PREVIEW

J.R.R. Tolkien fans have the chance to live like hobbits with a unique walking tour spanning 12 acres of enchanting landscape.

Situated in Waikato, New Zealand, Hobbiton served as a filming location for ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ trilogies.

After filming finished, the set opened to the public for guided walking tours, offering a glimpse into the magical world of Middle-earth.

Visitors can enjoy iconic spots seen in the movies, including the world-famous Hobbit Holes, the Mill, and the Green Dragon Inn.

In 1999, with help from the New Zealand army, 39 temporary Hobbit Holes were built for ‘The Lord of The Rings’ trilogy. When guided tours began in 2002, 17 of the facades remained.

Director Sir Peter Jackson returned in 2009 to film ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy, leaving behind a permanent set featuring 44 Hobbit Holes. The Green Dragon Inn, opened its doors in 2012, offering guests a taste of hobbit hospitality.

Tours typically include a short bus ride to the movie set, followed by a 1.5-hour guided walking tour.

Since December 2023, visitors have also had the chance to explore a fully furnished Hobbit Hole on Bagshot Row.

Costing £58.12 ($120 NZD) per adult, the tour also includes a Hobbit tipple in the form of Southfarthing cider, beer or a soft drink – exclusive to Hobbiton and inspired by the Shire.

Sir Peter Jackson and his team found the site during an aerial search across New Zealand for the perfect picturesque landscape.

Before becoming a movie set, the site was a used as a working sheep farm.

Tolkien published ‘The Hobbit’ in 1937, introducing readers to the world of Middle-earth and those who lived there, including hobbits, elves, dwarves, wizards and dragons.

‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy followed between 1954 and 1955, which expanded details of Middle-earth and became a much-loved trilogy in the fantasy genre.