This is the hidden gem with gondola rides and a historic house that feels like Venice

This hidden gem in Coventry is so underrated that even many locals don’t know about it, and you can explore it on a gondola-style ride.

With summer here, lots of people are planning holidays and fun outdoor days out. Going abroad can be amazing, but it’s also pricey.

Luckily, the UK has loads of great staycation spots that feel special. One incredible place in Coventry is being compared to Venice, with its pretty waters, gondolas, and stunning views.

Photo © David Stowell (cc-by-sa/2.0)

Coombe Abbey is a 12th-century abbey that is now a four-star hotel set in 500 acres of beautiful parkland.

It’s only a 15-minute drive from Coventry city centre and is packed with history and charm. If staying at the hotel is too expensive, you can still enjoy the grounds in a magical way for just £15 per person.

The location went viral after content creator Katy Victoria shared a video of her gondola-style ride.

She booked a £40 punting experience for two, which even included a glass of prosecco, along Coombe Pool at Coombe Abbey. Katy called it “Coventry’s hidden gem” and “the most romantic” experience.

Katy and her partner, who are from Coventry, couldn’t believe they’d never heard of it before. She wrote: “We felt like we were in a movie! I honestly think more people need to know about this – it’s right on our doorstep and we had no idea until a friend mentioned it.”

Photo © Tim (cc-by-sa/2.0)

The Abbey Punting Experience takes you on a 35-minute ride along the moat around Coombe Abbey. Each boat can hold up to six people. Children can ride for free, while adults pay from £30 for two people.

Abbey Punts explains: “It’s the perfect way to take in the park’s wildlife, learn about Coombe’s fascinating history, and see the Medieval Abbey from the moat to the Gate House.” Guests can even wear traditional punting hats if they like.

Katy added: “It’s ideal for a proposal, a date night, or just something fun after a day in the park. You don’t always need to book – just head to the hotel reception and follow the Abbey Punts sign. Or you can message them on WhatsApp to make sure you get a sunset slot like I did.”

She also said: “We didn’t know what to expect, but it turned out to be one of the most unique experiences we’ve ever had. We’ll definitely be going back.”

This stunning Coventry spot proves you don’t need to go abroad for a magical day out – sometimes the best hidden gems are right on your doorstep.

Remember - LeaveNoTrace!

As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!

Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.

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