Is the real English cottage from “The Holiday”? Exploring the Surrey home that inspired the Christmas getaway

The iconic English cottage featured in the romantic comedy The Holiday may look like a quaint countryside getaway, but its real-world counterpart is not located in England. The picturesque house that served as the inspiration for the film's setting can actually be found in California, at 1883 Orlando Road in San Marino. This stunning property, designed by renowned architect Wallace Neff, is a sprawling multi-million dollar estate that offers both luxury and privacy.

The estate boasts seven spacious bedrooms, six-and-a-half bathrooms, and even includes an automatic gate for added security. Fans of the movie will easily recognize some key features of the property. The balcony, which became famous in the scene where Amanda (played by Cameron Diaz) confronts her unfaithful boyfriend before embarking on her house-swap adventure, remains a standout architectural element. The expansive backyard, complete with an in-ground pool, is another notable location, where Arthur (Eli Wallach) can be seen working out in preparation for the gala held in his honor.

While the interiors of the house were filmed on a soundstage at Sony Pictures Studios, the actual exterior has become a beloved landmark for fans of the movie. The property hit the market in May 2018 with an asking price of $11.8 million but was eventually sold for $9.5 million nearly a year later. Despite being a private residence, it has attracted so much attention that its become a must-see for many visitors. Realtor Brent Chang revealed in 2018 that the houses popularity had led to some challenges with curious tourists. "We have to keep the gates closed 24/7," he explained. "If theyre open for even five minutes, people are often found in the front yard snapping selfies with the house. Its that recognizable."

Where to Watch "The Holiday"

If you're in the mood for a holiday romance, you can rent or buy The Holiday on Prime Video to revisit the charm of the house and relive the magic of the film.

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• Is the English cottage from “The Holiday” real? Inside the Surrey home that inspired the Christmas getaway