Nestled in the heart of the Surrey Hills lies a picture-perfect English village that provided the quintessential backdrop for a beloved modern Christmas classic. The 2006 romantic comedy The Holiday, starring Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jack Black, and Jude Law, continues to charm audiences each festive season, and fans can step directly into its charming world by visiting Shere.
The Storybook Setting of a Festive Favourite
The film's plot sees two women, Iris (Kate Winslet) and Amanda (Cameron Diaz), swap homes across the Atlantic to escape romantic woes. While the luxurious Los Angeles villa is a stark contrast, it is the cosy English cottage that captures hearts. Although 'Rosehill Cottage' was a purpose-built set and not a real dwelling, its idyllic surroundings are very much real, filmed in and around the historic village of Shere.
Situated midway between Guildford and Dorking, Shere boasts a timeless appeal with its duck-filled river and centuries-old architecture. This allure hasn't been lost on filmmakers; the village also featured prominently in Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason.
Step Inside a 15th-Century Film Set: The White Horse Pub
At the corner of Shere Lane stands a piece of living history that played a key role in The Holiday. The White Horse pub, a Grade II-listed building dating back to 1475, is where Cameron Diaz's character enjoys her first proper date with Graham, played by Jude Law. Visitors today can soak up the very same atmosphere, characterised by solid wooden beams and natural stone fireplaces.
The pub, part of the Chef & Brewer Collection, offers a menu of hearty British classics. Patrons can tuck into steak and ale pies or a traditional Sunday roast beside a cosy fire. The establishment proudly welcomes dogs and offers free Wi-Fi, making it a perfect stop for tourists exploring the area.
Beyond the Pub: Exploring Shere's Cinematic History
A visit to Shere offers more than just a pint at The White Horse. The village is dotted with charming tearooms and historic sites. Notably, the 12th-century St James' Church is a must-see. It served as the location where Bridget Jones's parents renewed their wedding vows in The Edge of Reason, with the scene spilling out into the churchyard.
The church itself is steeped in history, mentioned in the Domesday Book. It contains a small cell where a religious recluse, Christine Carpenter, once lived in isolation, receiving food through a small aperture.
For those planning a trip, the nearest train station is Gomshall, roughly a five-minute drive or a 20-minute walk from Shere. Local bus services also connect the area.
This Surrey gem proves that the magic of Christmas movies can extend beyond the screen, offering a real-world destination where fans can wander through scenes from their favourite festive films and experience old-world England for themselves.
