The enchanting charm of holiday films like The Holiday has captivated audiences worldwide, driving fans to the picturesque locations where these romantic tales unfolded. One such spot is the cozy White Horse pub located in Shere, Surrey, featured prominently in the 2006 film. There’s a memorable moment when Jude Law’s character scans the pub until his gaze meets Cameron Diaz's Amanda, igniting romance amid the festive backdrop.
Stepping inside the White Horse, visitors experience the very essence of this cinematic world—complete with roaring fireplaces and low wooden beams. For many, the pilgrimage is to claim the seat where Law's character once sat. "We get pretty much 20 to 30 people over the weekends and then like 5 or 6 during the week. And a lot more around Christmas," says the pub’s general manager, Thomas Gillas. The pub’s appeal has turned it nicknamed ‘The Holiday pub,’ attracting dedicated fans booking months in advance for the chance to sit in the same spot as their favorite actors.
While sipping wine and soaking up the cozy atmosphere, visitors like Mia Celestine, 25, from Portsmouth, express their admiration for the film. "It’s just so cute here," she exclaims, noting the film’s seasonal significance. Meanwhile, her friend Renata DelValle, 25, from Spain, reminisces about her recent first viewing and vows to make it part of her yearly traditions.
Beyond the pub, Shere itself has become something of a sacred ground for fans. They trek through this idyllic village seeking the hill where the fictional cottage supposedly resided. Spoiler alert: the charming dwelling was merely the creation of director Nancy Meyers, made up entirely for cinematic purposes. The actual hill remains unremarkable, but visitors still fantasize about their connections to the film—much to the amusement of locals.
Dean Hart, owner of local business Hilly’s Tea Shop, states, "At Christmas time, it’s like a tidal wave" as the influx of tourists arrives. He admits the business can become overwhelming, with the same questions asked repeatedly. Residents like Hart balance the joy of increased tourism with the realities of busyness. His co-owner, Kate Heysmond-Hart, notes, "Some people in the village don’t enjoy the busyness but we embrace it," highlighting the community's mixed feelings about the visitors flocking to cherish their film connections.
This charm isn’t exclusive to Shere. Other neighboring filming locations celebrated during the holidays include the romantic streets of Notting Hill, where Love Actually’s poignant cue card scene between characters Mark and Juliet took place. St Luke’s Mews is now recognized as the place where love was famously depicted, driving foot traffic and photo ops during the Christmas season.
Similarly, Bridget Jones's Diary showcases the enchanting village of Snowshill, Gloucestershire, inviting fans to walk among honey-colored cottages and rolling hills—exploring the enchanting locations where movie magic unfolded. The film delivers poignant moments, echoed by visitors who feel compelled to whisper their affection for the film’s iconic lines among its picturesque landscapes.
The seasonal showcase doesn’t end there. Holiday hits like Nativity! filmed across Coventry, along with Last Christmas taking over Covent Garden, London, bring the festive allure to various city locales. These places pulsate with life around Christmas, adorned with cheerful decorations and the jovial spirit of the season.
The beloved film The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe may not be strictly holiday-themed, but its snowy landscapes echo Christmas nostalgia. Filming locations across Northern Ireland’s Mourne Mountains brought breathtaking backdrops to the screen, capturing audiences’ hearts even outside the December holiday.
Even The Snowman, though animated, evokes warm, wintry feelings synonymous with Christmas. Its inspiration stems from the breathtaking scenery of South Downs National Park, reminding travelers of the nostalgic beauty captured on film.
For many film tourists visiting the holiday locations, it’s more than just sightseeing; it’s about creating magical experiences intertwined with their favorite cinematic moments. Local resident Emma O’Hea, who rents out her home on Airbnb, explains, "We get lots of nice young American girls staying, hoping to meet Jude Law." Surprisingly, such encounters are less frequent than they hope, but the spirit of adventure and romance remains ever-present.
Whether fans leave with Hollywood glam or merely embrace the festive atmosphere of these locations, one thing is certain: The magic of holiday films continues to create connections, weaving nostalgia and charm through quaint villages and iconic streets, keeping the spirit of the season alive for years to come.
