The Magic of Christmas: Iconic UK Film Locations in Holiday Movies
Attractions | Cosy | Pub Accommodation | Staycation | Uk Pubs | Posted 2024.12.13
There is something undeniably magical about Christmas movies, and many of the most beloved holiday films have found their settings in the picturesque towns and cities of the UK. From romantic comedies to family classic, these films transport us to snow-duets streets, cosy cottages and festive cityscapes. Let’s explore the Christmas movies filmed in the UK and the enchanting locations that brought these stories to life.
Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)
Key Locations: Snowy London Streets and Shere, Surrey
Renée Zellweger’s iconic portrayal of Bridget Jones is synonymous with cosy knitwear and festive mishaps. Much of the film is set in London, showcasing landmarks like Tower Bridge and Borough Market dressed in Christmas cheer. The idyllic village of Shere in Surrey also makes a charming appearance, offering a quintessential English countryside vibe perfect for the holidays.
Festive vibes: London’s winter magic sets the scene for Bridget’s romantic adventures, making it a feel-good Christmas staple.
Book a stay in a pub nearby for the ultimate cosy feel.
Photo Credit: shanneong
Surrey stays:
The Drummond at Albury, Albury, Surrey
The White Horse, Dorking, Surrey
London stays:
The Chamberlain, Tower Bridge, London
The Counting House, Bank, London
Get Santa (2014)
Key Locations: Yorkshire, Leeds and London
This heartwarming family comedy tells the story of a father and son who team up to save Christmas after Santa crashes his sleigh. With scenes filmed in Leeds and Yorkshire, as well as the bustling streets of London, Get Santa combines urban excitement with the warmth of small-town festivities.
Festive vibes: From Santa’s whimsical antics to festive street scenes, this film captures the spirit of Christmas with humour and heart.
Photo credit: SteveAllenPhoto
Stay in a pub nearby
The Guy Fawkes Inn, York, North Yorkshire
The Judge’s Lodging, York, North Yorkshire
Dean Court, York, North Yorkshire
The Holiday (2006)
Key Location: Godalming, Surrey
One of the most iconic Christmas rom coms, The Holiday features a charming English countryside backdrop. Iris’s quaint cottage is set in the fictional village of “Surrey”, but much of the filming took place in Godalming and Shere. The cobblestone streets and snow-covered rooftops create the perfect Christmas card setting.
Festive vibes: The romantic charm of a cosy English village makes this film a dreamy holiday favourite.
Book a stay in a pub nearby to get that rom com feel.
Photo Credit: EyeEm Mobile GmbH
The Inn on the Lake, Godalming, Surrey
The Merry Harriers, Hambledon, Surrey
The Running Horses, Mickleham, Surrey
Last Christmas (2019)
Key Location: London
Inspired by George Michael’s classic song, Last Christmas is a love letter to London during the holiday season. The film beautifully captures the city’s festive spirit, featuring iconic locations like Covent Garden, the Southbank and Regent Street’s sparkling Christmas lights.
Festive Vibes: London’s twinkling streets provide a magical backdrop for this poignant romantic comedy.
Book a stay in a pub to relive the Christmas magic.
Yorkshire Grey, Holborn, London
The Clerk and Well, Clerkenwell, London
The Mad Hatter Hotel, Southwark, London
Love Actually (2003)
Key Locations: London and Surrey
Perhaps the ultimate British Christmas film, Love Actually weaves together stories of love and friendship set against the backdrop of a festive London. Iconic scenes include the grand Heathrow Airport finale and the Prime Minister’s charming doorstep in Wandsworth. The film also ventures into Surrey for more intimate, countryside moments.
Festive vibes: The film’s heartfelt stories and London’s iconic landmarks make it a quintessential holiday classic.
Book a stay nearby:
Brewer’s Inn, Wandsworth, London
Spread Eagle, Wandsworth, London
Nativity! (2009)
Key Location: Coventry, West Midlands
This feel-good film, set in Coventry follows the chaos and hilarity of a primary school’s attempt to stage the perfect Nativity play. The film embraces the community spirit and charm of a real UK town during the festive season, making it a relatable and heartwarming Christmas treat.
Festive vibes: a joyful celebration of holiday traditions, school plays and the magic of children’s imagination.
Book a stay in a pub nearby:
Old Mill, Baginton, Warwickshire
The Abbey Field, Kenilworth, Warwickshire
The Bulls Head, Meriden, West Midlands
The Snowman (1982)
Key Location: Brighton and beyond
This timeless animated classic takes viewers on a magical journey across the UK, with its most iconic scene flying over Brighton’s Palace Pier. The film’s dreamy landscapes and snowy vistas evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia, making it a staple of Christmas viewing.
Festive vibes: The ethereal animation and Howard Blake’s hauntingly beautiful “Walking in the Air” make this a cherished piece of British holiday culture.
Book a stay to feel the wonder and nostalgia of a classic Christmas film.
The Maris & Otter, Brighton, East Sussex
Artist Residence, Brighton, East Sussex
The Ginger Pig, Hove, East Sussex
Christmas movies have a way of capturing the magic of the season, and the UK’s stunning locations play a starring role in many beloved classics. Whether it’s the cosy charm of the countryside in The Holiday, the twinkling streets if London in Love Actually or the heartwarming traditions in Nativity! these films invite us to experience the joy of the season in truly enchanting settings.
Why not plan a festive adventure to visit these locations and relive the magic of your favourite Christmas films this holiday season.
Written by Lucille Skinner
Social Media Assistant