JRR Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings adaptations on screen have got to be one of the most iconic film sets of all time, from the Gates of Mordor to Fangorn Forest and Rivendell. But none are quite The Shire’s Hobbiton, home to Bilbo and Frodo.
While the real life New Zealand film set for Hobbiton can be visited on day tours, Airbnb are now giving fans sleepover access to the original movie set and filming locations for the first time ever.
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“For more than two decades, we’ve welcomed millions of passionate fans to Hobbiton Movie Set, but never before has anyone had the opportunity to spend a night in Middle-earth,” Host Russell Alexander said. “I am delighted to share the beauty of my family’s farm and pleased to be hosting this iconic location on Airbnb for fans from around the world.”
Those interested in staying overnight in ‘Middle Earth’ can look forward to exploring 44 Hobbit Holes, The Millhouse, The Green Dragon Inn, and other beloved locations from Tolkien's world. Once-in-a-lifetime activities include private access to a personal Hobbit Hole, complete with afternoon tea. Come evening, there'll be a banquet in The Green Dragon Inn with a feast featuring hobbit favourites, like beef and ale stew, roast chickens, freshly baked breads and plenty of ale. And of course, a behind the scenes private tour of the Hobbiton movie set.
Price
To celebrate the film's 10th anniversary, it'll be $10 New Zealand dollars per night (about £5), not including taxes or fees.
The location
The set location, nestled in green, rolling hills in New Zealand’s Waikato region is actually on a 2,500-acre working farm. It's a two hour drive from Auckland airport, and travellers are offered a car for the round-trip journey. Flights to Auckland are the traveller's own responsibility.
Dates and reservations
There are three date options, all in March 2023: 2-4; 9-11; and 16-18. Reservation requests are made through the Airbnb portal starting December 13, 2022 at 9 PM GMT
House rules
Alexander has also prepared some rules for all elves, wizards, hobbits and magical creatures who would like to stay in Hobbiton:
- No Unexpected Parties, please – unless with Gandalf and company.
- Bare feet are allowed, but wipe them first.
- Magical rings permitted, but keep them secret, keep them safe.
- Pony parking is provided only at The Green Dragon Inn.
- Straying far at night is discouraged, thanks to multiple troll sightings of late.
- No pets are allowed, except Pickles the resident Hobbiton cat.
- Never laugh at live dragons…
