England is popular for a lot of things to do, and places to visit - Big Ben, fish and chips, iconic red buses, the rainy weather, and the list goes on. It is home to stunning architecture, age-old traditions, and a plethora of famous landmarks. One of the most sought-after destinations in England is Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its architectural sophistication. It serves as a prehistoric monument that dates back to the late Neolithic period. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site that you should definitely visit is the Lake District, a mountainous region in Northwest England and one of the UK’s most popular national parks. Here, you get to fall in love with nature even more. For stays close to nature, we have curated a list of accommodations that offer stunning views and unique settings. Read on for the top houseboat rentals in England, UK.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on March 02, 2024.
1. Scorpio Little Venice, Greater London (from USD 234)
Enjoy peaceful life on the water by booking this delightful 50-foot (15.24-meter) boat. This traditionally crafted houseboat along with a kayak guarantees an exceptional and memorable experience. The property features an HDTV equipped with Amazon Prime and Netflix, providing an ideal setting to unwind with your preferred shows following a day spent on the water. Gamers can use the PS4 game console to keep themselves entertained.
As the evenings turn chilly, one can gather around the indoor wood-burning fireplace and indulge in its warmth. Stay seamlessly connected to WiFi while on board and make use of the designated workspace, ideal for those on business trips or anyone who desires to remain productive.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
amazing super clean amazing cosy fire and an amazing comfortable stayRead more reviewsHost:
from the day we booked they were responsive and extremely helpfulwe had an amazing stay and the best host to deal withchris and katrina were outstanding hosts and we would highly recommend staying with them
2. Ray, Binfield (from USD 240)
If you want a houseboat to rent in the Isle of Wight, this property offers a distinctive vacation experience with central heating that ensures you stay warm and cozy even on chilly nights. The houseboat has a TV, allowing guests to unwind. Guests can stay connected online with WiFi, for work or for recreation.
The deck outside offers ample space and an ideal location for enjoying meals in the open air. With a boat slip at your disposal, you can conveniently access the water and enjoy the surroundings at your own pace. The houseboat offers an opportunity for extended stays, allowing guests to engage with the local culture and lifestyle fully.
3. Luxurious eco-friendly boathouse by the river, Bursledon (from USD 252)
Set in Cabin Boatyard, this accommodation is located on the scenic Hamble River. By the patio, you can watch the slow descent of the sun as it paints the horizon hues of red and orange. The houseboat is made from recycled materials, making it an environment-friendly rental.
Perfect for your holidays in the UK, this houseboat comes with a living room that opens to the patio, a full kitchen, a bedroom, a bathroom, and a dining area. The boatyard is lined with the finest fishing shops and premier pubs and restaurants.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
my favourite spot is definitely the aft deck with a cozy setting overlooking the marinawe look forward to coming back with our children as the bunk beds looks great fun for themCleanliness:
spotlessly clean with everything and more includedluxury feel comfy beds spotlessly clean what more could you wantwow wow wow loved every second clean tidy and just amazingit was spotless inside with lovely toucheslovely place to stay very clean and comfortableHost:
lovely stay and a great hostteresa is a great hostthe host has equipped it extremely thoughtfully and wellteresa is a great host and clearly cares for her guests experienceteresa is an excellent hostRead more reviewsLocation:
lovely location comfy bedsin a good location with nice pubs / steakhouse nearbygreat location and nice to be surrounded by watergreat location with lots to explore nearbysecure free parking and great location for restaurants/pubs and river walks
4. Far Boathouse, Watermillock (from USD 445)
If you are looking for a romantic place, then Far Boathouse is for you. Watch the sun blend into a painted orange sky in the morning. This tranquil retreat is situated on the edge of Ullswater, the second-largest lake in the Lake District. It is a haven for water sports and bird-watching enthusiasts. Unwind by the patio and revel in the calmness of the lake.
The rental comes with a bedroom, a fully stocked kitchen, an expansive living room, and a dining area for four. The en-suite bathroom features marbled tiles and toiletries so you wouldn’t have to bring your own. There is an indoor fireplace that adds a touch of romance to the place.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
its tasteful furnishings and large comfortable sofa overlooking the deck and the lake created a relaxing ambiancethis cozy comfortable and idyllic setting was perfect for what i was looking forRead more reviewsHost:
incredible place great 2 night stay for us and jayne was a great host
5. Cottage on the River, Ulting (from USD 180)
If you want to rent a houseboat to live in the UK, this elegant boathouse nestled among the serenity of the lake and a cloud of willows offers the getaway you have been dreaming of. Drink your morning coffee by the bow and watch ducks swimming playfully.
The rental comes with a full kitchen, a spacious living area, two bedrooms, and a private bathroom. The houseboat provides you with a variety of board games for your entertainment. A high-speed internet connection is also available, so you can post your pictures in real-time.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
roomy comfortable and well equipped riverboat in a quiet and peaceful locationHost:
the hosts have done a great job in making their boat a great place to staya delightful place everything spot on hosts very welcoming and helpfulgreat host great place to stay with perfect location to fish kayak and walkdiane was super-helpful fielding our stupid questions quickly and with good humourdiane and tim are amazing hosts that provide everything you could ask for and moreRead more reviewsLocation:
plenty of logs for the gorgeous fire and central heating toowonderful couple of nights away in a perfect locationthis is a beautiful traditional narrow boat moored in a private quiet locationgreat location well thought out space clean and organised with great instructions on the boats facilitieswhat a brilliant and unique place to stay and a real treat
6. Rena Haus, Wootton Bridge (from USD 233)
A proper tranquil vacation is all you need to clear your head off of things. Rena Haus offers more than just that. Set in Wootton Creek, this two-bedroom houseboat can sleep up to four guests. It is complete with a living room, an open-plan kitchen, and an adjoining balcony. Here, guests can sip their morning coffee and admire the morning breeze. The rental offers a gorgeous spot for fishing and bird-watching.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
you do not have any fans and cannot leave windows open at night as you get eaten aliveheaven on earth stylish and comfortable accommodation with a view to die for can’t wait to returnthe accommodation was well presented comfortable and looked afterCleanliness:
everything was clean and fresh on arrival with everything you would need to handgreat in every respect - setting tasteful decoration considerate touches and very cleanamazing place to unwind clean comfortable easily accessible very responsive host we will definitely be going backHost:
david is a great hostthank you david for being a great host xcommunications helpful pre and during our staffdavid was a perfect host with lots of fantastic recommendationsreally lovely stay and david was a fantastic hostRead more reviewsLocation:
pros…the location is amazingsuch an amazing place stylish comfortable perfect locationgreat unique place to stay right at the waters edgerena haus is in a beautiful relaxing locationthe location was perfect so serene
7. Quirky houseboat with an honesty bar, Manchester (from USD 124)
A gorgeous view of the waters would not be complete without a glass of wine or champagne in hand. This pet-friendly retreat offers a trip that will detach you from the outside world. It boasts an honesty bar where you can make delicious cocktails. The stunning wood interior gives off an ambiance of intimacy and luxury.
The boat is fitted with a unique geometric window where natural light streams off. This window is perfect for stargazing at night. The home is equipped with a living room area, a bedroom area, and a private tiled bathroom. It is situated near the Museum of Science Industry, The Crystal Maze, and Deansgate.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
sara provides all the comforts of home- tea and coffee and breakfast goodsthe bed is super comfyCleanliness:
gorgeous boat clean and stylishlovely and clean with a great shower and very comfortable bedHost:
host welcoming and attentivesara is a delightful hostsara is an amazing hostsara is a great host and super quick at replying to questionssara (the host) was super responsiveRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is stunningthe location was great for walking to restaurants and bars in spinningfieldsan easy walk from railway/metrolinkreally well equipped and in a great location to explore manchesteryou are in walking distance to multiple museums shops and fabulous restaurants
8. Enstone, West Sussex (from USD 109)
This unique space is ideal for romantic getaways, group get-togethers, or family holidays. The boat is moored on the River Adur, a great destination for sailing, yachting, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, and many more.
Named Enstone, this converted motor torpedo boat is fitted with a living room, a kitchenette, a work desk, a spacious bedroom, and a private bathroom. Grab a glass of red wine and soak in their hot tub while you read a book. Stroll along the nearest beach and achieve the perfect tan. The area is popular for tourists who are into windsurfing, paddle boarding, and the likes.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it's cozy quiet and filled with natural lightcomfortable and cosy in a unique setting with amazing viewsCleanliness:
spotlessly clean and the bed was 1 of the comfiest beds i've ever slept ingreat stay at heather's very cosy house boat airbnb it's clean and surprisingly spaciousit was clean and had everything necessary for a comfortable stayamazing place to stay the boat was so clean and tidya very unique stay on the former ww2 boat very clean with everything you will needHost:
the boat is excellent and heather is a great hostheather the host was lovely and made us feel very welcomeheather is a great host so welcoming and friendlythe boat was perfect for our honeymoon of quirky places and heather was a great hostvery friendly and helpful host would recommend to anyoneRead more reviewsLocation:
location excellentgreat location the beach and town both just a 5 minute walka beautiful unique place to stay and everything you need really close byheather was a great host and the location for the beach town and train station are super convenientgreat area into the blue seafood restaurant is a 2 minute walk and was phenomenal
9. Chic narrowboat on the canal, Oxford
Moored on the Oxford Canal, this gorgeous narrowboat features a modern interior with luxurious furnishings. It is equipped with a full kitchen where you can cook fresh catch straight out of the water. It also has a living room area, a modular dining area, a log burner, and a bedroom. This is perfect for solo traveling or for traveling parties of up to three.
Oxford , Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
994 meters (0.7 ft) from Oxford University Museum of Natural HistorySuperhostAccommodates: 3
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the bed/sofa was extremely comfortableif you need your wifi cafes with free wifi connectivity are close bythe sofa bed opens up and provides a good night's sleepquiet and comfortable sleepingthe bathroom was great for a boat fully functionalCleanliness:
clean cosy and very well equippedinside was clean and comfortablethe cabin is clean and the beds are comfortable enoughit was incredibly clean and the whole place was so well thought outclean tidy and well put together with plenty of room to live inHost:
host was available and courteousrichard was a great hosthosts were quick to respond and very helpfulrichard was a great host very quick to get back to us throughout our staythe host was very helpful in providing accurate directions and making sure we had arrived safelyRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is idealthe location is fantasticthe location is amazingthe location was perfect and so close to centrereally handy location great fun
10. Bamboo, Lancashire
Set in the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, this modern yet luxurious getaway is perfect for couples or solo travelers. The houseboat offers a romantic atmosphere to honeymooners. Watch the sunrise by the stern deck while drinking hot cups of coffee.
The rental features a double bedroom, a private bathroom, a well-equipped kitchen, a dining area, and a living room. A welcome pack of essentials are offered upon arrival. The area is the ideal base for people exploring Yorkshire Dales and the Forest of Bowland.
Lancashire, England, United Kingdom
247.44 km (153.8 mi) from Oxford University Museum of Natural HistorySuperhostAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
enjoyed breakfasts at the esse factory and lunch at the anchorit really is classy and i slept extremely well on a most comfortable mattressCleanliness:
peaceful spotless and to a high standardbamboo was very clean with a very comfortable bedimmaculately clean and sticking to distancing and hygiene rulesvery clean and cosy boat amid some lovely scenerythe boat is clean and bed is comfortableHost:
lovely hosts who were easy to communicate witheveryone is so friendly that we metthe marina is a friendly peaceful placeeveryone passing on the canal was friendly and acknowledged ushad an amazing weekend on bamboo host's we're brilliant and nothing was to muchRead more reviewsLocation:
really unique experience and the location was very picturesquegreat location and very friendly neighboursa beautiful narrowboat in a perfect locationthe marina it is situated on was a perfect locationanchor pub 15 minutes walk away great pub for food and drinks
11. Houseboat Till, York
Set n the historic city of York, this floating home is located near the best shops, restaurants, and bars. It is adorned with hardwood and antique pieces, giving the place a luxurious touch to it. The rental includes three bedrooms, a backyard, a patio, and a private bathroom.
You can stay in and catch up on our favorite shows with their smart TV. In York, spoil yourself on a little retail therapy in one of the shops at Bishopthorpe Road. For the finest drinks, pass by the Slip Inn Pub where you can find the best ale in the city.
York, England, United Kingdom
244.28 km (151.8 mi) from Oxford University Museum of Natural HistoryAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
our group of 5 adults were more than comfortable in this homeCleanliness:
the cleanliness is excellentvery clean as wellimmaculately clean beautifully remodeledspotlessly clean had absolutely everything you would needimmaculately clean and way more space than you would expectHost:
gorgeous boat and great hostsken is a brilliant host and answered any queries promptlyken was a great host and met us to check-in and show us around the placeken was lovely to meet and very helpfulbridget was a fabulous hostRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is perfectit location close to the centre of york was ideal for our weekend breakthe location is superb and felt tranquil despite being so central to yorklovely houseboat within walking distance from the city centrethe location was perfect so it was quiet but close enough to stroll into town
Experience England through its waters
England is probably on everyone’s travel bucket list. Experience the country through its waters for a unique vacation. These houseboat rentals are sure to provide a one-of-a-kind adventure. If you want a serene getaway, many countryside hotels are also available.
Frequently asked questions about the houseboat rentals in England, UK
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to