The United Kingdom has been a charming backdrop for a plethora of Christmas films, providing picturesque settings that add a touch of magic to holiday stories.
In this cinematic tour, we’ll explore the enchanting locations across the UK that have served as the canvas for some of our favourite festive films.
Love Actually (2003): London’s Love Story Unfolds
Richard Curtis’s “Love Actually” is a beloved ensemble film that weaves together multiple love stories during the Christmas season. Set against the backdrop of London, iconic locations such as Heathrow Airport, the Millennium Bridge, and the famous doorstep scene at 10 Downing Street contribute to the film’s festive charm. Fans can take a self-guided tour, retracing the steps of their favourite characters in the heart of the British capital.
Location Highlight: The scenes at the charming Notting Hill bookstore were shot at The Travel Bookshop, a real bookstore in West London.
The Holiday (2006): Cotswolds Countryside Retreat
Nestled in the picturesque Cotswolds, the English countryside becomes a character of its own in Nancy Meyers’s “The Holiday.” The quaint village of Shere in Surrey served as the location for the charming English cottage of Iris (Kate Winslet). Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets and the cozy Rosehill Cottage, immersing themselves in the enchanting atmosphere that captivated audiences around the world.
Location Highlight: The White Horse Pub in Shere, featured in the film, is a popular spot for fans to grab a drink and soak in the film’s ambiance.
Click and Collect (2018): Bedford’s Christmas Quest
In the heart of Bedford, the 2018 film “Click and Collect” took audiences on a comedic Christmas quest starring Stephen Merchant and Asim Chaudhry. The film used locations near Bedford, adding an authentic touch to the festive adventure.
Location Highlight: South Mimms services was used in several scenes.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (2005): Narnian Magic in Northern Ireland
While not strictly a Christmas movie, this adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s classic tale offers a magical winter wonderland. Some of the film’s most enchanting scenes were shot in the Mourne Mountains of Northern Ireland, transforming the landscape into the wintry realm of Narnia. Fans of the fantastical can embark on a journey through Tollymore Forest Park, which served as the entrance to the mystical land.
Location Highlight: Tollymore Forest Park, located at the foothills of the Mourne Mountains, provides a mystical setting reminiscent of Narnia.
The Snowman (1982): Raymond Briggs’s Classic Comes to Life
Raymond Briggs’s beloved picture book “The Snowman” was brought to life in an animated adaptation that has become a Christmas staple. The film beautifully captures the spirit of a snowy winter, and the inspiration for its wintry scenes can be found in the South Downs National Park. The rolling hills and charming villages provide a quintessentially British backdrop for the heartwarming tale.
Location Highlight: The South Downs National Park in East Sussex offers breathtaking landscapes that mirror the timeless charm of “The Snowman.”
British big screen experiences
As we embark on this cinematic tour of Christmas movie settings in the UK, it becomes evident that the diverse landscapes and historic locales of Britain have played a crucial role in bringing festive stories to life. From the bustling streets of London to the quaint villages in the Cotswolds and Bedford, these locations have not only set the stage for beloved holiday films but also invite audiences to step into the enchanting worlds created on screen. Whether it’s the bustling urban streets or the serene countryside, the UK’s cinematic Christmas charms continue to captivate audiences and add a touch of magic to the holiday season, and Ellievision AV are proud to screen British movies at our outdoor cinema & hire events.