In a world where social media often feels disconnected from reality, @rach_inthelakes stands out as a refreshing voice for adventure and the great outdoors. With a passion for hiking, camping, and all things nature, Rach has garnered a dedicated following on Instagram, inspiring thousands to explore the stunning landscapes of the Lake District and beyond. We had the pleasure of talking with Rach about her love for the outdoors, the challenges she has faced and what drives her to keep exploring. Whether you're an experienced hiker or someone looking to reconnect with nature, Rach's insights and stories are sure to inspire your next adventure.
- What is it about the lake district that you love? Is this your favourite place to hike/camp or is there another place that holds your heart?
I love the vast landscape and rolling fells. You’re never too far from somewhere exciting to explore! It’s definitely my favourite place to hike because it’s my home and I’ve grown up here.
- What’s one piece of advice you would give to people who are deciding to document and share their outdoor adventures online? What made you start sharing your adventures online and would you recommend others to do so?
One piece of advice I’d give if you’re thinking of starting a hike/ adventure insta is just go for it!! The hike community is so vast and everyone is so nice. I've been welcomed by everyone and made so many friends since starting my page! I decided to start my page when I started to properly tick off my wainwrights rather than doing them casually and wanted to connect with others who had done the same and document my journey.
- What does a typical day look like for you when you're on an adventure?
A typical day for me when I’m on an adventure would be to probably wake up early because parking can be tricky later in the day, usually I’d have some breakfast on the go, then I’d start my hike! I take a lot of snacks, water and energy drinks to keep me going through the day. Always got to have snacks!
- What's the most challenging situation you've faced in the wilderness, and how did you overcome it?
Me and my boyfriend walked up Helvellyn from Thirlmere on what was a sunny day so we went in shorts and t-shirts. Since it was so lovely at the summit we decided to go down swirral edge and back up the striding edge. This was my first time on the iconic striding edge so I was excited but the weather took a really bad turn. Thunder, torrential rain and wind battered us! We didn’t have enough layers in our bags so ended up soaked and I’ll admit I was scared up there. Since then, I’ve made sure every single hike I go on I’ve got plenty of layers and extra clothes in my bag in case the weather changes unexpectedly. I’ve since gone back and tackled the striding edge, and absolutely love it!
- What's next on your adventure bucket list, and why does it excite you?
I’ve just recently been to Scotland and explored parts of the country I’d never been to before, so I’d like to do the same in Wales next! I’ve not explored it much at all and I know there’s some incredible places there! Always fun to explore somewhere new.
- How do you like to relax and recover after a particularly challenging adventure? Any guilty pleasures in your routine?
I love a chilled evening on the sofa, probably with some kind of takeaway. Chinese is my favourite for sure. My guilty pleasure is probably a pint of cider at the beer hall at Staveley. If you’ve never been, check it out!
As our conversation with rach_inthelakes comes to a close, it's clear that her love for the Lake District and the great outdoors is not just a hobby but a way of life. Rach's passion shines through in every aspect of her journey and we hope learning a bit more about this Instagram sensation will encourage some of you to get outdoors! Whether she’s overcoming challenges in unpredictable weather or taking the time to relax and recover amidst nature’s beauty, Rach embodies the spirit of exploration and resilience.
We hope her experiences and insights inspire you to embark on your own adventures, and we encourage you to follow her journey on Instagram for more stunning landscapes and outdoor inspiration. She definitely got a follow from us and we can't wait to see where the adventures take her next!
