Facts About Hobbiton: Behind the Scenes

Hobbiton Movie Set: Beyond the tour

Hobbiton Movie set isn’t just a film location — it’s a living piece of Middle-earth, full of surprising details, hidden secrets, and fascinating trivia. From its construction to the daily care that keeps it alive, Hobbiton has countless stories to tell.

Quick facts about the Hobbiton movie set

  • Year built: 1999 for The Lord of the Rings
  • Number of Hobbit Holes: 44, each with unique features
  • Site size: 12 acres (4.8 hectares
  • Party tree age: Over 70 years old
  • Standard tour duration: Approximately 2 hours
  • Green Dragon Inn: Fully functional pub on-site
  • Average visitors: Thousands enjoy Hobbiton each year

Fun trivia about the Hobbiton movie set 

  • Beer at the Green Dragon is brewed exclusively for Hobbiton visitors.
  • Bag End’s oak tree has over 250,000 hand-painted leaves.
  • Each hobbit hole has unique touches, mailboxes, fences, or miniature garden décor.
  • The set uses real vegetables in its gardens, replanted seasonally.
  • Hobbiton has been featured in multiple films and continues to host festivals and events.

Stay updated on Hobbiton events and festivals.

Frequently asked questions about Hobbiton movie set facts

What is the Hobbiton Movie Set?

It’s the permanent film set built in Matamata, New Zealand, used for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, now open as a visitor attraction.

Is the Hobbiton Movie Set real?

Yes. Unlike temporary film sets, Hobbiton was rebuilt as a permanent location with real gardens, paths, and structures for visitors to explore.

How many hobbit holes are there in Hobbiton?

There are 44 hobbit holes scattered across the 12-acre movie set, each uniquely decorated to look authentic.

Can visitors go inside the hobbit holes?

Most are façades for photo opportunities, but a select few have interiors recreated for tours.

What’s special about the Party Tree?

The Party Tree is an actual 70-year-old tree central to the set — it hosted Bilbo’s birthday party scenes.

Is the Green Dragon Inn a working pub?

Yes. The Green Dragon Inn serves exclusive ales, ciders, and non-alcoholic drinks brewed just for Hobbiton visitors.

Who owns the Hobbiton Movie Set now?

It’s still located on the Alexander family farm in Waikato, which partners with tour operators to run the attraction.

How big is the Hobbiton Movie Set?

The set spans 12 acres of rolling farmland dotted with gardens, lakes, and paths.

Are there hidden details fans should look for?

Yes — from hand-painted mailboxes to working vegetable gardens, dozens of small touches make the Shire feel real.

Can you take a guided tour of Hobbiton?

Absolutely. Guided tours are the only way to visit; they include stories, filming facts, and access to key photo spots.

Read more

Hobbiton Movie Set Timings

Hobbiton Beer Festival

Hobbiton Movie Set Location

About Hobbiton