The UK has so many great staycation spots that are worth exploring and offer a unique experience - and this spot in Coventry looks like Venice and offers gondola rides
With summer upon us, many are planning holidays and outdoor activities to relish the sunny days. While jetting off abroad has its charms, it can be pricey, and let's not forget the UK is brimming with fantastic staycation destinations that promise unique experiences.
One such gem in Coventry could easily be mistaken for Venice, with its stunning views, serene waters, gondola rides, and more. However, locals have been shocked to learn that they never knew about it. Coombe Abbey, a grand 12th-century abbey turned four-star hotel, sits amidst 500 acres of breathtaking grounds. Just a stone's throw from Coventry city centre, a mere 15-minute drive, this historic site offers an abundance of history and elegance.
Even if staying at the hotel seems a bit steep, visitors can still savour the estate's beauty in a distinctive way for just £15 per person.
A video showcasing the idyllic setting recently took social media by storm after content creator Katy Victoria shared her £40 punting experience for two, which included a refreshing glass of prosecco each, along the tranquil Coombe Abbey river, also known as Coombe Pool. Katy hailed the lake as "Coventry's hidden gem" and described the punting offered by Abbey Punks UK as "the most romantic".
On TikTok, she expressed her delight: "I couldn't stop smiling all night."
Katy and her partner, both locals, were astonished they hadn't come across the experience sooner. She revealed on social media: "We felt like we was in a movie! I honestly feel like more people need to know about this as for us it's right on our door step and we knew nothing about it until a friend shared it on Instagram.
"I cannot express enough how amazing it truly was and I promise you will not be disappointed," she added.
The Abbey Punting Experience is a 35-minute punt on the moat around Coombe Abbey and can accommodate up to six people. Children can ride for free and for adults prices start from £30 for two. The ride is approximately 35 minutes.
"It is the perfect way to encapsulate the wonder of the park's wildlife, the intriguing history of Coombe and the Medieval Abbey, from its historic moat to the Gate House," says Abbey Punts. You can even wear punting hats if you wish.
Katy said: "Whether you want to book a proposal, a date night or just show up after a day at the park he's very flexible with times. The majority of the time a booking isn't required so just go to the reception of the hotel and you will find a sign for Abbey Punts to the right of you. Or you can find his WhatsApp on his website which is what I did because I wanted to make sure we reserved the sunset slot."
Katy summarised: "We honestly didn't know what to expect at first but hands down one of the most unique experiences I've ever had, we're definitely going back."
One shocked individual commented on Katy's video, and said: "Wait what! I'm from Coventry? This is a thing? Since when?". "Hold the phone, I'm from Cov and didn't know about this, since when? ," wrote another. One other commented: "I had no idea you could do this at Coombe! Literally 20 mins from us, definitely on my list now!".
Another individual shared a cherished memory, writing: "We had one of the first weddings he did (it's our anniversary tomorrow) and it was so special for our guests to use in the evening, they loved it!". Another person commented: " Wow we stayed here a few years ago- I want to go back and do this now! ,".
