Wild Swimming
Loch Insh
Loch Insh is a broad, relatively shallow loch on the River Spey floodplain south of Kingussie — one of only a handful of Scottish lochs with a genuine sandy inlet. Insh Marshes (RSPB reserve) adjoins the eastern shore, making this a superb wildlife swim as well as a lovely spot. The Loch Insh Outdoor Centre operates watersports from the eastern beach; the western shore gives quieter access through birch woodland.
Quick facts
- Type
- Loch
- Region
- Cairngorms
- Grid ref
- NH 832 053
- Entry
- Gravel / pebble
- Depth
- Medium (chest-deep)
- Summer water temp
- 11–18°C
- Midges
- Moderate
- Dogs
- Off-lead OK
Key hazards
- cold water shock
- watersport activity — stay near the western shore away from dinghy area
Getting there
Kincraig village (PH21 1NU) — park on the road near the church and walk to the western shore via the Spey floodplain path. The Outdoor Centre on the eastern shore has its own car park and visitor facilities. SOAC rights apply to all shores.
Parking postcode: PH21 1NU
Safety
Watersport activity is concentrated on the eastern shore — avoid that area for open swimming. Flooding from the Spey can change loch levels rapidly after heavy rain.
Best for
- wildlife swimming
- families
- Speyside walk combination
Nearby
Current conditions
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 05:10
- Sunset
- 21:15
- Civil dawn
- 04:20
- Civil dusk
- 22:05
NOAA Solar Calculator · 9 May 2026
Common questions
- Is Loch Insh good for families?
- Yes — the shallower profile and sandy/gravel entry on the western shore makes it one of the friendlier Cairngorms swims for children. The Outdoor Centre on the eastern shore also offers kayaking lessons if children want more water time.
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