Is one of the largest villages in England and of very ancient origin. The name suggests that a Saxon chieftain named “Ibba” established a settlement here – that is “Ibba’s Stockade”. In the Domesday book it is listed as being a hamlet with “six ploughlands”
The Church of St Denys is mainly of the 13th Century. However, the list of records goes back to 1160, so there was probably a Norman church on the site and possibly a Saxon predecessor to that. William Laud, one of the most important and controversial figures in ecclesiastical history, was the Rector of Ibstock from 1617 to 1626. He later became Archbishop of Canterbury and with the support of Charles l sought to repair some of the ravages of the reformation. This provoked the enmity of the Puritans. When a trial for high treason failed to prove the charges, Parliament passed a bill to secure his execution and he was beheaded in the Tower in 1643.
Sence Valley Forest Park is a wonderful example of how a disused opencast colliery can be transformed into a diverse wildlife haven. After being planted with over 98,000 trees this 150 acre site was opened to the public in September 1998 as part of The National Forest. The park contains woodland, lakes linking to the River Sence, grassland and a wildflower meadow. Thanks to the varied habitat 150 bird species have been recorded at the park. An artificial Sand Martin nesting wall has also been constructed alongside the Horseshoe Lake. This along with the bird hide makes the site an excellent spot for birdwatchers. Opportunities for recreation at the park include fishing on one of the lakes, a bridleway and surfaced trails which provide access for walkers, cyclists and are wheelchair friendly.