Rachel Howatson
Digital Writer
Rachel Howatson is a digital writer for Countryfile.com. With a love of hiking and campervanning, she is most at home in the great outdoors, where you’ll find her reviewing the latest outdoor kit for Countryfile’s gear section. Waterproofs, camping stoves, and even the best tea bags for a morning brew — all put through rigorous testing. Growing up on the east coast of Scotland, Rachel loves nothing more than a dog walk along one of the area’s many beautiful beaches. A two year stint tackling New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Milford Track and the Abel Tasman Coast being her personal favourites, fuelled a passion for multi-day walks. Next up? All 870 miles of the Wales Coastal Path.. Rachel is a BJTC-trained journalist with bylines in Gardens Illustrated, BBC Science Focus Magazine and Gathered. An experienced consumer writer, you can trust she’s finding the best deals and latest products to help you enjoy the countryside all the more.
Recent articles by Rachel Howatson
Don’t buy walking boots until you see these 2025 winners - Tried and tested by experts
From rugged trails to rainy hillwalks, we review the best hiking boots from trusted names like Scarpa and Helly Hansen.
Searching for the best coffee subscriptions? I tested them so you don’t have to
We put the kettle on, and review Grind, Pact, Lost Sheep and Union coffee.
Best peppermint teas 2025: brewed and reviewed
We popped the kettle on and put a number of peppermint teas to the test – read on and find yourself a new favourite cuppa.
Best decaf and caffeine-free teas reviewed: 7 sleep-friendly brews
Read our review of the best decaf and caffeine-free teas, and find a brew that won't keep you up all night.
Calling all Glastonbury goers! Have you packed everything on this essential checklist?
Heading to your first family festival, or perhaps you're returning to a beloved field with friends this summer? Pack with confidence with our festival checklist.
Best changing robes for 2025: Dry robes tried & tested for wild swimming, surfing and the beach
Find out how leading brands, including Red, Dryrobe and Regatta, fare on sand and shore.
Left it late? These last minute Father's Day gifts will genuinely impress your outdoorsy dad
Find present inspiration with our Father's Day gift guide, filled with outdoor wear, camping gadgets, pizza ovens, model train sets and more
From ostrich eggs to chocolate sandwiches: these are the most unusual Easter eggs you can buy in 2025
Our roundup of the best unusual Easter eggs is sure to be a surprising spring treats for 2025.
The best hedgehog houses for your garden in 2025
Provide a safe and sheltered spot for your spiky visitors this year with a charming hedgehog house.
Best umbrellas tried and tested in 2025: brilliant brollies for rainy strolls
Be drizzle and downpour ready with our review of the best umbrellas on the market. Fulton, Totes, Barbour and Mountain Warehouse are put to the test.
Mother's Day gifts for your outdoorsy mum: reviewed and loved by our team
Our list of reviewed gift ideas – including socks, flasks and books – is here to help.
Best walking trousers for men and women - tried and tested for 2025
We've tested the best walking trousers to suit all budgets and types of walkers
Best walking holidays for 2025: Hiking routes, guided tours and accommodation
Explore our beautiful coastlines and countryside on foot with our guide to the best walking holidays in the UK
We reviewed the best Christmas hampers you can gift this Christmas: for friends, family and even your pooch
Our review of the best Christmas hampers on the market this festive season. Read on, and spoil your loved ones with their favourite snacks and tipples.
The best Cyber Monday outdoor deals for 2024: huge savings on Patagonia, Rab, Merrell and more
Upgrade your walking wardrobe, camping kit and holiday essentials on a budget.
Best fleeces for men and women tested for 2025: our ultimate guide to the must-have midlayer
Looking to beat the chill, or in need of a new midlayer? We review the best fleeces on the market.
Best waterproof backpacks reviewed in 2025 for rainy hikes and wet-weather adventures
The best backpacks for wet-weather and aquatic adventures – great for walkers, hikers, cyclists, trail-runners, kayakers and stand-up paddle-boarders
Best outdoor gifts 2025: For adventurers and nature lovers
Browse our guide to find inspiring outdoorsy and nature-themed gifts to suit all budgets.
The best mushroom gifts for 2025: 13 fun fungi present ideas
Help the fungi fan in your life celebrate their favourite vegetable with our round-up of the best mushroom gifts.
The best water shoes reviewed in 2025: we explore from streams to shores
Whether you're a wild swimmer, a water sports fan, or a paddling enthusiast, pop on a pair of water shoes for a more comfortable experience
The best walking socks reviewed in 2025 for all hiking conditions
Our team reviews a selection of the best walking socks including anti-blister, bamboo and wool choices. Get ready to stride in comfort.
Best Black Friday tent deals in 2024
Read our guide to find the very best Black Friday tent deals out there this year
Best Black Friday UK travel deals: save on rail fares, accommodation and family days out
Looking to treat your family to a special day out, or a weekend's break in the great outdoors? Explore the best UK travel deals on offer this Black Friday
Dryrobe Advance Short Sleeve review: this serious bit of kit is both practical and luxurious
Are you tempted to join the changing robe hype? We see how one of Dryrobe's core designs, the Advance Short Sleeve, handles life by the water.