A Charming Historic Village Just Beyond London Like a Romantic Comedy Setpiece

A Hidden Gem in the Surrey Hills

England's capital city, London, is a beloved destination known for its iconic landmarks, rich history, and vibrant culture. However, just 35 miles away from the bustling metropolis lies a charming village that has captured the hearts of many. This picturesque location, nestled between Guildford and Dorking, is Shere—a tiny two-pub neighborhood that has become a favorite among travelers seeking a romantic escape.

Shere is famous for its quaint atmosphere, thatched-roof cottages, and stunning countryside that looks like it was plucked from a watercolor painting. The village also made a notable appearance in two romantic comedies, adding to its allure. While Gatwick Airport is a 35-minute drive away, day trippers from London might find it more convenient to take an hour-long train from London Waterloo to Dorking and then a taxi or a 25-minute bus ride to Shere. For those looking to stay closer, Guildford offers regular buses to Shere that take just 20 minutes.

A Romantic Escape with a Rich History

Since the early 2000s, when blockbusters began highlighting Shere’s beauty, the village has become quite expensive to stay in compared to nearby towns. However, visitors can still enjoy a quintessential English experience through guesthouses, Airbnb apartments, and pub-B&Bs located in the surrounding Surrey Hills. Summer is typically the best time to visit England due to pleasant weather, though it’s always wise to pack warm clothing and sturdy footwear. Interestingly, Shere attracts even more visitors during Christmastime, when tourists come to enjoy the scent of mulled wine and the sight of snow-covered cottages and hillsides.

The Surrey Hills were designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1958, and Shere exemplifies this designation perfectly. From its fairytale-like main street to Newland’s Corner, which is just 2 miles away, the area offers breathtaking views of rolling hills and emerald green fields. Visitors can explore multiple walking trails that rival those in the Yorkshire Dales or Arrochar, a hidden gem in Scotland. Newland’s Corner features free parking and toilets, making it a convenient spot for hikers. One TripAdvisor reviewer praised the area, saying, "A range of walking routes, from 30 minutes up to 3 hours, so something for everyone. Lovely scenery all around, and a great cafe that does a wide range of hot and cold drinks and food."

Exploring Shere’s Cultural Treasures

Wandering through historic Shere, you may stumble upon St. James’ Church, which showcases impressive Norman architecture from the 12th century. The church also appeared in "Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason" in 2004. Afterward, a visit to the Shere Museum offers insight into the area’s rich history. Just a 25-minute walk from the main street, you’ll find Silent Pool, an eerily tranquil pond where mystery novelist Agatha Christie famously abandoned her car, leading to a massive search that lasted 11 days before she was found miles away.

For a taste of traditional English afternoon tea, head to the Dabbling Duck or Hilly’s Tea Shop, where the wall decor reminds visitors that "A scone must be eaten on the day it is made!" It’s best to follow this advice.

A Real-Life Rom-Com Village

The United Kingdom is home to many romantic film locations, but Shere offers a unique experience where you can truly feel like the main character. The village has appeared in several movies, most notably "Bridget Jones's Diary" and "The Holiday." Although the village in "The Holiday" is fictional, the aesthetic was heavily influenced by Shere, and much of the filming took place there.

Visitors often find themselves pretending to be Cameron Diaz for the day, as fans flock to Shere daily. One local shared with The Sun, "There were lots of tourists in Shere before the film came out and now there are even more." To avoid the crowds, it's advisable to book lunch ahead of time and park as far from the main street as possible, such as at Hurtwood Car Park or in nearby Gomshall.

While Shere is wonderful regardless of whether you’ve seen "The Holiday," you’ll get more enjoyment from your visit if you have. Neighboring Godalming provided many of the film’s sweeping countryside scenes, and Kate Winslet’s iconic cottage is said to be inspired by Honeysuckle Cottage in Holmbury St Mary, about 4 miles southeast of Shere. Cinephiles can also visit The White Horse, which proudly displays a sign indicating where Jude Law sat during filming. The pub’s manager noted, "We get pretty much 20 to 30 people over the weekends... We get loads of requests for Jude Law's seat, with people booking months in advance." Though Jude is no longer there, visiting Shere remains a must for any traveler.