a transforming landscape.
On this 5¾-mile stage, the Way travels through open farmland and attractive villages. It will take you between Sence Valley Forest Park, formerly an opencast coal mine, and the bustling historic market town of Ashby de la Zouch.
On this section you will also pass through the Woodland Trust's flagship Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Wood.
Location Map
Ibstock Leicestershire
Points of Interest
Sence Valley Forest Park
Sence Valley Forest Park was once part of a large opencast coal mine. Nearly 100,000 trees, planted in 1998, have softened a black, scarred moonscape into a lush green bowl, surrounding three lakes and a river, where swans, coots, ducks and even otters have made their home.
Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Wood
This extensive site is the centrepiece of a national celebration by the Woodland Trust to mark the 2012 Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. Over 300,000 native trees have been planted and the site features a lake, bird hide and trails.
Packington
The attractive village of Packington has one of five 18th century lock-ups to be found across North West Leicestershire and South Derbyshire. Also known as round houses, cages, watch houses, blind houses and clinks, these tiny brick buildings were temporary holding places for offenders being brought before the magistrate.
Ashby de la Zouch
Ashby's fascinating 15th century castle was mostly destroyed during the Civil War and is now a captivating ruin. Elsewhere in the town, browse the farmers' market and independent shops, and
Image Gallery
