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The Holiday movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was The Holiday filmed?

2006

City Locations

Surrey, Oxfordshire (UK), California (USA)

Location Types

House, Cottage, Storefront, Mansion

Location Styles

Gothic/Victorian, Georgian/Southern, Rustic, Mid-century Modern, Contemporary Modern

About The Holiday

The Holiday is a captivating romantic comedy that graced the silver screen in 2006, skillfully helmed by the talented Nancy Meyers. Known for her knack for crafting compelling stories with strong female characters, Meyers does not disappoint with this film. The movie boasts a star-studded cast featuring Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, and Jack Black.

The plot of The Holiday is centered around two women, Amanda (Cameron Diaz), an L.A. native, and Iris (Kate Winslet), from Surrey, England. Having experienced their share of romantic disappointments, both women meet online on a home exchange website and decide to swap houses for the Christmas holidays. The cultural shock of their new environments is only a minor hiccup compared to the romantic entanglements that follow. Iris meets and befriends an upbeat everyman (Jack Black), while Amanda becomes entwined with a dashing Brit (Jude Law). With the home switch scheduled for less than two weeks, both women face decisions about their newfound relationships.

Despite its predictable plot, as noted by critics, The Holiday was a commercial success, grossing over $205 million worldwide against a budget of $85 million. The film received mixed reviews, but the cast's visual design and performances were highly praised. Although it won no significant awards, the movie's commercial success and enduring popularity highlight its impact and appeal.

The Holiday Locations

The Holiday is a visually charming film renowned for showcasing picturesque locations that captivate the audience. The backdrop of Southern California and the quaint English countryside in Surrey, England, provide a stunning contrast and play a significant role in setting the mood and tone of the movie.

The film was primarily shot in Southern California and the villages of Shere and Godalming in Surrey. Iris (Kate Winslet) swaps her idyllic English cottage with Amanda's (Cameron Diaz) luxurious 10,000 square foot home in San Marino estate, Southern California. The striking difference between the two homes and their surroundings beautifully encapsulates the cultural shock both characters experience.

Unfortunately, the charming Rosehill Cottage that Amanda stays in is not a real place. It was an exterior built for the film on a soundstage, inspired by the authentic Honeysuckle Cottage in Holmbury St Mary, Surrey. However, the beautiful country estate in Chipping Norton, visited by Amanda and Graham (Jude Law), known as Cornwell Manor, is an actual location.

In addition to these locations, the village of Godalming was used for exterior shots depicting the picturesque English countryside. This charming market town, home to around 20,000 residents, is where Amanda shops for food for her cozy cottage.

A trip to the production locations of The Holiday would undoubtedly be worthwhile for film fans. While some places like Rosehill Cottage are merely movie magic, others like the San Marino estate in Southern California or the town of Godalming offer a tangible connection to the film. With their unique charm and beauty, these locations provide a delightful exploration opportunity beyond their cinematic significance.

Iris gets home after the Christmas party scene in The Holiday

South Bank, London, UK

Iris (Kate Winslet) is employed as a wedding columnist for The Daily Telegraph in London. She holds deep affection for her colleague, Jasper Bloom (Rufus Sewell). Nevertheless, her world falls apart during an office Christmas party upon discovering that Jasper is engaged to another colleague.

Following this revelation, we see Iris heading home, heartbroken and devastated. This emotional journey is captured against the backdrop of the South Bank in London, a location that adds depth and character to the scene.

South Bank is a vibrant entertainment and commercial district in central London. It lies adjacent to the River Thames, offering picturesque views of the City of Westminster. Known for its cultural and artistic venues, trendy restaurants, and popular attractions, South Bank is one of the city's most lively and scenic areas. This stretch of the Thames River, where Iris walks home, encapsulates her loneliness amidst the bustling city life, making it one of the memorable scenes in the film.

Getting to South Bank is relatively easy as it is well-connected by public transport. You can get there via the Underground, with Waterloo, Embankment, and Westminster being the closest stations. Alternatively, numerous bus routes serve the area, and river services stop at Festival Pier and Bankside Pier.

Amanda's disappointment at Iris's house scene in The Holiday

Honeysuckle Cottage, Holmbury Hill Rd, Holmbury St Mary, Dorking, UK

There's a scene that highlights the stark contrast between the fast-paced lifestyle of Los Angeles and the slower, quieter pace of life in Surrey, England. Amanda (Cameron Diaz) swaps her luxurious LA home for Iris's quaint English cottage, expecting a peaceful retreat. However, she soon grows restless with the tranquil surroundings and decides to book a flight back home.

But the night before her departure, there's an unexpected knock on the door. It's Iris's brother Graham (Jude Law). He assumes Iris (Kate Winslet) is home and asks to spend the night, admitting he's had a few drinks at the pub and doesn't want to drive. Amanda lets him in despite being strangers, leading to an unexpectedly intimate encounter between them.

This scene was filmed on a set inspired by Honeysuckle Cottage, located in Holmbury St Mary, near Dorking in Surrey. The charming 'chocolate box' house you see in the film, complete with its rustic interiors and picturesque exterior, is actually a film set. But the real-life Honeysuckle Cottage, which inspired Iris's home, can provide a similar experience.

If you're eager to immerse yourself in the idyllic British countryside setting seen in the movie, this might be your chance. To get to Holmbury St Mary, you can take a train from London to Dorking, which usually takes an hour. From Dorking, it's only a short taxi ride to the village.

Amanda shops in a village market scene in The Holiday

The Barber Iskender, 10 Church St, Godalming, UK

The Holiday is filled with memorable scenes, one of which unfolds in a quaint village market. Amanda (Cameron Diaz) arrives in town and decides to go shopping. Fans of the film might recall the scene where Amanda attempts to drive through the snow to reach the store.

This scene was filmed in Godalming, a historic market town about eight miles from Shere. The exterior of the village market was a candle shop at the time of filming. According to director Nancy Meyers, a candle shop was chosen because the market in the area reminded her more of a 7-Eleven rather than the traditional English village market she envisioned for the scene.

The candle shop, located at 10 Church St in Godalming, has since been converted into The Barber Iskender, a barber shop. While the storefront may no longer look the same, the charming atmosphere of Godalming remains. As the administrative center of the Borough of Waverley, Godalming offers a blend of medieval charm and modern amenities, making it a delightful location for residents and visitors alike.

To get to Godalming, you can take a train from London Waterloo station. The journey typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Once you arrive, you can explore the town on foot or by local bus services.

Iris meets Miles at Amanda's house scene in The Holiday

1883 Orlando Rd, San Marino, CA, USA

One of the most notable scenes is when Iris, played by Kate Winslet, gets to experience the luxury of Amanda's Los Angeles home. After swapping her quaint English cottage for the holidays, Iris is astounded by the grandeur of Amanda's 10,000-square-foot residence in Southern California's San Marino estate. The scene becomes even more captivating when Iris encounters Ethan's (Edward Burns) friend, Miles (Jack Black), who visits Amanda's house accompanied by his girlfriend, Maggie (Shannyn Sossamon). This moment sets the stage for developing Iris and Miles' relationship, which evolves as the film unfolds.

The filming location for Amanda's house was the San Marino estate at 1883 Orlando Rd. This luxurious property was sold in early 2018 for $11.8 million (£8.7 million). While the exterior shots were taken at the actual location, the interior scenes were filmed at a Sony Studio. The scene is beautifully crafted, with Iris exploring the expansive property, taking in the lavish interiors and amenities. The house, built in 1928 by architect Wallace Neff, is a stunning representation of classic Southern Californian architecture.

Getting to this location is straightforward in the Los Angeles area. San Marino is a residential city located in Los Angeles County, California. It's about 12 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles. You can reach it by car or public transport, with several bus lines serving the area. However, respect for the owners' privacy is paramount as a private residence.

Iris escorts Arthur to his house scene in The Holiday

163 S Rockingham Ave, Los Angeles, CA, USA

A touching friendship blossoms between Iris (Kate Winslet) and Arthur Abbott (Eli Wallach). In one notable scene, Iris comes across Arthur, a scriptwriter from Hollywood's Golden Age, standing lost in a corner. She escorts him home, and they quickly become good friends.

Arthur recognizes that Iris' behavior towards Jasper (Rufus Sewell) doesn't align with her strong personality. He suggests she watch movies featuring strong female characters to develop "gumption." This scene offers an insightful exploration of Iris' character and sets the foundation for her transformation throughout the movie.

The house used as Arthur Abbott's residence in the film is located at 163 S Rockingham Ave in Los Angeles, California. This beautiful English Country-style house was previously owned by American actress and comedienne Phyllis Diller. Built in 1914, it served as a summer home for Senator Lawrence C. Phipps until 1965, when Ms. Diller purchased it. She lived there for 37 years until her death. Following Ms. Diller's passing, the 9,266-square-foot property on 1.25 acres was listed on the market for $12.9 million.

To get there from downtown Los Angeles, one can take the Interstate 10 W route, which typically takes around 30 minutes by car, depending on traffic. It is now privately owned, so respecting the residents' privacy is essential if you decide to visit the location.

Amanda and Graham's date scene in The Holiday

Cornwell Manor, Cornwell, Chipping Norton, UK

Amanda (Cameron Diaz) and Graham (Jude Law) embark on a quintessential romantic date. Their journey takes them through the picturesque English countryside, culminating in a cozy lunch at an old, stately mansion. Fans of the film might recall the charming moment when Amanda and Graham enjoy their time in the restaurant's garden. This scene is brimming with romance, making it one of the most memorable moments in the movie.

This stunning montage was captured at Cornwell Manor, an exquisite Georgian country house in Oxfordshire. With a rich history dating back to the 16th century, Cornwell Manor emanates elegance and charm. Renovated by the esteemed architect Clough Williams-Ellis in 1939, this magnificent estate boasts eight opulent bedrooms, a spacious drawing room, a grand dining room, a serene library, a well-equipped kitchen, and a magnificent ballroom. Surrounded by a peaceful village, Cornwell Manor and its idyllic setting belong to the Honorable Peter Ward and his esteemed family.

To get to Cornwell Manor from London, you can take a train from London Paddington to Kingham, which usually takes around 90 minutes. From Kingham, it's a short taxi ride to the manor. While Cornwell Manor is not typically open to the public, it is available for weddings, exclusive private hire, and events during certain months of the year.

Conclusion

In the captivating romantic comedy The Holiday, filmed across enchanting locations in the United States and the United Kingdom, the settings become integral characters in the story. The idyllic English countryside of Shere, Surrey, presents an exquisite backdrop, offering a quaint, picturesque charm that perfectly encapsulates the cozy, romantic ambiance central to the film.

Crossing the Atlantic, Los Angeles, California, is the bustling, modern counterpart, pulsating with energy and life. From the classic views of Sunset Boulevard to the bustling energy of San Marino's Huntington Library, the American locations exude a vibrant, contemporary allure.

The ethereal romance of The Holiday is not solely within the characters but woven intricately into these stunning filming locations. The contrasting beauty of the UK's serene landscapes and the upbeat energy of the USA's urban settings creates a tapestry of visual splendor, enhancing the narrative's charm.

As the film concludes, the magic of these carefully selected filming locations resonates, underlining how a sense of place can enrich and enliven a story, leaving a lasting imprint on the audience, much like the unforgettable essence of The Holiday.