The answer is no, you don’t need to be a fan to enjoy the adventure! While lovers of the books and films will recognise many iconic sites and scenes, Hobbiton is designed to delight everyone, from curious travellers to casual sightseers alike. Many visitors who have not yet seen The Shire™ on screen finish their journey around the Movie Set and go on the revisit through the films afterwards. 

What Is Hobbiton Movie Set?

Nestled among rolling green hills near the rural town of Matamata in New Zealand’s North Island, Hobbiton Movie Set is the original filming location for The Shire, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies.

Today, Hobbiton Movie Set is one of New Zealand’s most visited attractions, not just because of the cinematic legacy, but because the tours offer a truly immersive and authentic experience that blends storytelling, scenery, and craftsmanship alongside authentic Kiwi hospitality.

Not a Fan Yet? You’re Still Very Welcome

Many international visitors arrive knowing little (or nothing) about Middle-earth™ but leave charmed by the location, staff and inspiring stories that are shared.

Visitors love:

  • The landscape: Lush farmland, rolling green hills, and peaceful countryside that showcase the beauty of rural New Zealand. 

  • The detail: From the colourful Hobbit Holes™ and iconic Bag End, to The Millhouse, double arch stone bridge, and iconic Party Tree, every corner is thoughtfully crafted and maintained with careful attention to detail.

  • The guided storytelling: Friendly, knowledgeable guides share a mix of film facts, history, and light-hearted tales, tailored for all levels of fandom.

  • The relaxed pace: This is a stroll, not a sprint. There’s time to wander, take photos, appreciate the details and soak up the atmosphere.

Our visit to Hobbiton Movie Set was an absolute highlight of our trip to New Zealand.
The set is stunning and it truly feels like you’re stepping into Middle-earth.
It’s rare to find an experience the whole family enjoys equally, but Hobbiton absolutely delivered. Highly recommend!

Tripadvisor, January 2026

A Living Film Set

Unlike many film locations, when Hobbiton Movie Set was constructed for filming of The Hobbit, it was built from permanent materials and has been lovingly maintained ever since by a team of passionate and highly skilled gardeners, landscapers and artists so it feels less like a museum and more like a living village. Smoke curls from chimneys, gardens grow with the seasons, and every detail hints at the everyday lives of its imaginary residents.

Even those unfamiliar with the films say it feels like stepping into a storybook...

Must visit even if you are not a Lord of the Rings fan. Very well organized and professional. You can not beat the landscape scenes and attention to detail on the set.

Google Review, 2026

Food, Drink, and a Touch of Hobbit Hospitality

All tours include a visit to The Green Dragon™ Inn, where guests enjoy a complimentary Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ beverage in the cosy, rustic interiors of the Inn. For those wishing to linger longer, some of our other experiences include indulgent meals on the Movie Set. The Evening Banquet Tour offers a two course banquet feast and a lantern lit wander through paths through the paths of The Shire, while The Behind The Scenes and Second Breakfast Tours include a chance to feast like a Hobbit with banquet meals inside The Millhouse. If a buffet is your preference, our Tour and Lunch Combo is a must do.

Our dining experiences are about warm welcomes, comfort food and timeless charm in a picturesque setting... second helpings are always encouraged! 

So, Do You Have to Be a Fan?

If you enjoy beautiful landscapes, thoughtful storytelling, and unique travel experiences, Hobbiton Movie Set is well worth a place on your New Zealand itinerary. Fans may arrive with expectations, but non-fans often leave just as enchanted by the experience.

All that’s required is curiosity… and perhaps a sense of adventure!