A circular walking route in Surrey, reachable by a one-hour train from London, takes hikers through the village of Shere, which has appeared in several films, including the Christmas movie The Holiday. The 11km (6.8 miles) trail, starting from Gomshaw in the Surrey Hills, offers views of ancient woodland, rolling farmland, and a village with 34 historic listed buildings.
Hike route and village highlights
Londoner Zanna van Dijk, who shares day-trip recommendations, detailed the route in a video. She advised catching a one-hour train to Gomshaw, then following a circular path that leads to Shere. The walk includes 250m of elevation, which she described as “not too challenging.”
Shere is known for its timber-framed cottages, a stream, and St James’ Church, a 12th-century building that appeared in The Holiday. The village also has two pubs, including The White Horse, which featured in a scene with actors Cameron Diaz and Jude Law. The pub remains largely unchanged from its on-screen appearance.
Film locations and visitor response
Besides The Holiday, Shere has been used as a filming location for Four Weddings and a Funeral, Bridget Jones, and The Wedding Date. Zanna described the village as a “quintessential storybook English village,” noting that despite its small size, it contains 34 historic listed buildings, giving visitors much to explore.
The walk itself takes hikers through ancient woodland and rolling farmland, with countryside views and bramble bushes along the way. It returns to Gomshaw, where hikers can catch the train back to London.
Public reaction
Viewers responded positively to Zanna’s video. One commenter wrote, “Yep this looks straight out of a movie,” while another said, “One of my favourite places.” A third user commented, “Omg I can’t wait to check it out!!!” The route offers a practical day trip for those seeking a film-inspired walk near London.
