A Scottish stately home has been named one of the most “iconic” Christmas film locations. As we near the end of December, people across Scotland and beyond will be enjoying festive films.
From classics to new releases, nothing can put you in the Christmas spirit quite like a cheesy movie. While watching certain films, you might recognise particular locations in Scotland.
One of these is Hopetoun House in South Queensferry, which experts at Online-Bedrooms.co.uk recently crowned among the best Christmas movie locations in the world. The stately home is featured in the Netflix romantic comedies The Princess Switch: Switched Again and The Princess Switch 3: Romancing the Star, both starring Vanessa Hudgens.
In the films, it is used as the fictional Montenaro Castle. Many scenes in the two movies were shot in the opulently decorated interiors of the manor, which dates back to 1699. The ancestral home of the Hope family for more than 300 years, Hopetoun House has also featured in the popular historical series Outlander and ITV drama Belgravia.
Unfortunately, Hopetoun House and its grounds are currently closed to the public. They are set to reopen in 2025. While you can’t spend a night in Hopetoun House itself, there is holiday accommodation on the Estate next to Deer Park. Comprising a traditional game keepers cottage, the property includes three bedrooms and is let on a bed and breakfast basis.
The holiday accommodation is managed by Mr and Mrs James Gourlay, a local family who have lived on the Estate for many years. It offers the perfect opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the local area.
Elsewhere, other destinations named among the the most “iconic” Christmas movie locations you can stay in are the Plaza Hotel in New York and the Hôtel de Glace in Canada. The former was seen in Home Alone 2: Lost In New York, while Hôtel de Glace featured in A Royal Christmas Crush.
Cat Wiltshire from Online-Bedrooms.co.uk commented: “With Christmas on the way, many of us love to get cosy with a heartwarming Christmas movie but what better way to enhance that experience than by visiting the actual locations where these beloved movies were filmed? Our suggested destinations not only allow travellers to explore festive landscapes and iconic backdrops, but they also offer opportunities to stay overnight for the ultimate experience.
“Fans can get lost in New York, Kevin McCallister-style, by staying at the famous Plaza Hotel or head for a wholesome getaway in the English countryside just like Amanda in The Holiday. Staying in these magical locations not only brings the movies to life but also allows you to create lasting holiday memories with your loved ones.”
More information can be found on the Hopetoun House website.
Six iconic Christmas movie locations you can stay in
- Home Alone 2 — Plaza Hotel in New York, United States
- Chalet Girl — St. Anton am Arlberg ski resort, Austria
- Princess Switch 2 and 3 — Hopetoun House, Scotland
- The Holiday — Shere village in Surrey, England
- A Royal Christmas Crush — Hôtel de Glace, Canada
- How Grinch Stole Christmas — Zermatt, Switzerland
Don’t miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond – sign up to the Scotland Now newsletter here.