Tibshelf brings together nature and walking trails with specific historical points of interest for planning a trip. At Tibshelf Ponds, the focus is on short walks, fishing and facilities for horse riders; two trails offer further opportunities for walking, cycling or horse riding. A park adds to the outdoor activities, while the church and the history of oil offer a different perspective on the area. Base your choice on whether you mainly want to spend time outdoors or learn about Tibshelf’s history.
Walks, Ponds and Trails
At Tibshelf Ponds, short walks pass through wildflower meadows and woodland; visitors can fish in the two fishing ponds. This brings together a short walk through the landscape and an activity on the water. For planning purposes, this gives you a clear choice: your visit can focus on getting out and about on the trails or on fishing.
A purpose-built canter track and parking for horse trailers also make Tibshelf Ponds a relevant option when planning a visit with a horse.
The Five Pits Trail offers a different kind of route planning. It is suitable for walking, pushchairs, cycling and horse riding, runs through Tibshelf and Pilsley, and ends at Holmewood and Grassmoor Country Park. In addition to the activities listed, its route is also important when choosing: two named places and a set endpoint give you points of reference.
The Silverhill Trail also offers opportunities for walking, cycling and horse riding. It lies between Tibshelf and Huthwaite; both villages are located between M1 junctions 28 and 29. The junctions therefore indicate the location of the villages, not the route of the trail. To compare it with the Five Pits Trail, the location is useful: Silverhill lies between Tibshelf and Huthwaite, while the Five Pits Trail runs through Tibshelf and Pilsley to the country park.
Tibshelf Park has a playground and open spaces suitable for walking or picnicking. You can choose to focus on a walk through the open spaces or a picnic; the playground adds to these options.
Church and Industrial History
The original building of the Church of St John the Baptist in Tibshelf dates from the 15th century. A bell in the church is of historical significance and dates from around 1520. The two dates relate to different things: the 15th century refers to the original church building, while around 1520 refers to the bell.
Tibshelf was the site of the first oil well on mainland England; production ceased in 1945. This adds an industrial dimension to the area’s history, alongside its church and landscape.
Discover more destinations: Coton In The Elms, Horsley Woodhouse, Ault Hucknall, Yeaveley, Codnor, Long Eaton, Mickleover, Grassmoor
For the wider travel overview: Derbyshire.
