Sence Valley Forest Park covers an area of approximately 60 hectares (150 acres).  The main entrance is off Ravenstone Road, Ibstock and there is a pedestrian access from Heather.

The entrance has a height restriction barrier of 2.2m. Anyone wishing to enter the site with a larger vehicle should contact the Forestry Commission distict office on 01889 586593 at least 48 hours in advance of a visit.

Between 1982 and 1996 this section of the Sence Valley formed part of a large opencast mining area covering approx. 186 hectares (460 acres).  During this period about 8 million tons of coal were extracted.  Once extraction was completed the site was restored to the landscape seen today, which includes the three lakes linked by the River Sence.

The site has been planted to form part of the National Forest and was opened to the public in September 1998.

There is an extensive network of paths and forest roads providing access for pedestrians, wheelchair users, cyclists and horse riders.  The different routes can be identified throughout the park by following symbols displayed on posts.

For further information on the site or for details of events taking place on the site contact the Leicestershire County Council Park Ranger Service on 01455 290429 or the Forestry Commission Area Forester on 01889 586593.