About Us

Our History

Adventure Starts Here

Clive Freshwater spent a lifetime dedicated to coaching sports and was the founder of Loch Insh Watersports. He started life as a professional footballer playing for Grimsby Town and Scunthorpe and finally a brief contract with Leeds United as reserve goalie. After graduating with a teaching degree in Physical Education he moved to Scotland to work at Glenmore Lodge as an instructor where he met his wife Sally and they laid down plans for a similar centre of their own.

Joint director with Duncan, Jonathan and Andrew, Sally Freshwater has been involved in every aspect of the business from the start. She continues to lend her advice, support and help when necessary. Visitors to the centre have Sally to thank for the lovely vibrant gardens where she loves to spend her retirement days.

Duncan, Andrew and Jonathan combine their collective sporting experience to ensure the Centre continues to deliver high quality, value for money outdoor experiences whatever your age and experience.

Together, they form part of the Board responsible for overseeing the running of Loch Insh and the continued development of the family business, cementing the family legacy for generations to follow.

Our Journey

From 1969 to Now

1969

The Beginnings

The journey begins when Clive purchases the beach at Loch Insh from the local church and set up the Cairngorm Canoeing and Sailing School.

1969

1970

A Discovery

During a walk through the woods one day, Clive discovered and old village hall at the top of the hill. After making a few enquiries he managed to purchase this old tin building and started building the accommodation for the centre.

1970

1972

The storm

The old Boathouse gets battered by high water and strong winds forcing it to be rebuilt.

1972

1973 - Present

Building a Vision

Clive begins the first of many large building projects that make Loch Insh what it is today. Many who knew him would say he was a builder at heart and he truly was never happier than when he had a project on, which from this year was pretty much every year until around 2006 when his full vision was finally realised.

1973 - Present

Stories

See What Our Visitors Have to Say!
Ammir Barakat
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We stayed at the chalet for a few days, it was a very comfy bed, amazing views, well equipped. The restaurant has really delicious food, served quickly by friendly and professional staff. The place is surrounded by picturesque scenery. It was nice!
Ashe Roberts
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This was a lovely place to stay with great customer service. Kim at reception was really lovely, Elen at the boathouse was a great server. The loch is beautiful and the chalets are very nice! Make sure to bring groceries unless you plan on eating at the boathouse every meal.
Anthony Buck
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Great activities, great food and friendly helpful staff. We have been visiting for years and always stop by when in the area.
Gar Murdoch
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Incredible place, accommodation was first class. Lots of fresh air and 2 mins from the loch.
Christopher Marshall
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Fantastic day out for the whole family with spectacular scenery to top it off. Staff are incredible and always looking to make your visit an enjoyable one.
Megan Argent
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We had an absolutely love meal a lunchtime here. Reasonably priced, cozy cafe, great food, great view.
Tom Mitchell (Mitchellious)
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Friendly staff, great location and price. Perfect way to spend the day on a loch.
Lisa Willis
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Had a great afternoon with friends paddle boarding and kayaking. Friendly and helpful staff. Fantastic location amazing scenery. We will definitely return.
Nathan Lawrence
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Huge range of kit and plenty of space for the family. Staff were super-helpful and got us on the water in no time. One of the most beautiful places we've swam/kayaked/canoe-ed/windsurfed… Thank you!
Matthew Lynn
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Hired paddle boards and Sit on top kayak and the service was excellent. Felt safe and the staff were all chatty and friendly. Cafe is good value too. So good we went back another day for more!!! Would recommend.
Stephen Barty
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First-class range of activities, excellent on-site facilities, fantastic staff. This is a perfect venue for all age groups. Really impressive and great value.
Graham Connor
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Had the most amazing day spent here. it was an impromptu visit and turned out to be the best day! Hired a canoe for the family in the morning, grabbing an amazing lunch then headed out on a kayak each in the afternoon! Brilliant set up, scenery and the weather was no too bad too. All the crew were amazing, helpful, friendly and knew their stuff. (I had never done anything like this but can't wait to visit again).
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we are upgrading our dry slope