The Holiday: Where was it filmed?

For fans of romantic comedy movies, “The Holiday” offers a delightful tour through some of London’s most charming neighborhoods. Amanda (Cameron Diaz) experiences life in a quaint English cottage in Cotswold, inspired by Honeysuckle Cottage in Holmbury St. Mary, Surrey. But, Iris’s (Kate Winslet) London world showcases some of the city’s most beautiful locations. Let’s explore the real London spots where this beloved holiday film was shot.

Cornhill in the City of London

The Daily Telegraph offices where Iris works as a wedding columnist come to life in Cornhill, in the City of London’s financial district. This is where we see her heartbreaking realization about Jasper’s engagement and her subsequent emotional breakdown in the office bathroom – a scene that had us all reaching for tissues. The exterior shots showcase the area’s stunning mix of Victorian and modern architecture.

The White Horse Pub, Southwark

While the interior pub scenes were filmed on a set, the exterior shots showcase the charming streets of Southwark. This historic London borough offers visitors plenty of authentic British pubs similar to those seen in the film.

Graham’s Publishing House

Graham’s book publisher office, where he charmingly juggles single parenthood and his career, was filmed near St. Paul’s Cathedral. The scene where he explains his “Mr. Napkin Head” persona to Amanda shows off the area’s blend of professional polish and historic charm. Today, this publishing district remains largely unchanged, allowing visitors to walk in Graham’s (and Amanda’s) footsteps.

Getting Around London Like Iris

Watch closely and you’ll see Iris navigating London like a true local – hopping into the city’s famous black cabs and descending into tube stations. In one particularly relatable scene, she rushes through the crowds, late for work, in a very London moment that any visitor or resident can appreciate.

Tips for Movie Fans

Visit during winter to capture that magical holiday atmosphere.
Many of the City locations are quieter on weekends.
Combine your film location tour with visits to nearby attractions.
Book a guided walking tour to learn more about the area’s history.

The charm of “The Holiday” lies not just in its storytelling but in how it captures London’s unique character. From historic pubs to bustling city streets, these locations continue to enchant visitors years after the film’s release.

Remember that while some interior scenes were filmed on sets, the exterior locations offer plenty of photo opportunities and chances to experience the real London that inspired this beloved Christmas classic.