Hobbiton
North Island New Zealand
Hobbiton, located in Matamata, New Zealand, is a world-famous attraction that has become a must-visit destination for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" book series, as well as fans of the Peter Jackson-directed film adaptations.
Visitors are immediately transported into the world of Middle-earth as they enter the beautifully maintained Hobbiton Movie Set. The site offers a unique experience where visitors can explore the actual film sets that were used in "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" trilogies. The set is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, showcasing the intricate attention to detail that Peter Jackson and his team are known for.
Tour guides lead visitors through the Hobbiton village, providing insider knowledge about the films and pointing out the tiny details that may have gone unnoticed on the big screen. You can see the Hobbit holes, the party tree, the Green Dragon Inn, and even the famous bridge where Gandalf met Frodo. The village is surrounded by rolling hills, which add to the magical experience of the tour.
In addition to the set tour, you can also enjoy a meal at the Green Dragon Inn, which serves up traditional New Zealand fare and specially brewed ales that are exclusive to Hobbiton. Visitors can take a stroll through the beautiful gardens, where they can find an array of colorful flowers, fruits, and vegetables, which are used in the food served at the inn.
Hobbiton is a magical place that offers an unforgettable experience that transports you into the world of Middle-earth. The attention to detail is second to none, and you will leave feeling like you have truly lived a part of the film. Whether you are a fan of the books, the movies, or just a lover of beautiful scenery, Hobbiton is a destination that should not be missed.
Hobbiton Facts—Did you know?
The Hobbiton Movie Set was originally built as a temporary set for the Lord of the Rings movies. After the filming was complete, the set was dismantled, but when it was time to film The Hobbit, the filmmakers decided to rebuild the set as a permanent attraction.
The Hobbit holes at Hobbiton are all different sizes, which was done deliberately to create a forced perspective, making the hobbits look smaller than the human characters in the films. Some of the hobbit holes are even large enough for you to go inside and explore!
The Hobbiton set includes over 44 unique hobbit holes, a bridge, a mill, and a vegetable garden, among other structures. The site is also home to the famous Green Dragon Inn, which serves up a range of food and drinks, including a specially brewed Hobbit-themed ale that is exclusive to Hobbiton.