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Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility

Houseboat near OVO Hydro in Glasgow

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Photo gallery for Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility

A compact living space with a sofa, a dining table, and a kitchenette.
A compact kitchen with a refrigerator, microwave, and stove. There is a dining area with a table set for two, and a window providing a view of the outside.
A large, multi-story building with a stone facade, a canal in the foreground, and several parked cars along the water's edge.
A cozy interior with a wood-burning stove, a desk with a computer, and a comfortable seating area.
A kitchen with a round window, a sink, and cabinets.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire house boat

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4829 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Free WiFi
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
Glasgow, Select
  • Place, Sauchiehall Street
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Buchanan Street
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Place, Glasgow Royal Concert Hall
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Airport, Glasgow (GLA-Glasgow Intl.)
    ‪15 min drive‬

Room options

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About the neighborhood

Glasgow

North West stay.Your stay at this North West houseboat places you within 3 miles (5 km) of University of Glasgow and OVO Hydro. Glasgow School of Art and Glasgow Caledonian University are also within half a mile (1 km).
View more Houseboats in GlasgowOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Great Western Road - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Sauchiehall Street - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Buchanan Street - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Glasgow Royal Concert Hall - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • University of Glasgow - 4 min drive - 1.7 miles

Getting around

  • Possilpark & Parkhouse Station - 3 min drive
  • Cowcaddens Station - 10 min walk
  • Glasgow International Airport (GLA) - 27 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cask & Clyde - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Doubletree By Hilton Glasgow Central Executive Lounge - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Ristorante Pieno - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪Jackson's Bar - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Ardnamurchan - ‬15 min walk

About this property

Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility

Discover a unique urban retreat aboard Gerda of Glasgow, a beautifully appointed Dutch barge moored just a 10-minute stroll from Glasgow's bustling city centre. This floating haven offers all the comforts of home with a dash of nautical charm.

Perfect for up to three guests, Gerda boasts an inviting open-plan kitchen and living area, warmed by a cosy log-burning fire. Two comfortable bedrooms and two well-appointed bathrooms (one with a shower, the other with a luxurious bath) ensure privacy and convenience.

Built in 2017, Gerda of Glasgow provides a distinctive base to explore one of Scotland's most vibrant cities. Immerse yourself in Glasgow's rich cultural tapestry - world-class museums, captivating art galleries, diverse restaurants, and electric nightlife are all within easy reach. Culture enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall, both less than a 20-minute walk away.

For nature lovers, Gerda offers the best of both worlds. Enjoy your morning coffee on the rear deck, watching ducks and swans glide by, or venture to the nearby Claypits Nature Reserve. This urban oasis offers wooded walks and serene paths along the Forth and Clyde Canal, just minutes from your floating home.

Feeling adventurous? Ask about our complimentary canoe, perfect for exploring the waterway at your own pace.

Just steps from Gerda, you'll find Ocho Cafe, an ideal spot for brunch or lunch with excellent vegan options. For those seeking relaxation, Ocho Spa offers a range of pampering treatments - perfect for preparing for a night out or unwinding after a day of sightseeing (booking advised).

During your stay, you'll enjoy complete privacy on board Gerda, your fixed accommodation in this prime location.

We're typically available to greet guests upon arrival, but we also provide a secure key safe for flexible check-ins. We're always just a phone call away for any questions or assistance you might need.

For guests looking to extend their Scottish adventure, we offer a fully-equipped, four-berth VW T6 Transporter campervan. Whether you're drawn to the rugged beauty of the Highlands, the winding roads of the North Coast 500, or simply want to explore Scotland's breathtaking scenery at your own pace, our campervan provides the perfect blend of comfort and freedom. Ask us for details and pricing to create your ideal Scottish getaway.

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the accommodation: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Music library
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Safe

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In the city center
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Bed sheets changed on request
  • Recycling
  • Towels (changed on request)
  • Unit size: 829 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Children are very welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit in each accommodation.

Property Registration Number GL00126P

Frequently asked questions

How close is Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility to the airport?

This houseboat is 11 mi (27-min drive) away from the Glasgow International Airport (GLA) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility?

As of Jul 14, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility on Jul 31, 2026 start from $633, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this houseboat.

Does Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility offer free breakfast?

This houseboat does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility?

No, there is no casino at this houseboat, but Grosvenor Casino Glasgow, Riverboat (5-min drive) and Alea Glasgow (6-min drive) are nearby.

What time is check-in at Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility?

Free parking is not available at this houseboat.

Does Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility have a pool?

This houseboat does not have a pool.

Does Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this houseboat.

How close is Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility to downtown Glasgow?

This houseboat is 0.9 mi away from Glasgow.

Floating Retreat: Glasgow's Hidden Gem - Urban Life Meet Canalside Tranquility Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 44 out of 46 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 46 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 46 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 46 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 46 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very welcomed by host. Excellent commjnication before we came and whilst we were there.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Houseboat experience in a quiet location within easy walking distance to the city centre.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved Glasgow and Gerda! I'll admit I was a little apprehensive about living on a boat for 5 days, but I had nothing to worry about. Even with 4 people and our luggage and accumulated souvenirs, we had plenty of space. Gerda is very stable--you can hardly tell you're on the water, except that you can look out the portholes and see the beautiful canal and the seabirds wheeling in the sky. Jonathan was super responsive and easy to communicate with. We had a few questions about the water and waste systems, which were answered speedily. You do need to minimize your time in the shower, but it was no problem, even for our teenagers. Beds are very comfortable; kitchen has a sizable fridge and plenty of quality dishes, drinkware, and cutlery; one of the bathrooms even has a tub! This was a great place for all of us, but would be especially well suited for a family with younger kids--many thoughtful touches made it clear the hosts know how much a houseboat appeals to children. Glasgow has so much to do and see, and a scrappy energy that we found exhilarating. We're already talking about a return visit! Most things we wanted to see were a 15- to 20-min walk away from Gerda (closest subway stop is about 10-15 minutes' walk, so it doesn't save you too much time or steps), but we enjoyed getting exercise and seeing the city as locals would. When we needed a break from walking, it was easy to call a taxi to meet us at the wharf gates. Highly recommend this wonderful, welcoming property.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ruth M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Just the most beautiful start in Glasgow. Super comfy beds, charming boat with everything you may need and clear instructions for everything. Beautiful weather allowed us to hang out on the DIC and walk along the canal. What a pleasure!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erin V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Canal home

We were immediately a peace and comfortable with this home. Wonderful stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

sandra B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location close to amenities

It had everything we needed. The log fire was easy to use and made the boat very cosy. Double bed very comfortable and good quality bedding. Hosts on hand if we had any issues but we did not need them. We most definitely would love to visit again.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pauline S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A cosy stay

Loved our stay on board Gerda, everything that we needed and more! Loved the cosy evenings with the log burner. The location is a quiet haven near enough to the city to walk or use the subway. Jonathan met us on our arrival and was very attentive when we had questions about our stay. There is so much to see and do in Glasgow. Thank you for a great stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

lana g.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gerda is the best!

What an adventure finding a barge in the middle of Glasgow. We had so much fun! My son loved looking for fish and feeding the ducks while my husband and I enjoyed a glass and listened to music. She is a treasure for sure :)
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Memorable Glasgow Stay

Thanks Jonathan, for our lovely stay on the gorgeous Gerda! Quiet, safe, clean and stocked with loads of comforts for adults and teens (WiFi works great, Netflix, games, kitchen). Surprisingly spacious, and the beds were really comfortable, delivering a restful night's sleep after full days exploring Scotland. Minutes from all the neighborhoods, and transportation stations, whether walking or taking a car service. And don't worry about warmth in the winter - the heaters and fireplace work great! A unique experience that we'll always treasure.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heather S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

LOVED our stay on Gerda!

The Gerda houseboat is a truly unique and elegant place to stay in Glasgow. Jonathan and Chris have outfitted it with everything you could need, from Tupperware for leftovers, eco-friendly bath products, to travel guides and extra outlet converters. They even stocked the fridge with a few food essentials and have a whiskey tasting bar! In addition, there are lots of great restaurants within a 5-10 minute walk, a nearby subway stop, and a wonderful coffee shop right at the wharf. We can’t recommend Gerda or its hosts more highly.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Kandy H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Scotland get away

Boat was great. Off street parking was a little bit hard for our big rental van but really enjoyed our stay
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Justin T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vacation on Gerda

Staying on Gerda was a lot of fun for a week! Had a very livable living room and sleeping quarters and full kitchen! The owners are very attentive, hospitable and wonderful people. The neighborhood is very quiet and allowed us to sleep in every day we were there. A little walk to the center of town (15-20 minutes) but very close to a couple great coffee shops, Ocho and C7, which we enjoyed during our stay.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

corrie c.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous stay in Glasgow

Unique, comfortable, quiet in a part of town that day as very easy to get anywhere after a short walk to the nearby subway stop. Would happily stay again
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bridget F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Get thee to gorgeous Gerda!

Finding this unique gem was the highlight of our trip! In a fantastic location, the boat is beautifully restored and very comfortable - especially important for my older parents. The location was fantastic and the owners were incredibly kind and helpful, even bringing over a bottle of wine to toast our celebration! This was an unmatched experience!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Ben G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy

Loved our Floating Cabin in Glasgow

The houseboat was so comfortable and nice for us during our stay. The wood burning fireplace was a huge help with the cold night and was a great nice end to each of our travel days. the access to the boat was a little difficult with the security barriers to the wharf but once we got used to it was ok.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Glasgow escape

Brillant. Narrow boat , Claire the host was very helpful and nice . Loved it . Will def go back . Not far to walk into town either
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

DAVID B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unique

This was a unique place to stay. It was near everyplace we wanted to visit while staying. The "Gerda" was very nice, we have never stayed on anything like her before. It was our last stay before heading home to Michigan. What a way to end our vacation! Claire was great! Thank you!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ian B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gerda barge in Glasgow

Beautiful Dutch barge on Glasgow canal. Everything we needed for a great stay. Great hosts who made sure we were looked after. Highly recommended!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicola R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic stay

We had a fantastic stay. Ideal location and very spacious property which housed everything we needed. Highly recommend .
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Khushroo B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exceptional

Staying on a houseboat that was super spacious, kitted out really well to a high standard, super comfortable double bed, within walking distance from Glasgow city center, and really well priced; can't ask for any more Really friendly hosts Claire and Michael, living across the road in one of the flats and there for help if needed We even pulled off a short trip up and down the canal to pump out the sewage Loved it and highly recommended Thank you Claire and Michael
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

CHRIS R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing and very relaxing

Amazing
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Melanie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy and unique houseboat experience

Great base for exploring Glasgow on foot
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Barge

Such a lovely barge with everything you needed and more. We were celebrating a birthday and visiting family in glasgow couldnt ask for a nicer place. Loved our stay and will definately return. THANK YOU CLAIRE
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Yvonne S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Dream come True

Booked as surprise as I always dreamed of waking up on a canal boat on my 50th birthday, and was every bit as magical as I imagined. Ger-da was our floating home from home, a wee hidden gem in Glasgow, such peace and tranquility so close to the centre of my favourite city. Thanks to Michael and Claire the hosts for their help and support to make a dream come true.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Antonio T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thank you Gerda...you were great!

Never stopped on a houseboat before and we loved it.It's really nice and relaxing being by/on the water and the weather was great too!The boat is roomy and is kitted out with everything you need for your stay.Communication with the hosts was very good and made us feel welcomed on their boat.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2021