Hobbiton

What are the most recommended things to do in Hobbiton?

Take a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set to see the hobbit holes, Bag End, and the Green Dragon Inn
Enjoy themed photography opportunities throughout the set
Have a meal or drink at the Green Dragon Inn
Explore the gardens and scenic landscapes of the Shire
Attend special evening events or themed tours if available

Introducing Hobbiton

The Hobbit Village, Hobbiton Movie Set , is located in the southwest suburbs of Matamata, a small town on New Zealand's North Island, about 15 kilometers away. The Middle-earth world shown in "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy and "The Hobbit" series was filmed here. The film crew spent 9 months on the set construction to create this village on the farm, and it has now been preserved as a permanent tourist attraction.

Hobbiton, a recreation of the rolling hills of the Shire , is where the Hobbits' unexpected journey begins and ends. You can take a guided tour, where you'll see familiar scenes from the films, including the Hobbit's hut, the mill, the double-arched bridge, and the famous Party Tree.

At the Green Dragon Inn , you can take a break, have a drink, listen to the legendary stories about the origins of the Hobbits, and enjoy the wonderful time in Middle-earth.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Visitors cannot enter on their own and must wait at the door for a tour guide to lead them on a tour. The entire tour takes about 2 hours.

Tickets

Adult : SGD 84

Children ( 9-16 years old) : 42 SGD, (0-8 years old) free

Attraction opening hours

9:00-17:30

Most Popular FAQs for Hobbiton

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Hobbiton is a movie set created for "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" films, located in Matamata, New Zealand. It represents the fictional Shire and has become a world-famous tourist destination, attracting fans of the films and lovers of cinematic history and scenic landscapes.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Hobbiton is located near Matamata in the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island. Visitors can reach it by car, shuttle buses from nearby towns like Rotorua or Hamilton, or organized tour buses. Walking is only feasible within the movie set itself.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily; tours usually run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Best time to visit: spring and summer (September–March) for pleasant weather and full garden blooms

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Adult: NZD $89–$100, Child: NZD $44–$50
Tickets include a guided tour; available online through the official Hobbiton website or at the Matamata Visitor Centre
Special events or evening tours may have different pricing

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Yes, advance booking is highly recommended, especially in peak season (December–February). Booking 2–4 weeks ahead is ideal to secure preferred tour times.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Approximately 2–3 hours for a standard guided tour; longer if attending a themed meal or taking extended photos.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Bag End, the iconic hobbit home of Bilbo Baggins
The Green Dragon Inn and its outdoor area
Hobbit holes with detailed interiors and gardens
Mill and Water Wheel
Party Tree and large Shire landscape views

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are standard and available in English. Some international visitors may have access to printed guides in other languages, but guided tours are predominantly in English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Bag End doorway and garden
Party Tree and surrounding hills
Green Dragon Inn exterior and beer garden
Mill and Water Wheel area
Wide-angle shots of the Shire landscape from higher ground

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the visitor center and walk to the main set entrance
Follow the guided route through hobbit holes and gardens
Stop at Bag End and Party Tree for photos
Conclude at the Green Dragon Inn for refreshments

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, evening banquet tours and special events are offered periodically. These require separate bookings and may include themed dinners or festive lighting of the set.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Peak crowds occur in summer and on weekends. Weekdays and off-peak months (May–August) are less crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Visitor center with toilets, café, and gift shop
Green Dragon Inn serving drinks and snacks
Designated rest areas along the tour route
Souvenir shops selling Hobbiton merchandise

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Hobbiton tour involves walking over uneven terrain and some hills. It is suitable for children and reasonably fit elderly visitors. Limited mobility visitors may need assistance; inquire in advance for accessibility options.