The Holiday, a cherished Christmas movie, is a timeless favorite that many enjoy revisiting every festive season. Released in 2006, the film tells the story of two women who decide to swap homes for a two-week winter getaway, providing them with a chance to mend their broken hearts and discover new romances.
One of the main characters, Iris, portrayed by Kate Winslet, escapes her life in England to experience the luxury of a California home. On the other hand, Cameron Diaz’s character trades the glitz of Hollywood for a serene British cottage. While fans might know that ‘Rosehill Cottage’ was specially constructed for the movie and does not exist in reality, the charming countryside backdrop depicted in the film is still a delightful spot to visit, especially around Christmas.
For enthusiasts of the movie, a visit to the pub where Cameron Diaz’s character has a memorable date with Jude Law’s character, Graham, is a must. This pub is situated in Shere, a picturesque village located in Surrey, between Guildford and Dorking. Known for its quaint setting with a river filled with ducks and a vintage ambiance, Shere has been a popular choice for filmmakers, with scenes from Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason also being filmed there.
The historic White Horse pub, a 15th-century Grade II-listed establishment tucked away at the corner of Shere Lane, served as one of the filming locations for The Holiday. Here, visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional British dishes, including hearty steak and ale pies and Sunday roasts, all while basking in the cozy atmosphere near crackling fireplaces.
Described by the Chef & Brewer Collection as a pub built in 1475, The White Horse exudes a classic charm with wooden beams and stone fireplaces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests. The menu offers a selection of comforting dishes, from delicious Sunday roasts to perfectly cooked steaks, accompanied by a well-stocked bar featuring local ales and quality wines. The pub is also pet-friendly, welcoming furry companions to join in the cozy experience.
After savoring the delights at The White Horse, tourists can explore other attractions in Shere, such as charming tearooms or the historic St James’ Church, which dates back to the 12th century. The church is famous for its appearance in various films, including scenes from Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason.
According to Surrey Live, during the filming of The Edge of Reason, the church hosted a wedding scene where the characters spill out into the snowy churchyard. Notably, Bridget and Mark Darcy, played by Colin Firth, exit the church through the Lych Gate.
For travelers interested in visiting Shere, the closest railway station is Gomshall, just a short five-minute drive away. Walking from Gomshall to Shere typically takes around 20 minutes, but local buses are also available for convenient transportation in the area.