A Gentle Hike Along The Sett Valley Trail | 5 Miles
If you’re looking for a gentle walk that still shows off some Peak District charm, the Sett Valley Trail is a brilliant choice. Running between Hayfield and New Mills, this old railway line winds through woodland, riverside paths and open meadows. It’s perfect for a relaxed stroll, a family walk, or even a cycle with the kids, and you get all the scenery without any stressful hill climbs.
The trail has a bit of history too. It used to be an active railway line from Hayfield to New Mills, opening way back in 1868. For years it carried goods and passengers, helping local mills and welcoming visitors eager to get into the hills. The line closed in 1970, but not long after it was transformed into the Sett Valley Trail, giving walkers, cyclists and horse riders a traffic‑free path through the valley. Today it’s also part of the Pennine Bridleway, connecting the past with modern outdoor adventures.
How long is the Sett Valley Trail?
The trail is about 2.5 miles one way, so a return walk is roughly 5 miles. It’s flat and easy, making it a great option if you’re after something low‑key.
Sett Valley Trail Map
Here’s a map of the Sett Valley Trail.
Route map (opens in OS Maps app): Sett Valley Trail – Hayfield to New Mills
How long does it take to walk the Sett Valley Trail?
At a relaxed pace, the one‑way walk takes around 50 to 70 minutes. Most people do it as a 2 to 3 hour round trip if you stop for a coffee, a picnic, or to enjoy the scenery along the way.
Where can I park for the Sett Valley Trail?
At the Hayfield end there’s a car park on the old station site with toilets and a visitor centre, which is handy for starting the walk. Sett Valley Trail parking at Hayfield, High Peak SK22 2ES W3W:///crusher.snoring.automatic
In New Mills you’ll find town‑centre car parks or spaces near the trail entrance at New Mills, High Peak SK22 4BS W3W:///spaceship.starts.game. Try to avoid the cobbled streets by Torrs if you’re on a bike or have a pushchair.
What’s the Trail like?
On the trail you can expect flat, traffic‑free paths through riverside woodland and meadows. There are a few lovely spots to pause and enjoy the view, and you can connect easily to cafes or historic points of interest at either end. The River Sett flows alongside in places, adding a bit of gentle background soundtrack to your walk, and you’ll spot the occasional mill or old railway feature along the way.
We walked along the Trail as part of a longer walk including Lantern Pike – you can find the route at Lantern Pike and the Sett Valley Trail | 8 Miles.
You could also add on a trip to the Millennium Walkway at Torrs Riverside Park and explore the area around the Torrs Hydro.
The Sett Valley Trail shows that you don’t need to tackle huge hills to enjoy the Peaks. It’s a peaceful, pretty stretch of countryside that works for families, walkers of all abilities, or anyone wanting a taste of the outdoors without the sweat. If you’re in the area and fancy a gentle wander or a slow cycle through the valley, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Other walks from Hayfield include:
