Guided Horse Riding at Sett Valley Trail, Hayfield | Unthank Equestrian
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Guided Horse Riding at Sett Valley Trail, Hayfield — What to Expect
If you've been looking for a relaxed, sociable guided hack in the High Peak, the Sett Valley Trail at Hayfield might just be exactly what you and your horse have been looking for.
We're thrilled to be offering guided rides along this beautiful route from July 2026, led by our lovely new ride leader Katy — a freelance equine sports massage and rehabilitation therapist who knows this corner of Derbyshire inside out.
What is the Sett Valley Trail?
The Sett Valley Trail is a former railway line running through the stunning countryside around Hayfield in the High Peak, Derbyshire. It's flat, wide and traffic-free — making it a wonderful route for horses and riders of all confidence levels. The trail winds through woodland and open countryside, with gorgeous views across the valley and a really peaceful, away-from-it-all feel.
It's exactly the kind of ride where you can actually relax, take in your surroundings and have a good natter as you go.
What does the ride include?
Our Sett Valley guided hack is 1.5 hours in the saddle at a steady walk and trot, with a café stop partway round at the lovely Emma's Sett Valley Café in Hayfield — dog friendly, with tie rings so your horse can wait comfortably while you enjoy a well-earned coffee and cake. Allow around two hours all in.
The group is kept to a maximum of six riders, so it stays calm, sociable and personal. Katy leads the ride and manages all gates along the route, so you can ride through without dismounting.
The route is a public trail, so you'll pass the occasional dog walker or cyclist and there's one quiet road crossing — all completely manageable and something Katy will guide you through confidently.
Where do we meet?
📍 Hayfield Car Park, Station Road, Hayfield, SK22 2ES
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There's plenty of space for trailers, lorries and horseboxes, along with a stone mounting block and toilets on site. Parking is pay and display — 2 hours £7, 4 hours £10, all day £15, payable by cash, card or PayByPhone.
Is it right for me and my horse?
This ride is best suited to riders who are comfortable in walk and trot in a small group out on a public trail. Your horse should be happy hacking out in company and reasonably settled around the occasional dog walker or cyclist. It's a wonderful ride for building confidence, getting out somewhere new or simply enjoying a lovely morning with your horse in beautiful countryside.
Dates available in 2026
🌿 Monday 6th July 2026
🌿 Monday 3rd August 2026
🌿 Monday 14th September 2026
Places are limited to just six riders per ride. Head to our rides page to check availability and book your spot.
About Katy
Katy is a freelance equine sports massage and rehabilitation therapist based in the High Peak, where she lives with her three horses Harry, Jake and Smokey. She works mainly with youngsters and horses returning to work, and brings a deep understanding of how horses move and what they need to every ride she leads. Riders often come away not just having had a brilliant hack, but having learned something new about their horse too.
As well as the Sett Valley guided hacks, Katy also hosts 3-day riding camps here at Unthank Hall Farm in Holmesfield, Derbyshire — combining guided rides at Chatsworth and the farm, polework sessions and optional equine sports massage appointments.
Ready to book?
Head to our rides page to see all available dates and secure your place. If you have any questions, drop us a message — we'd love to help you find the right ride.