The Winchester Bar Shaun Of The Dead

So, you're into zombies, huh? Or maybe you're just a fan of a good pint and a laugh. Either way, you're in for a treat. Let's chat about this little gem of a pub, the Winchester Bar, straight out of Shaun of the Dead.

First things first, where's it at?

Alright, so it's not exactly in London, but it's close enough for a zombie apocalypse. The real-life pub that doubled as the Winchester in the film is called the Duke of Wellington in Wallington, Surrey. It's a bit of a trek, but think of it as a pilgrimage. You're not just visiting a pub; you're stepping into a piece of cinema history.

Now, what's it like inside?

Well, it's not exactly as you see it in the film. You won't find any zombie carnage or boarded-up windows. But it's still a cozy, old-school British boozer with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The ceiling's low, the walls are covered in memorabilia, and there's a jukebox in the corner. It's like stepping into a time warp, or maybe just a really well-preserved 70s throwback.

And yes, they've embraced their fame. There are Shaun of the Dead posters and photos all over the place. They even have a special on their menu - the 'Shaun's Breakfast' - because let's face it, even in a zombie apocalypse, a man's gotta eat.

So, what's the deal with the zombie scene?

You can't talk about the Winchester without talking about the zombies, right? So, here's the thing: the pub itself isn't exactly a hotspot for the undead. But if you time it right, you might just catch a glimpse of something special. Every year, on the anniversary of the film's release, the pub hosts a zombie night. It's like a zombie prom, if you will. Locals and fans dress up, there's a DJ playing zombie-themed tunes, and the pub serves up zombie-themed cocktails. It's a hoot, I tell ya.

But what about the film itself?

Well, that's where things get a bit tricky. The pub might look familiar, but it's not exactly as it appears in the film. Remember the scene where Shaun and Ed are sitting at the bar, planning their zombie survival strategy? That bit was actually filmed in a studio. But don't let that dampen your spirits. The pub's still a key location in the film, and it's still a blast to visit.

"zombie" in Shaun Of The Dead (2004) stills and screengrabs | SHOT.CAFE

And hey, while you're there, you might as well embrace the full Shaun of the Dead experience. Order a pint of their finest, raise it up, and say, "We're going to the Winchester, we're going to have a pint and wait for all this to blow over." It's not just a line from a film; it's a way of life.

So, should you visit?

Absolutely! Whether you're a die-hard Shaun of the Dead fan, a zombie enthusiast, or just a fan of a good pint, the Winchester Bar is worth the trip. It's more than just a pub; it's a piece of cinema history, a testament to British humor, and a damn fine place to wait out a zombie apocalypse.

Just remember, if you do go, don't forget to tip your hat to the late, great Pete Postlethwaite. He might not have been in the film for long, but his character, the Winchester's landlord, is a legend in his own right. And hey, who knows? Maybe you'll even spot a zombie or two. But probably not. They're not exactly known for their pub-going habits, are they?