Introduction: Ottawa’s Best-Kept Riverside Secret
Nestled quietly between Riverside South and Manotick, Gloucester Glen is one of Ottawa’s most serene and underrated communities. Hugging the Rideau River with tree-lined streets, spacious lots, and an unmistakable sense of tranquility, this neighborhood offers a rare blend of country calm and city convenience.
For those craving privacy, nature, and a true escape from the city’s bustle—without giving up access to modern amenities—Gloucester Glen delivers. It’s a small pocket with big appeal for families, retirees, and professionals looking to trade noise for nature.
The Setting: Riverside Living with Urban Access
Gloucester Glen sits just south of Hunt Club Road, right along the Rideau River shoreline, offering scenic views and an abundance of outdoor recreation. Despite its peaceful, rural vibe, it’s only about 20 minutes from downtown Ottawa—a rarity for such a natural retreat.
Residents enjoy the best of both worlds:
Proximity to the airport and major roads, including River Road and Limebank Road
Access to the future Stage 3 LRT extension in nearby Riverside South
Minutes from shopping, dining, and schools in Manotick and Barrhaven
This balance of serenity and accessibility makes Gloucester Glen one of Ottawa’s most livable hidden gems.
A Snapshot of the Community
While many Ottawa neighborhoods are defined by density and development, Gloucester Glen is characterized by space and stillness. With mature trees, generous lots, and custom-built homes, it’s more like a riverside retreat than a suburb.
What makes it special:
Tight-knit community with friendly neighbors
Quiet, low-traffic streets perfect for families
Abundant birdlife and natural surroundings
Direct access to the Rideau River for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding
It’s the kind of neighborhood where evening walks end with sunsets over the river—and where nature feels like an extension of your backyard.
Real Estate in Gloucester Glen: Custom and Character Homes
Unlike newer suburbs with cookie-cutter designs, Gloucester Glen offers diverse housing styles—each with its own charm. The community features a mix of custom-built detached homes, bungalows, and larger executive estates, many on half-acre or full-acre lots.
Because of limited turnover, homes in Gloucester Glen sell quickly and hold their value—buyers know this kind of riverside setting is hard to replicate elsewhere in the city.
Lifestyle: Peace, Privacy, and Outdoor Freedom
Gloucester Glen’s lifestyle centers on outdoor enjoyment and community tranquility. Residents love that they can step outside and immediately connect with nature—whether that’s walking the trails, launching a kayak, or simply enjoying coffee on a riverside deck.
Nearby attractions include:
Rideau River Pathway: Ideal for biking, jogging, and scenic strolls
Chapman Mills Conservation Area: Wetlands, boardwalks, and wildlife viewing
Riverside South Recreation Facilities: Fitness centers and sports fields
Manotick Village: Restaurants, boutiques, and historic charm within a 5-minute drive
For families, it’s a community that encourages safe outdoor play, community events, and relaxed evenings under the stars.
Schools and Family Appeal
Families in Gloucester Glen benefit from easy access to strong local schools and educational amenities in nearby neighborhoods.
Top options include:
Riverside South Public School
St. Jerome Catholic School
St. Francis Xavier Catholic High School
Steve MacLean Public School
Combined with its calm environment and large yards, Gloucester Glen is an ideal place to raise children—offering both space and security.
Connectivity and Commuting
Despite its tucked-away setting, Gloucester Glen is strategically located for commuters and frequent travelers.
Downtown Ottawa: ~20–25 minutes via Riverside Drive or Airport Parkway
Ottawa International Airport: Less than 10 minutes away
Barrhaven and Manotick: Quick drives for shopping, dining, and entertainment
Future Stage 3 LRT: Nearby stations in Riverside South will improve access even further
For professionals working downtown or hybrid workers wanting peaceful surroundings, it’s an unbeatable setup.
Community Feel: Small but Close-Knit
With fewer than 200 homes, Gloucester Glen has a true village atmosphere—neighbors know one another, community pride runs deep, and residents often describe it as “Ottawa’s best-kept secret.”
There’s no constant traffic, no commercial sprawl—just peace, privacy, and people who value both.
Why Move to Gloucester Glen in 2025
If you’re searching for a neighborhood that feels worlds away from the city—but is actually right next to it—Gloucester Glen should be on your radar.
Top reasons to call it home:
✅ Riverside views and abundant green space
✅ Large, private lots with custom homes
✅ Close to Manotick, Barrhaven, and LRT access
✅ Safe, quiet, family-friendly environment
✅ Excellent long-term real estate value
It’s a place where life slows down just enough—and where every day feels like a getaway.
Conclusion: Ottawa’s Riverside Refuge Awaits
Gloucester Glen offers something truly rare in Ottawa’s housing landscape: a peaceful riverside retreat that’s still connected to everything. With its natural beauty, generous properties, and strong sense of community, it strikes the perfect balance between city and sanctuary.
For buyers who dream of waking up to birdsong and river breezes—while staying just minutes from urban conveniences—Gloucester Glen isn’t just a hidden gem. It’s the definition of balanced living.
