While the charming “Rosehill Cottage” featured in the film The Holiday appears to be nestled in the idyllic, snow-dusted countryside of Shere, Surrey, England, the truth is more nuanced. Rosehill Cottage, as depicted in the film, was primarily a purpose-built set constructed on a field near Shere, Surrey. Its enchanting exterior, evoking visions of quintessential English village life, existed only for the duration of filming.
The Illusion of Rosehill: Behind the Movie Magic
The allure of The Holiday lies in its escapist fantasy, and Rosehill Cottage played a pivotal role in creating that magic. The film’s production team, recognizing the difficulty in finding an existing cottage that perfectly matched their vision, opted to build a custom-made set. This allowed them complete control over the cottage’s aesthetic, its placement in the landscape, and the specific details that contributed to its cozy and inviting atmosphere.
However, the interior shots were filmed on a soundstage at Shepperton Studios. This provided the controlled environment necessary for complex camera work, lighting, and sound recording. The interior bears little resemblance to any actual cottage in Surrey. The exterior shots, although a set, were carefully framed to incorporate the natural beauty of the Surrey landscape, making it appear as though the cottage had always been part of the scenery. The village scenes were indeed filmed in Shere and nearby Godalming, Surrey. This lends authenticity to the overall setting and explains why many visitors mistakenly believe Rosehill Cottage itself is located in those villages.
Surrey’s Real Charm: Inspiration and Filming Locations
While Rosehill Cottage itself was a construct, the film drew heavily on the atmosphere and aesthetic of Surrey’s charming villages and countryside. The production team spent considerable time scouting locations in the area, seeking inspiration for the cottage’s design and identifying suitable villages for the outdoor scenes.
The picturesque village of Shere, with its quaint shops, historic church, and traditional pubs, served as the primary location for many of the film’s village scenes. The White Horse pub in Shere, for example, features prominently in the film and remains a popular destination for fans eager to experience a taste of The Holiday. Similarly, the town of Godalming provided additional filming locations, adding to the film’s visual tapestry. Even though Rosehill Cottage wasn’t actually there, these villages embody the same romantic and rustic charm that made the cottage so appealing.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rosehill Cottage
Here are some of the most common questions people have about the cottage from The Holiday, answered definitively:
H3 What happened to Rosehill Cottage after filming?
Following the completion of filming, the Rosehill Cottage set was dismantled. Because it was built specifically for the film and was not intended to be a permanent structure, it was taken down to restore the field to its original condition.
H3 Is it possible to visit the location where Rosehill Cottage was built?
While you can visit the field where the set was constructed, there is no cottage there now. It’s a private field and there is no public access. You can, however, appreciate the surrounding countryside that inspired the film.
H3 Can I stay in a cottage similar to Rosehill Cottage in Surrey?
Yes! Numerous charming cottages are available for rent in Surrey. Although none are exactly like Rosehill Cottage, they offer a similar experience of cozy English countryside living. Websites specializing in cottage rentals are a good place to start your search.
H3 Was the snow in the film real?
While some natural snowfall occurred during filming, much of the snow seen in The Holiday was artificial. This allowed the filmmakers to control the amount and distribution of snow, ensuring a consistent and visually appealing winter wonderland.
H3 What are some other films shot in Surrey?
Surrey is a popular filming location. Other notable films shot in Surrey include Gladiator, Four Weddings and a Funeral, The Italian Job (original), and various Harry Potter films. Its diverse landscapes and proximity to London make it an attractive choice for filmmakers.
H3 Where did Iris work in the film? Was that location real?
In the film, Iris Simpkins (Kate Winslet) works for The Daily Telegraph in London. The exterior shots of her workplace were filmed at Riverwalk House in London.
H3 How much would it cost to buy a cottage like Rosehill Cottage in Surrey?
The price of cottages in Surrey varies greatly depending on size, location, and condition. A cottage with a similar level of charm and features could easily cost £750,000 or more. Property values in Surrey are generally high due to its proximity to London and its desirable rural setting.
H3 Who designed the set for Rosehill Cottage?
The production designer for The Holiday was Jon Hutman. He was responsible for creating the overall look and feel of the film, including the design and construction of Rosehill Cottage.
H3 What are some other things to do in Shere, Surrey?
Aside from visiting the White Horse pub, you can explore the historic St. James Church, enjoy scenic walks in the surrounding countryside, browse the charming local shops, and visit the Shere Museum. The village offers a quintessential English experience.
H3 Is it easy to get to Shere from London?
Yes, Shere is relatively easy to reach from London. You can take a train from London Waterloo to Guildford, and then a bus or taxi to Shere. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
H3 Did the actors enjoy filming in Surrey?
Reports suggest that the actors enjoyed filming in Surrey. The cast and crew appreciated the beauty of the countryside and the welcoming atmosphere of the local villages. Kate Winslet, in particular, spoke fondly of her time spent filming in the area.
H3 Are there any behind-the-scenes documentaries or featurettes about the making of The Holiday?
Yes, bonus features on the DVD and Blu-ray releases of The Holiday often include behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the cast and crew. These features provide insights into the making of the film, including the construction of the Rosehill Cottage set. Checking streaming services for additional content is also worthwhile.
Embracing the Illusion: The Enduring Appeal of “The Holiday”
While the truth about Rosehill Cottage may disappoint some, it shouldn’t diminish the film’s magic. The Holiday is a celebration of escapism, romanticism, and the transformative power of travel. The cottage, whether real or imagined, serves as a symbol of these themes, inviting viewers to dream of a simpler, more idyllic life. The spirit of Surrey’s authentic beauty and the film’s carefully constructed charm combine to create an enduring and beloved holiday classic. The fact that it was just a set doesn’t make the dream any less real. It simply highlights the skill of the production designers in bringing that dream to life on screen. And that dream, that feeling, is what people are really searching for.