‘Beautiful’ private waterfall near Coventry accessed through a secret gate

Waterfalls offer something magical. And if you like them, you’re in luck – there’s a private one near Coventry, which you can reach through a secret gate.

Birmingham’s Edgbaston, 40 minutes from Coventry, is known for its beautiful reservoir, but BirminghamLive reports that there’s a sparkling clean lake nearby that you may never have seen – Edgbaston Pool. It is a private site maintained by Edgbaston Golf Club, so visiting is difficult but possible, although some will have to pay.

The hidden pool is located behind Winterbourne House. You can reach it via a woodland walk from a gate in the attraction’s gardens. Entry costs £8 and will give you access to Edgbaston Pool.

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BirminghamLive’s Kirsty Bosley describes the pool as “gorgeous”, hosting lots of wildlife from swans, loons and other special flora and fauna. There are benches along the water’s edge to enjoy the picturesque views, described as ‘at a distance’, even when Winterbourne is busy.

If you walk down the path before you reach the Golf Club barrier, you’ll hear the waterfall long before you see it, just to the right. However, it is a steep descent, so it is recommended to stay on the path.

Also, technically it’s not a waterfall, but let’s not get too worked up about it, because it looks awesome. Instead, it’s a whirlpool, but the water spilling over the dam adds a charming effect — and, hey, it looks like a waterfall.

The lake is about 17 acres in size, compared to Edgbaston Reservoir’s 58 acres, and you can’t walk around like you can at the latter. However, there is plenty of space to sit and enjoy the quiet.

In addition, some people can visit Edgbaston pool for free. For example, University of Birmingham students do not have to pay to visit Winterbourne House if they have a valid ID and the same is true for university staff.

Lucky for some, right? Well, what’s more, Historic Houses members get in free on “most days” and individual members of the Royal Horticultural Society get in free Monday to Wednesday with a valid card.

For others, entry to Winterbourne is 10.30am to 5pm from March to October and 10.30am to 4pm from November to February. Prices are £8 per adult, £6.90 for over 65s and children.

It is important to note that access to the pool is via a forest walk and a bridge that has steps up. As a result, it will not be suitable for wheelchairs and prams.

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