Insch

Insch is a village in Garioch, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It is located approximately 28mi from the city of Aberdeen.EtymologyThe name of the village may have come from the Scottish Gaelic innis, meaning an island, or, as in this context, a piece of terra firma in a marsh. Alternatively, inch or innis can refer to a meadow or low-lying pasture which more closely corresponds with the site of the village. Innis also indicates the presence of water - a river, loch or estuary, perhaps - often seen as Inch in place names, as in Perth's famous North and South Inches on the west bank of the River Tay. Inchnadamph at the eastern end of Loch Assynt is another example. Innis can also be translated as haven or sanctuary - an island where you can be safe from your enemies as much as a resting place on the cattle drove.HistoryIn the Middle Ages, the village was home to a colony of Flemish merchants.TransportThe village is served by Insch railway station and has regular bus services to Huntly and Inverurie with connections to Aberdeen and InvernessFacilitiesThere is a small selection of general and specialist shops, and a post office. There is also a leisure centre with a variety of activities next to which there is an 18-hole golf course. There is also a (greens) bowling club attached to the local library. Plans have been passed for a much needed coffee shop in Commerce Street.