Living in Ibstock

Community and local life are central to living in Ibstock. The village is known for its welcoming, neighbourly atmosphere, with residents actively involved in local societies, groups, and events. Community centres such as the Ibstock Palace play host to a range of activities, from dance classes to live performances, and local churches organise events year-round.

Regular farmers’ markets and seasonal fairs bring the community together and support local producers. The large Sence Valley Forest Park and nearby sections of the National Forest offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, family walks, and nature activities, making green spaces a defining element of everyday life.

Volunteer groups, sports clubs, and an active parish council help to maintain the village’s community spirit, ensuring Ibstock remains a sociable and supportive place to call home.

Ibstock is generally considered a safe and peaceful village, with overall crime levels below those found in urban Leicestershire centres. The area’s rural setting and active neighbourhood watch schemes contribute to a strong sense of security among residents.

Community policing is visible, and ongoing initiatives to reduce anti-social behaviour ensure that public spaces remain welcoming. While, as with any area, some incidents occur, serious crime remains historically low and the local authority works closely with residents to maintain a safe environment. The presence of schools and family homes supports a responsible, neighbourly atmosphere, with regular communication between law enforcement and local groups.

Parking in Ibstock is typically straightforward, with plenty of on-street provision throughout the village’s residential areas. There are also several dedicated free public car parks near the village centre, shops, and local amenities. Aside from a few busier points during school drop-off and pick-up times, congestion is minimal, reflecting the village’s manageable traffic levels.

Ibstock benefits from excellent road access to major Midlands centres, thanks to its proximity to the A447 and the M1 motorway. This connectivity is useful for both daily commuting and regional travel, with short travel times to neighbouring towns and cities:

• Coalville – approx. 10 minutes via A447 (5 miles)
• Leicester – approx. 25 minutes via M1 (9 miles)
• Ashby-de-la-Zouch – approx. 12 minutes via A511 (7 miles)
• Loughborough – approx. 25 minutes via M1 (15 miles)

For day trips further afield, the M42 and A42 are also easily accessible, linking the area to Birmingham and the West Midlands.

Ibstock offers a traditional village social scene, centred around friendly public houses, independent cafés, and well-regarded local takeaways. Popular pubs such as the Queen’s Head and The Lamb Inn serve classic pub fare and a welcoming atmosphere, acting as social hubs for village life. Several cafés and bakeries in the high street provide spots for coffee, homemade cakes, and light lunches.

The village’s food options are supplemented by a handful of family-run takeaways, offering everything from fish and chips to Indian cuisine. Although Ibstock is not known for a lively nightlife, the pubs frequently host quiz nights, live music, and other events.

For a broader selection of restaurants, bars, and nightlife, residents often make the short trip to Ashby-de-la-Zouch or Leicester, where fine dining, world cuisines, and theatres can be found. Overall, the area is best suited to those seeking a relaxed and community-focused social experience.

School quality: Ibstock’s schools and colleges have good Ofsted ratings and are well-integrated with village life, supporting children’s educational journeys at all stages.

Parks and green space: Families benefit from access to Sence Valley Forest Park, local playgrounds, and easy journeys into the National Forest, providing varied outdoor activities.

Childcare: A selection of nurseries and pre-schools are available locally and in neighbouring villages, making early years care accessible for working parents.

Safety: With historically low crime rates and active neighbourhood watch schemes, Ibstock offers a reassuring and secure setting for families.

Family activities: Seasonal fairs, youth sports teams, and family-friendly events at community venues are regular highlights for children and parents alike.

Ibstock is a pet-friendly village thanks to its green surroundings and countryside access. Owners can make use of walking routes through the local woods, Sence Valley Forest Park, and beyond into National Forest pathways. Open fields and quieter residential streets are suitable for daily dog walks.

The area features several veterinary clinics and pet shops in nearby Coalville, providing services and supplies for animals of all sizes. Many local pubs and cafés welcome well-behaved dogs, reflecting a generally positive attitude towards pets within the community and in local housing policy.

Ibstock enjoys a strategic location close to key road networks that provide direct access across Leicestershire and the East Midlands. While the village itself doesn’t host a railway station, nearby Coalville and Leicester offer frequent rail services connecting to key destinations nationwide.

Public bus services run through Ibstock, connecting it to Leicester, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, and Hinckley. These regular routes are convenient for daily commuting or leisure trips to adjoining towns. The M1 motorway (Junction 22) is just a few miles to the east, ensuring smooth car access to major cities.

• Leicester – Approx. 25 minutes by car; direct bus services available
• Birmingham – Around 50 minutes by car via M42 and M6; trains from Leicester
• Nottingham – About 45 minutes by car via M1; train connections from Leicester
• East Midlands Airport – 20 minutes by car, providing domestic and international flights

Cyclists and walkers benefit from local routes, including the Ivanhoe Way and trails through the National Forest.

Ibstock offers a range of educational opportunities from early years to further education, making it appealing for families and students.

Primary Schools in Ibstock:
Ibstock Junior School stands out as a key local option, with a focus on nurturing children in a supportive environment. The Newcroft Primary Academy, located in nearby Shepshed, is also popular and received a 'Good' Ofsted rating in 2017. St Denys Church of England Infant School is at the centre of the community, recognised for its emphasis on early years development.

Secondary Schools in Ibstock:
Ibstock Community College is the principal secondary institution, serving students aged 11 to 16. The college, last inspected by Ofsted in 2023, was rated 'Good' and is known for its strong pastoral care and community involvement. In the surrounding area, Ashby School in Ashby-de-la-Zouch is also popular and well regarded, with a 'Good' Ofsted rating in 2021.

Further Education, Sixth Forms & Colleges:
King Edward VII College, based in Coalville, is the main sixth form provider locally, offering a variety of academic and vocational courses. Loughborough College, a short drive away, gives further opportunities for both school leavers and adult learners, with courses ranging from A-levels to apprenticeships.

Universities:
Ibstock is within commuter distance of major Midlands universities. The University of Leicester and De Montfort University in Leicester, as well as Loughborough University, are all around a 25–35 minute drive, making higher education accessible for residents.