National Forest Way: Stage 4 Sence Valley to Ashby de la Zouch

On this stage, the National Forest Way travels through open farmland and attractive villages between Sence Valley Forest Park and the historic market town of Ashby de la Zouch. On the way, you will pass through the Woodland Trust’s flagship Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Wood and arrive on the edge of ‘King Coal’ country.

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 across the site, which features a lake, bird hide and trails.

Packington

The 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 15thcentury 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 visit the intriguing museum to discover where the name ‘de la Zouch’ came from.  

• Car Parking
• Grassy Paths
• Picnic Area

The Little Blue Bird Cafe