Film enthusiasts and travellers seeking a quintessential English experience can step directly into the scenes of beloved movies by visiting the picturesque village of Shere in Surrey. This idyllic location served as the backdrop for key moments in the 2006 Christmas film The Holiday and Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason.
A Cinematic Setting in the Heart of Surrey
Nestled midway between Guildford and Dorking, Shere captivates visitors with its duck-filled river and timeless, old-world atmosphere. It is this very charm that has attracted filmmakers, transforming the village into a star in its own right. While the charming Rosehill Cottage from The Holiday was a purpose-built set that doesn't exist in reality, the surrounding countryside and village centre are very much real and accessible to the public.
Fans of the film, which stars Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, and Kate Winslet, will recognise the village's enchanting lanes and historic buildings. The plot follows two women who swap homes over winter, with Diaz's character, Amanda, trading Hollywood for a quiet English cottage life.
Historic Pubs and Ancient Churches
At the corner of Shere Lane stands a central piece of cinematic history: The White Horse pub. This historic, Grade II-listed building dates back to 1475 and is where Cameron Diaz's character has her first real date with Jude Law's charming bookseller, Graham.
The pub, part of the Chef & Brewer Collection, boasts traditional features like solid wooden beams and natural stone fireplaces, creating the quintessential cosy British pub atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy hearty British staples such as steak and ale pies and Sunday roasts next to a warm fireplace. The establishment is also dog-friendly and offers free Wi-Fi.
Beyond the pub, tourists can explore the village's endearing tearooms and the 12th-century St James' Church. This ancient church holds significant screen history, as it is believed to be where Bridget Jones's parents, played by Jim Broadbent and Gemma Jones, renew their wedding vows in The Edge of Reason. According to local reports, the wedding party then spilled out into the snowy churchyard, with Bridget and Mark Darcy, played by Colin Firth, following through the church's Lych Gate.
Planning Your Visit to a Film Lover's Paradise
The Church of St James is itself a historical treasure, mentioned in the Domesday Book. It contains a tiny enclosed cell where a religious recluse, Christine Carpenter, once lived, with her only contact to the outside world being through a small aperture for food.
For those planning a trip, the closest railway station is Gomshall, located just a five-minute drive away. The walk from the station to Shere takes approximately 20 minutes, and local bus services are also available. This makes the village an accessible and perfect day trip for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a piece of British film history and enjoy the charm of the Surrey countryside.
