lord of the rings studio tour uk

These Tolkien-Inspired Weekend Trips Are Perfect For Lord Of The Rings Fans

Stay in hobbit houses, Middle-Earth forests, and the real-life Helm’s Deep during these Lord Of The Rings weekend trips.

If you’re one of the many people opting for UK-based vacations and trips this year, we’ve got some fun and quirky destinations for your bucket list. It helps if you’re also fond of Lord Of The Rings and J. R. R. Tolkien in general, but even if you aren’t, these secluded spots and cottages look like the perfect place to unwind in nature. So whether you’re looking for a unique weekend trip or just cannot wait for Amazon’s LOTR series release in 2022, here are three Tolkien-inspired UK destinations you should definitely check out. (All property images by LastMinute-Cottages.co.uk)

Hobbit House, Bodiam, East Sussex, two-hour drive from London

Just because you’re staying in a hobbit house , doesn’t mean you have to live like one. This quirky home may be covered in grass, but it’s actually quite luxurious. Inside you’ll find rounded windows, a round door, vaulted ceilings, a cosy woodburner, plus two bedrooms and several TVs equipped to play the original Lord Of The Rings movies.

But the location of the Hobbit House may actually top the playful architecture. It’s nestled in a vineyard in Rother Valley, just a short walk from Bodiam Castle. Guests can make use of a hot tub, patio, and garden furniture, and they can even use the property’s tennis court. Not bad, huh? Find more info here .

Helm’s Deep-inspired Combe Hay, Cheddar, three-hour drive from London

The breathtaking Cheddar Gorge in Somerset is known to have inspired Tolkien’s ‘Helm’s Deep’, the central stage for the main battle in ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers’. With its towering cliffs and expansive views, it’s no surprise the author took a liking to the steep-sided limestone valley nestled deep within the Mendip Hills. Furthermore, the cave system beneath Cheddar Gorge is rumoured to have inspired the Caves of Aglarond.

If you want to see the majestic hills yourself, Combe Hay Cabin on Strawberryfield Park is an ideal place to experience the area. Again, the eco-lodge for two is rather snazzy, with a hot tub on the decking and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the countryside. Find more info here .

Middle-Earth-inspired Brookbank Folly, Forest of Dean, three-hour drive from London

View this post on Instagram

A little less luxurious but even more Lord Of The Rings-esque is Brookbank Folly in the Forest of Dean. The hand-built timber cottage looks straight out of a fairytale, but is actually located in another area that inspired Tolkien and his stories. The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley are said to have played a role in the creation of the ‘Middle-Earth’.

The entire region is simply beautiful and offers so much for a weekend out in nature. The ancient woodland of Puzzlewood hides gorgeous pathways and the Wye river is the perfect place to recreate the Journey Down the Anduin. Find more info here .

When you’ve crossed all three Lord Of The Rings trips off your list, you can visit these wonderful Welsh hobbit houses next .

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER

Hobbiton Movie Set is open 7 days. Availability is very limited. Bookings essential.

Choose a Tour

• Departing from Tour from The Shire's Rest™ From Matamata I-Site
• Date Selected
• Group size 1
• Departing from Hobbiton™ Beer Festival - Saturday Hobbiton™ Beer Festival - Friday

Step into the enchanting village of Hobbiton™ Movie Set

• Experiences
• Venture Beyond The Door
• Frequently Asked Questions

Experience the magic of Hobbiton Movie Set

Adult (18+ years) $120 | Youth (11-17 years) $60 | Children (0-10) FREE | NEW Family Pass (2x Adults + 2x Youth) $306 | NZ Gold Card $110

• duration: 2.5 hours

Selected weekend and weekday departures available.

Adult (18+ years) $230 | Youth (11-17 years) $177 | Children (5-10) $119 | Infant (0-4) FREE

• duration: 4.5 hours

Selected weekend departures available.

Adult (18+ years) $180 | Youth (11-17 years) $114 | Children (5-8) $64 | Infant (0-4) FREE*

• Duration: 3.5 hours

Escape the winter chill and warm up with a special feast in the Shire™ on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 July 2024

All bookings $290.00

• DURATION: 5 HOURS

Join us for another Hobbiton Movie Set Beer Festival on Friday 1 or Saturday 2 November 2024!

All bookings $300.00

This event is strictly 18+.

• DURATION: 5.5 HOURS

The door has opened on a new adventure and we invite you to step inside and explore the humble home of a typical Hobbit™ family. 

Learn More...

Explore Hobbiton™ Movie Set & Beyond

Getting to Hobbiton™ Movie Set

TEL: +64 7 888 1505

The Shire's Rest: 501 Buckland Road, Hinuera

Tours depart daily from The Shire's Rest and Matamata i-SITE

Tour Experiences

The Green Dragon™ Inn

The Shire's Rest™

PRIVATE EVENTS

Host a Private Event

Venue Information

Current Vacancies

• Follow us on Facebook
• Follow us on Instagram
• See us on TripAdvisor

We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. By continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. You can learn more in our   Privacy Policy .

Locally Family Owned & Operated

Trusted LOTR Experts Since 2005

Access to Exclusive Filming Locations

Epic movie locations.

Lord of the Rings Tours, Queenstown & Glenorchy

Journey with our expert guides deep into Middle Earth and explore unique Lord Of The Rings locations around Queenstown and Glenorchy.

Feel the LOTR trilogy come to life as you visit the jaw-dropping landscapes that inspired Peter Jackson’s film locations for The Lord Of The Rings movies & Hollywood blockbusters like X-men Origins, Wolverine & The Chronicles of Narnia.

You’ll be granted exclusive access to the awe inspiring scenery of Arcadia Station & Paradise, right in the heart of the Southern Lakes region.

BOOK YOUR TOUR VIEW TOUR DETAILS

START YOUR JOURNEY

Lord of the Rings Scenic Tour

Journey deep into middle earth and explore lord of the rings locations from queenstown to glenorchy. on your lotr guided tour, you will discover breathtaking and iconic lotr scenery from isengard, amon hen, lothlorien forest, the misty mountains and ithilien.

Encounter stunning ancient beech forest, braided rivers and glacier carved valleys as you roam through UNESCO World Heritage Listed – Mt Aspiring National Park.

Explore the unique flora and fauna and get up close to birdlife and animals. Discover the staggering beauty of the Dart River Valley, Paradise and Arcadia Station.

Take the opportunity to dress up in Lord of the Rings costume in Lothlorien Forest. Come away with amazing photos and lasting memories from this unforgettable experience.

Tour Details

Morning or afternoon tea included.

BOOK ONLINE NOW

LORD OF THE RINGS TOUR INCLUSIONS

We are the only company with access to the actual filming locations on private land for; the hobbit, lord of the rings, x-men origins: wolverine and the chronicles of narnia: prince caspian. don’t miss out, book today .

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

As a local family we take pride in each and every tour.

Light morning/ afternoon tea inc.

This is morning or afternoon tea normally around 10.15am or 3.30pm.

SMALL GROUPS IN COMFORT

Small personalised groups per guide / vehicle – our vehicles are 4WD with forward seats

AWESOME  VALUE

One of the very best value tours you’ll find.Adult $189 Child $99 (5-14yrs)

OPTIONAL COSTUME DRESS UP

Pretend you are a LOTR star, dress up in capes and re-enact sword play in Lothlorien forest.

INTERPRETATION BOOKLET

We have a booklet with our full commentary in both English and Chinese

ACCOMMODATION PICK UP

We pick up at some central Queenstown accommodation locations.

DEPARTS QUEENSTOWN

Our tour departs Queenstown at 8.00am and 1.30pm

Intimate Tour Groups

Travel in small intimate groups with our local guides, who have a real passion and knowledge of the area.

Take in the diverse landscape of ancient beech forest, braided rivers and glacier carved valleys. Explore the unique flora and fauna and get up close to New Zealand’s unique birdlife.

BOOK YOUR TOUR

World Heritage Park

Experience some of the world’s most spectacular scenery in the Mt Aspiring World Heritage Park and along NZ’s most scenic highway; the Glenorchy Road.

You will come away with the most breathtaking scenic photos and magical memories. We are one of the few tour companies approved by the Department of Conservation to enter the World Heritage Park.

LET US SHOW YOU

Exclusive access to film locations in Arcadia Station

That’s right… Middle Earth is right on our doorstep and we have exclusive access to its heart. Join us in exploring filming locations on private land for; The Hobbit, Lord Of The Rings, X-Men Origins: Wolverine and The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.

Stories and secrets will be shared by our guides who have great insight into the filming and the local areas involved.

TAKE ME THERE!

Travellers’ Choice 2022

Pure Glenorchy have always received fantastic ratings on Tripadvisor, thanks to our enthusiastic customers and passionate tour guides.

This year we are delighted to have been awarded the Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Award. Our Lord Of The Rings Tour was voted #8 in the Top Experiences category for the whole of New Zealand! The perfect reason to experience it for yourself…

CHECK AVAILABILITY

Pure Glenorchy – Pure New Zealand

Pure Glenorchy is one of the few companies to have DOC Concession and to be also Qualmark Silver Endorsed, meaning we deliver a genuine, constantly improving sustainable experience.

We are committed to keeping our environment pristine. We feel privileged to operate in such an untouched environment and adhere to strict environmental guidelines.

Explore the unique flora and fauna and get up close to birdlife and animals. Discover the absolute beauty of the Dart River Valley, Paradise and The Mt Aspiring National Park.

From Our Guests...

Talking to the guides joel and kate about the area, watching the dress up and having sword fights was my favourite part and the views were awesome – brilliant tour would have given it 7 stars if i could – thanks for the great time..

R Waugh, Tripadvisor

“Fantastic tour! Our guide picked us up from our hotel and made us feel at home immediately, James is a very entertaining guy full of heaps of info, enjoyed every moment with him. The tour and scenery is breathtaking it makes you remember parts of the movie and you can picture the scenes right where you’re standing. Dressing up in the costumes was great fun. Thank you James for a wonderful tour and for being a great host!”

Miranda, Australia

“Well worth the time. Our guides were well versed in the geography of the Lord of the Rings and were able to put what we saw into context. The natural beauty seen on the trip was an added bonus. 5 stars!”

Michael, TripAdvisor

“Thank you for taking our little group of six on an adventure. Being Lord of the Ring’s enthusiasts it was wonderful being part of where a lot of the scenes took place. As soon as I get home I am watching it again just knowing I was there. Loved getting dressed as Gandalf. Thank you for helping me personally as it was a little difficult for me to get around.”

Mary, Sydney

“Booked last minute with my partner and we had a GREAT time! Very knowledgable on LOTR and New Zealand landscape, culture etc. I recommend taking this tour even if you are not a huge LOTR fan since it is a smaller group, but the guides can answer any questions you have, so be ready to nerd out if you want to 🙂 ”

mnovasel, TripAdvisor

“Queenstown based tours are more heavenly than one can imagine. On the way to Glenorchy we come across the million dollar scene of the mountains and the blue water lake. You can spend a whole day photographing in Glenorchy. As we go to explore the various spots where Lord of the Rings was shot you get to reach Paradise too, a truely remarkable spot aptly named so. Overall experience was excellent.”

Aapen, India

• Southeast Asia
• North America
• Central & South America
• Middle-East
• Australia & South Pacific
• Luxury Awards
• Family Travel
• Solo Travel
• Beaches & Islands
• Zodiac Travels
• Wellness & Spas
• Accessories
• Points and Miles
• #TheGreenEdit
• T+L Tastemakers
• Sustainable Travel
• T+L Experiences

An Immersive, Nature-Set 'Lord Of The Rings' Experience Is Coming To The UK

The "lord of the rings" community will be treated to a new part of the saga from july 25 to october 15, 2023..

By: Travel + Leisure Published: Mar 10, 2023 10:00 AM UTC

The Shire is heading to the British countryside. Fans of “The Lord of the Rings” rejoice: a new musical offers a journey into the world of J.R.R. Tolkien. And this unique experience will be set outdoors in nature’s midst. Ready for the adventure?

After Hogwarts , Gotham City and Hawkins, welcome to Middle-earth. The “Lord of the Rings” community will be treated to a new part of the saga from July 25 to October 15, 2023, at the Watermill Theatre, located in Bagnor, Berkshire, United Kingdom, where a new outdoor musical production will be staged.

All you need to know about the immersive ‘Lord Of The Rings’ experience

According to information reported exclusively by Deadline , the Shire, the land where the Hobbits live, will be recreated in the wilderness, serving as the stage for the 20 or so actors involved in this adventure. Tickets will go on sale on March 15, starting at 25 pounds sterling, or about USD 29.74. This summer’s going to be epic…

This summer’s going to be epic… https://t.co/fxCs1bDOrO pic.twitter.com/WGlPOnr0K1 — The Watermill Theatre (@WatermillTh) March 2, 2023

Book your stay here

The musical will take place only partially outdoors, with some scenes being staged inside the theatre: “This production will predominantly take place in the theatre, but short sections at the beginning and end will be outside in our gardens, where seating is limited. In the case of bad weather, there will be some cover shelter, but we would advise that you come prepared with wet weather clothing with comfortable footwear,” the production warned on its official website.

Based on the work of J.R.R. Tolkien, the musical is co-created by Matthew Warchus, who wrote “Matilda, the musical,” with music by AR Rahman, who composed the music for the film “Slumdog Millionaire” for which he won two Oscars in 2009.

Related Stories

If You Loved Netflix's 'Wednesday', You Can Visit These Filming Locations In Romania

I Stayed At Both 'White Lotus' Hotels — Here's What They're Really Like

The location was not chosen at random since the theatre is located next to the county of Oxfordshire, where the author of the mythical saga dreamed up the fantasy world of “Lord of the Rings.” About two years ago, Paul Hart, artistic director of the Watermill Theatre, came up with the idea for this immersive musical, Deadline revealed: “We’re going to give audiences a very visceral experience in that they’ll be arriving into the Shire for Bilbo Baggins’ eleventy-first (111) birthday on our lawn,” he told the American publication.

The production will celebrate the cult character’s birthday in style on September 22 with a special evening event starting at 5:30 pm. It will cost 50 pounds sterling, or about USD 59.48, to attend. The musical will not be suitable for children under 10 years of age due to the topics covered. The production also advises against carrying babies in your arms. Some performances will be accessible, offering sign language, with closed captioning or audio descriptions.

The universe of “Lord of the Rings” is still a major draw for producers and fans alike. Amazon’s Prime Video managed to make the drama “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” one of the most-watched series in 2022. Meanwhile recently, Warner Bros Pictures and New Line announced a new animated film set in the “Lord of the Rings” universe called “The War of the Rohirrim.” The Fellowship of the Ring is far from being broken.

Book Your Stay In Berkshire Here

This story was published via AFP relaxnews

Main and Feature Image Credit: Photography Courtesy of Warner Bros. France©

Related: 12 Batman Movie Locations You Can Visit!

• Lord of the rings
• United Kingdom

Travel + Leisure

The Boyz ‘Zeneration II’ Tour: Venues, Dates, Tickets, And More Details

By Melissa Foong

London Tops List Of The World’s Best Cities For 2024, Singapore Comes In Fifth

By Travel + Leisure

A Survival Guide To The IU H.E.R. 2024 World Tour Concert In Singapore

By Derrick Tan

A Literature Museum Will Open In Hong Kong This June

By Jianne Soriano

Alan Walker Announces Asia Tour With A Stop In Malaysia This June 2024

Infinite’s Kim Myung-Soo (L) Announces A Fan Concert In Hong Kong This May

Calling All Deobis! The Boyz Will Visit Macau This August For Their ‘Zeneration II’ Tour

Work From Paradise: Italy Introduces Digital Nomad Visa

By Yashita Vashishth

ATARASHII GAKKO! In Bangkok: Tickets, Date, Venue, And More

By Vichayuth Chantan

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest on travel, stay & dining.

You’re all set

Thank you for your subscription.

Tour of the Lord of the Rings Studios and Filming Sights – Half-day in Wellington

Description, good to know.

• Pricing details

You would like

Discover the different sites and locations where a number of scenes from the lord of the rings were filmed, the visit of the studios (with access to the “window into workshop” exhibit) to discover the behind-the-scenes of filming, explanations and commentary from your guide in a small group, the panoramic views of the city and wellington port from mount victoria, essential information *, duration 4 hours, starting time 8:30 am , 1:30 pm.

Immerse yourself in the magic of the Lord of the Rings by visiting the film sights and the production studios! The first step of your visit will be Courtenay Place, Wellington’s nightlife hotspot where you will visit the Embassy Movie Theatre. This is where the Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King and The Hobbit held their world premieres to almost 100,000 people (including a number of stars and celebrities!). You will then make your way to Mount Victoria where you will benefit from a spectacular view of the city and of Wellington’s port. Continue by descending the “green belt” towards the Outer Shire woods where a number of scenes were filmed!

The next stop will be “Weelywood”, the heart of Wellington’s film industry, located in the suburb of Miramar. This is where Peter Jackson and Weta productions created and produced the Lord of the Rings trilogy and The Hobbit . The visit of the studios will also include the latest exhibit “Window into Workshop” revealing the daily operations of the studios and the production company during the making of all 4 films. Watch a short-movie on the immense digital technology work that helped with the films special effects. In addition, you will also have access to the cave-museum. You will also be given a guided tour themed around the creation of accessories and make-up. Throughout this half-day visit, you will be accompanied by an expert guide and passionate Tolkien fan. He will tell you why Peter Jackson chose to film in the superb region.

• Availability: every day (excluding exceptional dates)
• Departure point: your hotel in Wellington
• Time: 8h30am or 1:30pm (Hotel pick-up will take place around 15 minutes before the scheduled tour start time)  
• The tour will take place in a small group of up to 15 participants maximum
• Activity not suitable for people with reduced mobility

Price includes

• The visit of different filming sights used in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit
• The tour of the studios and Weta Productions
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Price doesn’t include

• Tips (optional)
• All other extras

Customers also look

Immersive THE LORD OF THE RINGS Musical Will Open in the UK This Summer

The Lord of the Rings will play at the Watermill from Tuesday 25 July until Sunday 15 October 2023. 

A brand-new production of THE LORD OF THE RINGS, a musical tale based on the classic trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien , is coming to the Watermill Theatre in London this summer. The musical features a book and lyrics by Shaun McKenna and Matthew Warchus and music by A.R. Rahman (Bombay Dreams, Slumdog Millionaire), Värttinä and Tony Award winner and Grammy nominated Christopher Nightingale (Matilda the Musical).

With the production set across both the Watermill auditorium and gardens, audiences will be immersed in the magical landscape of Tolkien, joining an ensemble cast and large-scale puppets on an epic journey celebrating the power of friendship and common goodness to conquer unimaginable evil.

The Lord of the Rings will play at the Watermill from Tuesday 25 July until Sunday 15 October 2023.

Tickets will go on sale to Friends of The Watermill on 15 March, to Watermill email subscribers on 21 March ( sign up here ), and on general sale on 22 March, via watermill.org.uk/The-Lord-Of-The-Rings . Tickets for the performance on 22 September, Bilbo Baggins' birthday, will include a celebration in the Watermill gardens before the show.

As the Hobbits celebrate Bilbo Baggins' eleventy-first birthday, he gifts his nephew Frodo his inheritance - including his most precious belonging - a gold ring. Little does he know that his legacy will confront Frodo with an immense and impossible task; a perilous journey across the darkest realms of Mordor to foil the Dark Lord's quest for total dominion.

Paul Hart said, "We are thrilled to be bringing Bag End to Bagnor this summer with one of the most epic stories ever written. Our production of The Lord of the Rings will take audiences from the lush idyll of the Shire in our gardens to the darkest depths of the Cracks of Doom. You may be wondering how we're going to fit this huge show in our 200-seat theatre - come and witness the impossible!"

Claire Murray said, "Staging The Lord of the Rings reflects that our ambition hasn't been diminished by the loss of Arts Council England funding. We're continuing to invest in the work on our stages, in the talented artists who create this work and in reaching and connecting with audiences locally and nationally. To enable this, we're continuing to review our business model and we're pleased to say that we're able to offer 28% of the tickets for the show for only £25, with priority on sales for Friends and email subscribers. With a 12-week long run, we can't wait to welcome more people than ever to our unique and magical site to experience this epic story."

Fredrica Drotos, Director of Brand and Licensing at Middle-earth Enterprises added; "Middle-earth Enterprises along with Kevin Wallace can't imagine a more fitting locale for the live staging of the Fellowship's epic adventures from the Shire to Mordor, and back again, than at the Watermill Theatre , set in the bucolic Berkshire countryside."

The Lord of the Rings will be directed by Paul Hart with design by Simon Kenny .

The Watermill is a 200-seat regional powerhouse, with an unparalleled reputation for producing bold, world-class theatre with local and national reach from its home in West Berkshire. It also has an extensive programme of community outreach, and schools touring work, and a firm commitment to diversity, education, and talent development.

TICKET CENTRAL

Recommended For You

• Beyond the Wall
• Castle Black
• Dragonstone
• King's Landing
• Destroyed Throne Room
• Getting Here
• Opening Hours
• When You Arrive
• What's On
• What's Nearby
• Food & Drink
• Studio Shop
• Audio Guides
• General Admission
• Travel Packages
• Special Offers
• Accessibility
• Why Choose Us
• Our Location
• Sustainability
• Hospitality
• Make an Enquiry
• The Studio Restaurant
• The Great Hall of Winterfell
• All Hire Spaces

Popular Searches

• Tickets & Packages

Step behind the scenes of game of thrones

At the principal film studios in Banbridge, Northern Ireland

PRE-BOOK SEVEN KINGDOMS AFTERNOON TEA

Experience The Studio Tour

Discover how Game of Thrones was brought to life on screen

Game of Thrones Authentic Film Studios

Journey behind the cameras and discover the secrets that made HBO's Game of Thrones the world's most successful TV series

Unique Experience

Get up close and personal with screen-used costumes, weapons, props, and authentic film sets

Convenient Location

Game of Thrones Studio Tour is located just 30 minutes from Belfast and 90 minutes from Dublin

An Adventure For All

Game of Thrones Studio Tour offers an unforgettable experience ... there's something for everyone

Five Star Rating

5-star reviews recommend Game of Thrones Studio Tour as an unmissable attraction

• Plan Your Visit
• Buy Tickets

Game of Thrones Studio Tour is an unforgettable journey that takes you into the heart of Westeros, captivating families, fans and filmmaking enthusiasts of all ages

Experience game of thrones like never before

located in Banbridge, Northern Ireland

One of the largest indoor visitor attractions on the island of Ireland, just 30 minutes from Belfast and 90 minutes from Dublin

What people are saying

Discover more.

Plan your epic day out at Game of Thrones Studio Tour

Step into the world of Game of Thrones

Online shop

Exclusive Game of Thrones merchandise

The Lord of the Rings Trilogy

Buy / rent - digital.

Buy - On Disc

Action Adventure, Fantasy

The Lord of the Rings Tour - 14 day

Im going on an adventure!

This 14-day LOTR New Zealand adventure is our most popular tour. Take a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Middle-earth, travelling from Auckland to Queenstown via many exciting The Lord of the Rings filming locations, movie studios, and adventures.

• Overview & highlights
• Inclusions & Add ons

This 14-day The Lord of the Rings Tour of New Zealand is our most popular tour. Take a once-in-a-lifetime journey through Middle-earth, travelling from Auckland to Queenstown via many exciting LOTR filming locations , movie studios, and experiences. This Tour is the ultimate adventure for an avid Tolkien fan!

You will also meet those involved in the making of the movies, and travel off the beaten track into the breathtaking landscapes and natural attractions New Zealand has to offer.

Along the way, there are opportunities for helicopter flights and landings on iconic mountains used in the films, blacksmithing workshops, kayaking down rivers in stunning The Lord of the Rings movie locations, bungee jumping or 4-wheel drive tours to amazing and remote film locations. All within a small fellowship of like-minded travelers, led by our passionate LOTR guides.

• Climb the magnificent Edoras
• Visit the makers of the 'One Ring'
• Explore The Shire at Hobbiton!
• Meet people involved with both The Lord Of The Rings & The Hobbit Trilogies!
• Dine in The Green Dragon
• Behind-the-scenes Weta Workshop tour and exclusive discounts for Red Carpet Tours passengers!
• Movie guest presentations
• Relax and enjoy a scenic cruise ( 3.5 hours ) between the North and South Islands
• Explore Laketown and Trollshaw Forest
• Charge across the Pelennor Fields
• Visit Gollums Fishing Pool
• Experience the beautiful Queenstown - the fun and adventure capital of New Zealand
• Visit beautiful Rohan country
• Step inside Fangorn Forest
• Kayak down the same river as the Dwarves in Barrels scene from The Hobbit

Take a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Middle-earth!

2024 Tour prices

Single NZ$8,100 (approx US$4,835)

Double: NZ$ 7,000 per person (2 people sharing a room) (approx US$4,180)

Triple: NZ$ 7,000 per person (3 people sharing a room) (approx US$4,180)

2025 Tour prices

Single NZ$8,450 (approx US$5,050) - Book here

Double: NZ$ 7,350 per person (2 people sharing a room) (approx US$4,385) - Book here

Triple: NZ$ 7,350 per person (3 people sharing a room) (approx US$4,385) - Book here

You can use a currency exchange website to check the cost in your currency.

March, September and December Tours include the evening Hobbiton Tour and banquet dinner in the Green Dragon. (September Tour can be booked through our Hobbits Celebration Tour page). All other months include the Hobbiton Day Tour and Festive Feast Lunch in the Green Dragon Marquee.

We gather this evening for our Welcome Dinner, to meet each other and prepare for our early start tomorrow. Winter months include a special movie guest. Accommodation: Auckland hotel.

- Auckland to Rotorua

Be ready to depart at 7.45am ~ Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton. (A full cooked Breakfast is included from Day 2 to 14.) Prepare to be enchanted by Hobbiton - a very special site to visit. Have your camera batteries charged for photos of the tranquil Shire, Bag End, Sam & Rosie’s cottage, the Party Tree. Enjoy a cool drink at The Green Dragon followed by lunch in a Marquee beside The Green Dragon (included in tour cost). In Rotorua later today you will have the option of the beautiful Polynesian Spa and / or a fantastic Maori Cultural evening, dinner and show ( cost additional). Overnight Rotorua.

- Rotorua to Trollshaw Forest

Rotorua to Trollshaw Forest and a wonderful guided tour of this Hobbit location - stunning scenery. We will enjoy a picnic lunch (included) on our way to the majestic Huka Falls and the geothermal capital of New Zealand; Taupo. Overnight -Lakeside Taupo accomodation.

- Taupo to Wellington

This morning a Hobbit location of the Secret Entrance to Erebor and Lotr location of Gollum’s fishing pool, where Andy Serkis was careful not to plunge over the waterfall! Then, it's on to Wellywood ~ Wellington City. Tonight you may like to dine at “The Green Parrot Restaurant” (Optional) - said to be a favourite of Viggo’s. Accommodation: Wellington, for the next 3 nights.

- Wellywood Day

Wellywood Day, Miramar - New Zealand's movie capital! Weta Workshop extended tour, Weta Cave, The beautiful Roxy Theatre for lunch ~ included in the tour. Later today we check out the 'Get off the road!' location from Fellowship Of The Ring, overlooking the city. Dinner tonight? So many choices, your Guide will help you. Visit the Embassy Theatre, where the ROTK and The Hobbit World Premiere were held.

- Presentation day with Daniel Reeve

Presentation day with LOTR / Hobbit Calligrapher and Cartographer Daniel Reeve. He will blow you away with amazing talents! This is your opportunity to purchase some very special souvenirs. In Winter months we add a special movie guest presentation. Later today is yours to explore Te Papa Museum / see a movie at the special Embassy Theatre / or visit other Wellington places of interest.

- Wellington to Nelson

Our North Island Adventure concludes and our South Island Adventure begins! We catch the Inter-Island ferry from Wellington, sail to Picton in the South Island (approx. 3.5 hrs). After lunch, on our way to Nelson, stopping along the way to view the famous river, where the Dwarfs escaped from the Elves, in barrels! How about a fantastic 1 hour easy kayak down this amazing river and movie location with experienced local guides!! (optional extra) Accommodation tonight: Nelson.

- Nelson day

Nelson day: This morning we meet and chat with the makers of the "One Ring". There, we meet Jens Hansen's son, Halfdan Hansen and see the wonderful range Lord Of The Rings and Hobbit jewellery. From lunchtime, weather permitting, there is a two hour ‘optional extra’ helicopter ride to the LOTR sites of 'South of Rivendell' and 'Dimrill Dale'. More than highly recommended! Accommodation tonight: Nelson

- Nelson to Christchurch

An early start south through the very scenic South Island, stopping along the way for second breakfast, viewing of the Fur Seal colony and lunch via the beautiful wild Kaikoura Coast. Time for our coach quiz! We then travel south to Christchurch. An early night tonight for a big day tomorrow. Accommodation: Christchurch.

It's time to head for the magnificence that is EDORAS - a very spiritual experience! It’s a 35-minute trek to reach the summit. The 360-degree views are breathtaking! You will stand where the Golden Hall once stood and survey the mountain panorama all around you as you fly the Rohan flag! You will be reluctant to leave. Refreshment awaits us in the township of Geraldine, before we drive south past the stunning Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki. Keep a lookout for our highest mountain; Aoraki, Mt Cook – the Cloud Piercer of 12,500 feet. Overnight; Twizel. (Buffet Dinner included tonight.) This is a great place to study the night sky - and see the Southern Cross. Special Guest a local Hobbit inspired seamstress - you may like to buy your own cloak.

- The Pelennor Fields and Laketown

The Pelennor Fields ~ an area that once rang to the thunderous sound of 250 horses on the charge, as King Theoden’s battle speech roused men to battle. Moving on, we visit the stunning location of Laketown and enjoy a guided tour there. Time to try your archery skills - perhaps we have a budding Bard or Tauriel amongst us? Then head to Omarama for lunch. This afternoon a special visit to Mrs Jones's orchard. Overnight - Cromwell. The Harvest Hotel.

- Cromwell to Queenstown

This morning there are opportunities to Bungy at the famous Kawarau AJ Hackett Bungy bridge. Keen to jump above the river Anduin? Then onto Queenstown to enjoy this beautiful location, here we have time to pay for our Sunday activities and buy some lunch to take with us tomorrow on our big locations day. Our last 3 nights are in picturesque Queenstown, many great restaurants to explore.

- Queenstown

The breaking of the Fellowship. Buy a picnic lunch today to take to Mavora Lakes, where we visit several Lord of The Rings NZ sites - The calling up of Shadowfax - The Silverlode bridge - The Orc funeral pyre - Fangorn Forest - Nen Hithoel - The log which concealed Merry & Pippin before Frodo left the fellowship - And where Sam and Frodo paddled away on the next stage of their journey. Stunning scenery! Tonight is our farewell dinner at our Hotel, feast like Hobbits ! Tomorrow is our Optional activity day in Queenstown.

- Optional Activities

Devote today to optional activities! A guided walk on the Routeburn Track? -A Nomad Safari 4 Wheel drive half day tour ! - A relaxing Wine and Food Tour. Perhaps a cruise on Lake Wakatipu. -A parasail over the lake. -A coach & cruise trip to Milford Sound. --An adrenalin Jet Boat ride or a Bungy jump? -Para-sailing? Para-gliding? White water rafting? A hot air balloon ride? Trout fishing? Relaxation at Onsen Hot Pools? -Or retail therapy ~ shopping in Queenstown. The list "goes ever on" and your Guide will discuss the many options available and assist with bookings.

Departure Day

- Thank you for traveling with us

Alas ~ your journey through Middle Earth with Red Carpet Tours is at an end. Thank you for traveling with us ..... there and back again..... Haere ra ~ Good-bye from us all at Red Carpet Tours. "Nai tiruvantel ar varyuvantel i Valar tielyanna nu vilya: May the Valar protect you on your path under the sky." On departure day you will need a domestic airfare from Queenstown to Auckland and then your international flight home from Auckland. We can recommend Air New Zealand for this domestic flight: www.airnewzealand.co.nz

• Private bus  transportation
• Welcome pack  for direct bookings
• All guiding services
• Hotel Accommodation
• 14 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches & 3 buffet Dinners
• Entry Fees to private The Lord Of The Rings New Zealand sites
• Department of Conservation fees
• Entry fees for Hobbiton and festive feast lunch in the Green Dragon Marquee
• Tour fees at Trollshaws
• Weta Workshop extended Tour and workshop
• Inter-Island Ferry (3.5-hour cruise)  Wellington - Picton
• Special presentation guest from the films

Being in the Southern Hemisphere, our seasons here in New Zealand may be at different times of the year to yours (depending on where you live). Therefore, we have found it necessary to have seasonal itineraries to enhance your experience of Middle Earth. These comprise of the following months: 

NEW 2025 Dates - Fully Booked

2026 Dates Coming Soon...

What people have said

I don’t have enough good things to say about this incredible experience. Our guide Julie is so knowledgeable and fun about everything LOTR AND New Zealand in general! My husband and I went for our belated honeymoon and I would do it all again in a heartbeat. You’re fed like Hobbits...

Taylor & Nick L

From first contact with the James family, and the Lord of the Rings-Red Carpet Tours, you are in the best of hands. You expect so much on the tour but you receive so much more. I came back from my first tour believing I'd never have a better, truly satisfying experience, and they could...

Red Carpet Tours is a fabulous company - been with them 3 times. I agree with others posted here that it is the BEST way to see New Zealand, especially if you are a "Lord of the Rings" and "Hobbit" fan - and even if you're not! From all the Magnificent New Zealand...

There is a reason that this company is the premier in its field. I’ve been home for almost a week now and I’m still struggling to comprehend how incredible my experience with Red Carpet Tours was. This was hands down one of the best things I ever have, and likely ever will do in my...

This is the best and ONLY way for a LOtR/Hobbit fan to experience New Zealand. Julie and her team are fantastic, knowledgeable people who, you can tell, put so much time and effort into making sure your experience with them is an amazing one! You will not regret choosing them as your guides...

Stephanie B

This tour changed my life, Julie and Josh were amazing tour guides, everywhere we went was stunning. I could not have asked for anything more from them. Even where there were some hiccups outside of anyone’s control Julie and the team worked tirelessly to ensure we had the best experience...

Just returned as part of the February 2023 Fellowship with Red Carpet Tours and it was one of the best trips of my life. I've been wanting to do this for years and was worried my expectations might be too high, but it was amazing and I wish it didn't have to end! Love the family...

Just concluded my third trip with Red Carpet Tours. 5 stars for the 3rd time running! Excellent planning and attention to detail by the James Family and fabulous guiding by Julie. Once again, a very lovely, friendly ‘Fellowship’ of travellers with a common interest. You might expect...

My second tour through Middle Earth (New Zealand) was just as wonderful as the first, the locations you are taken to are just amazing. Best suited for people with interest in the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films, you make so many friends throughout your journey that you become your own...

This was a trip of a lifetime. I honestly couldn’t imagine seeing Middle Earth any other way. Julie is amazing and truly cultivated an experience that I will treasure forever. If you’re thinking about booking this trip—just do it. I promise that you will have the time of your life.

OH NO! WE DON'T SEE ANY ITEMS HERE.

• House of the Dragon
• Blue Beetle
• A Christmas Story
• National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
• Game of Thrones
• Gilmore Girls
• Harley Quinn
• Looney Tunes
• Mortal Kombat
• Rick and Morty
• The Powerpuff Girls
• Sex and the City
• The Lord of the Rings
• Teen Titans Go!
• Wizarding World
• Wonder Woman
• Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory
• 4K Ultra HD
• Archive Collection
• Replica Football Jerseys
• Christmas Jumpers
• Hoodies & Sweatshirts
• Phone Cases
• Water Bottles
• Tech Accessories
• Toys & Collectibles
• PlayStation
• Nintendo Switch
• Game of Thrones Studio Tour Belfast
• Harry Potter A Forbidden Forest Experience
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour
• The Making of Harry Potter in London
• The Making of Harry Potter in Japan
• Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
• Warner Bros. Movie World in Australia
• Parque Warner

The Lord of the Rings | Shop DVDs & Gifts | Official WB Shop UK

• 4K Ultra HD (3)
• Blu-ray (5)
• Action / Adventure (15)
• Fantasy (2)
• The Hobbit (5)
• The Lord of the Rings (38)
• Accessories (1)
• Clothing (4)
• Home & Office (6)
• Blankets (1)
• Bundles (1)
• Drinking Glasses (1)
• Hoodies (9)
• Mouse Pads (1)
• Phone Cases (8)
• Pint Glasses (3)
• Posters (2)
• Sweaters (1)
• T-Shirts (7)
• Water Bottles (1)

Sign up & save

Sign up for our newsletter and SAVE 15% on your next order.