The Boathouse Restaurant Loch Insh: Scenic Dining in the Scottish Highlands
Charming Highland dining with stunning Loch Insh views and hearty Scottish fare at the heart of the Cairngorms outdoor centre.
Nestled within the Loch Inch Outdoor Centre near Kincraig, Inverness, The Boathouse Restaurant Loch Insh offers visitors a charming dining experience with stunning views over Loch Insh. Known for its warm Scottish hospitality, the restaurant serves a variety of hearty meals, snacks, and drinks in a cozy setting. Its location makes it a favored spot for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers exploring the Cairngorms region.
A brief summary to The Boathouse Restaurant Loch Insh
- shire, Loch Inch Outdoor Centre, Inverness, Kincraig, PH21 1NU, GB
- +441540651394
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 pm-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-8 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Try the hearty Sunday roast or the Friday curry night for a flavorful local experience.
- Enjoy a hot chocolate or a drink at the bar while taking in panoramic views of Loch Insh.
- Reserve a table in advance during peak seasons to secure a window seat with the best views.
- Combine your visit with outdoor activities at the Loch Inch Outdoor Centre for a full Highland adventure.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Boathouse Restaurant Loch Insh location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Boathouse Restaurant Loch Insh
A Picturesque Highland Setting
The Boathouse Restaurant is situated at the heart of the Loch Inch Outdoor Centre, a hub for water sports and outdoor activities in the Cairngorms National Park. Overlooking the serene Loch Insh, the restaurant’s location provides breathtaking panoramic views of the loch and surrounding hills, making it a perfect retreat for visitors seeking both natural beauty and comfort. The tranquil waters and lush greenery of the area create an inviting atmosphere that complements the dining experience.Welcoming Ambience and Rustic Charm
Inside, the Boathouse exudes a relaxed and friendly vibe, with a décor that blends rustic Highland charm and practical comfort. The dining room is clean and comfortable, designed to accommodate visitors coming from outdoor adventures or leisurely drives through the Highlands. The presence of a bar adds a sociable element, offering a range of drinks to enjoy while soaking in the views. The restaurant’s atmosphere is casual yet warm, appealing to families, couples, and solo travelers alike.Menu Highlights and Culinary Approach
The menu focuses on hearty, comforting dishes inspired by Scottish cuisine, with options ranging from light snacks and soups to more substantial meals like roasts and burgers. Freshness and quality are emphasized, with many dishes prepared to suit the tastes of outdoor enthusiasts looking for nourishing fare after active days. The restaurant also hosts special events such as Friday curry nights, which have been praised for their flavorful offerings. While prices are moderate, the combination of quality food and spectacular views justifies the experience.Service and Visitor Experience
Staff at The Boathouse are known for their friendly and attentive service, contributing to a welcoming environment. Visitors often highlight the helpfulness of the team and the efficiency of service, even during busy periods. The restaurant’s connection to the outdoor centre means that it is a popular stop for those engaging in water sports or hiking, providing a convenient and satisfying dining option. The large windows and seating arrangements maximize the scenic views, making every meal memorable.Local Significance and Outdoor Integration
As part of the Loch Inch Outdoor Centre, The Boathouse plays an integral role in the local tourism and outdoor activity scene. It serves as a social and culinary hub for visitors exploring the Cairngorms, offering a place to relax and refuel. The proximity to the loch and outdoor facilities means that the restaurant is uniquely positioned to blend nature, activity, and hospitality in one location. This integration enhances the overall Highland experience for travelers.Seasonal Appeal and Accessibility
Open daily with varying hours, The Boathouse caters to visitors year-round, though its appeal peaks during warmer months when outdoor activities are in full swing. The setting is accessible and family-friendly, with facilities that accommodate a diverse range of guests. Whether stopping by for a hot chocolate after a chilly paddle or enjoying a leisurely lunch with friends, the restaurant offers a versatile and inviting space in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Centre of Scotland Stone
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Soldiers Head
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Discover Soldiers Head near Inverness, a natural Highland landmark steeped in history and local legend, offering stunning views and cultural significance.
Milton of Clava
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Drumdevan Country House, Inverness
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Culloden Viaduct
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Leanach Farm
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Experience authentic Highland farm life with luxury comfort, scenic views, and historic sites just minutes from Inverness.
Highland Scenery
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Lochardil House
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Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre
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Circle of Wise
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Ness Islands
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Experience the natural beauty of Ness Islands in Inverness, Scotland, a tranquil retreat with picturesque paths, vibrant wildlife, and stunning river views.
Inverness Botanic Gardens
43.0 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Inverness Botanic Gardens, a vibrant sanctuary filled with exotic plants and tranquil landscapes in the heart of the Highlands.
Drumin Castle
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Discover the majestic Drumin Castle, a stunning historical landmark in Ballindalloch that offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich heritage.
Kingsmills Hotel
43.2 km
Historic elegance meets modern luxury with spa, pool, fine dining, and tranquil grounds just minutes from Inverness city center.
Torrish at Ness Walk
43.4 km
Experience the essence of Scottish cuisine at Torrish at Ness Walk, where fine dining meets breathtaking views of the River Ness.
Unmissable attractions to see
Zip Trek Adventure Park Aviemore
3.9 km
Experience thrilling zip lines across a stunning Scottish gorge in the heart of Aviemore’s ancient pine forests.
Ruthven Barracks
8.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Ruthven Barracks, a commanding 18th-century Highland fortress steeped in Jacobite history and scenic beauty.
Rothiemurchus
9.1 km
Explore ancient forests, thrilling outdoor adventures, and Highland heritage at Rothiemurchus Estate near Aviemore.
Little Landys, Rothiemurchus
9.1 km
Thrilling off-road driving for kids aged 6-11 on a safe, purpose-built 4x4 track in the heart of Rothiemurchus, Aviemore.
Craigellachie National Nature Reserve (Entrance)
9.2 km
Silver birch sanctuary with summit views, where woodland solitude meets Cairngorms panoramas.
Spey Valley Shopping
9.6 km
Luxury shopping in the heart of Aviemore’s Cairngorms National Park, featuring premium brands, gifts, and a delightful food hall.
VisitScotland Aviemore iCentre
9.8 km
Your welcoming gateway to exploring Aviemore and the Cairngorms with expert advice, bookings, and local insights.
Aviemore
10.9 km
Aviemore, nestled in the Cairngorms, combines rich history, stunning landscapes, and year-round outdoor adventures for every traveler.
Highland Folk Museum
12.1 km
Step back in time at Britain’s first open-air museum, where Highland history and heritage come alive across an 80-acre living landscape.
Loch Morlich
14.4 km
A stunning freshwater loch with a sandy beach, nestled beneath the Cairngorm Mountains, offering watersports, walking trails, and breathtaking Highland scenery.
Cairngorm Mountain
15.2 km
Scotland's premier mountain resort where winter skiing meets year-round Highland adventure in the heart of the Cairngorms.
Dinosaur kingdom
19.1 km
Explore life-sized dinosaurs and thrilling adventures in the heart of Scotland’s Cairngorms at Landmark Forest Adventure Park.
Landmark Forest Adventure Park
19.2 km
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Old Pack Horse Bridge
19.6 km
Historic 1717 stone arch bridge in Carrbridge, known as the 'Coffin Bridge,' spanning the River Dulnain with enduring Highland heritage.
RSPB Scotland Loch Garten Nature Centre
19.8 km
Experience ancient Caledonian pine forest and iconic ospreys at the RSPB Loch Garten Nature Centre in Scotland’s Highlands.
Essential places to dine
The Boathouse Restaurant Loch Insh
0.0 km
Charming Highland dining with stunning Loch Insh views and hearty Scottish fare at the heart of the Cairngorms outdoor centre.
The Old Bridge Inn
9.2 km
A cozy Highland gastro pub on the River Spey, blending hearty local fare, live music, and warm hospitality in Aviemore.
Happy Haggis
9.4 km
Aviemore’s cherished family-run spot serving crispy, delicious fish and chips with warm, friendly service since 1974.
Coylumbridge Hotel
9.5 km
Family-friendly resort nestled in the Cairngorms with pools, adventure parks, and Highland charm for all ages.
Macduis Speyside Inn Catering Ltd
9.6 km
A welcoming Highland pub in Aviemore serving hearty comfort food with a famously dog-friendly atmosphere and attentive service.
The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar
10.1 km
Discover the charm of The Winking Owl in Aviemore – your go-to spot for craft ales and delightful cuisine amidst stunning Scottish landscapes.
Cairngorm Cafe
15.2 km
Cozy café nestled in Cairngorm Mountain ski area serving hearty seasonal food with stunning Highland views year-round.
Ptarmigan Restaurant
16.6 km
Dine at the UK’s highest restaurant with panoramic Highland views and hearty local fare atop Cairngorm Mountain.
Andersons Restaurant
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Cozy and intimate dining in Boat of Garten, blending bistro charm with Scottish flavors for memorable family and special occasions.
The Clunie Dining Room
33.8 km
Elegant Scottish fine dining with wood-fired flavors and striking contemporary art in the heart of Braemar’s Cairngorms.
The Dores Inn
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A welcoming Highland pub with stunning Loch Ness views, hearty fare, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for soaking in Scotland’s natural beauty.
The Loft Restaurant
39.2 km
Experience warm hospitality and fresh Scottish flavors in the scenic Cairngorms at The Loft Restaurant, Blair Atholl’s beloved dining spot.
The Lewiston
40.7 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality and hearty Scottish cuisine near the legendary Loch Ness at The Lewiston.
Fiddlers Highland Restaurant
41.5 km
Cozy Highland dining with authentic Scottish flavors and an award-winning whisky selection in the heart of Loch Ness country.
Killiecrankie House
42.3 km
Award-winning fine dining and luxury bedrooms in a contemporary Scottish country house.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Aviemore Gift Company
9.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and local crafts in Aviemore’s largest and most welcoming souvenir shop.
Ellis Brigham - Aviemore
9.7 km
Your expert outfitter for skiing, climbing, hiking, and outdoor adventure in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park.
Mountain Warehouse
9.8 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Aviemore for quality gear and expert advice in the heart of the Highlands.
Young's Auld Sweetie Shop
9.8 km
Nostalgic confectionery haven where vintage glass jars and pick-and-mix treasures await in the heart of Aviemore.
Cairngorm Mountain Sports
9.9 km
Your trusted outdoor sports shop in Aviemore, offering expert gear for alpine touring, climbing, skiing, and Nordic adventures year-round.
Blacks
10.0 km
Your essential outfitter for outdoor adventures in Aviemore, offering expert gear and advice for exploring the Scottish Highlands.
Trespass Aviemore
10.0 km
Essential outdoor clothing and equipment in Aviemore, perfect for exploring the Scottish Highlands year-round.
Nevisport
10.0 km
Your expert outfitter for top-quality outdoor gear and advice in the heart of Cairngorm National Park, Aviemore.
Tiso Aviemore Outdoor Experience
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The Snug
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Discover authentic Speyside whisky and local art in a cozy, rustic setting at The Snug, Aviemore’s boutique distillery experience.
Avi Boutique
10.1 km
Discover stylish local and branded fashion at Avi Boutique, Aviemore’s premier clothing shop in the scenic Cairngorms.
The Hairy Coo Shop
16.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish charm and unique Highland gifts at The Hairy Coo Shop, a cozy Newtonmore treasure with warm welcomes and fresh sandwiches.
The Shop At The Top
16.7 km
Discover unique Highland crafts and outdoor gear at The Shop At The Top, a charming Aviemore destination nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms.
Balliefurth Farm Shop
22.9 km
Highland heritage meets artisan quality in Scotland's Cairngorms—a family-run butcher and farm shop since 1948.
Ewe & Me
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
SUIE BAR
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The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
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Woodshed Bar
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Cairngorm Hotel
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Experience warm Scottish hospitality and cozy charm in Aviemore’s Cairngorm Hotel, your gateway to the Highlands.
Mambos
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Skiing Doo
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A beloved Aviemore bar and restaurant known for hearty British fare and friendly vibes, now closed but fondly remembered.
the Balavoulin
10.1 km
A cosy Highland pub and guesthouse in Aviemore offering hearty food, local drinks, and comfortable rooms in a warm, welcoming setting.
The Pine Marten Bar
14.6 km
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The Boat Country Inn & Restaurant
17.8 km
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Lochanully Bar
20.5 km
A cozy Highland bar nestled in tranquil birch woods, perfect for relaxing after exploring the Cairngorms and surrounding natural beauty.
Bar
28.0 km
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The Craig Bar
30.2 km
A lively Grantown-on-Spey pub famed for its exceptional pies, warm atmosphere, and authentic Highland hospitality.
Claymore Bar
30.3 km
A cozy and friendly Highland pub in Grantown-on-Spey offering hearty drinks, lively entertainment, and genuine Scottish hospitality.
Bertie's Bar
33.8 km
Discover Scotland’s whisky heritage in Bertie’s Bar, a glowing library of over 500 whiskies inspired by King Edward VII’s lavish spirit.
The Flying Stag
33.8 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Vault
9.9 km
Experience Aviemore’s vibrant nightlife at The Vault, a lively nightclub blending modern beats with Highland charm every weekend.
Private Eyes Inverness
44.4 km
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Xplosive Discos
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
Uncle Bob's Bar
52.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Uncle Bob's Bar in Nairn, a perfect blend of traditional pub charm and sports excitement.
Aido's bar
52.1 km
Discover Aido's Bar in Nairn: A cozy pub with a friendly atmosphere, serving a great selection of local ales and spirits.
The Play House
52.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Play House in Nairn, where great drinks and lively entertainment come together for an unforgettable evening.
Seaforth Club
52.3 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant social heart at Seaforth Club, where community spirit meets lively nightlife in a welcoming setting.
Jackos Bar & Diner
52.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill options at Jackos Bar & Diner in Nairn, perfect for families and sports fans alike.
The Ross Shire Club
61.4 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
The Gig
68.3 km
Experience Blairgowrie’s vibrant nightlife at The Gig, a welcoming and affordable nightclub in the heart of this scenic Scottish town.
Zed Bar
69.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zed Bar in Elgin, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Shmelgin
69.3 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Nepal at Shmelgin, Elgin's premier Nepalese restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious dishes.
Joannas Nightclub
69.3 km
Lively and casual nightclub in Elgin’s town centre, offering weekend late-night music, dancing, and social vibes in a friendly local setting.
Diceys
69.3 km
Experience the lively ambiance and local brews at Diceys, Elgin's favorite pub for relaxation and entertainment.
The Elgin Club
69.4 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Elgin Club, a local bar where visitors can unwind and connect in the heart of Elgin.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
