10 Film and Television Filming Locations Open to the Public

3. The Hobbiton Movie Set - A Permanent Slice of Middle-earth

Located in the lush countryside of Matamata, New Zealand, the Hobbiton Movie Set represents one of the most meticulously preserved filming locations in cinematic history, offering visitors an authentic journey into J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth. Originally constructed for Peter Jackson's "Lord of the Rings" trilogy and later rebuilt for "The Hobbit" films, this 12-acre set features 44 hobbit holes of varying sizes, each uniquely designed and permanently maintained to capture the whimsical essence of the Shire. The attention to detail is extraordinary, from the working vegetable gardens that supply the Green Dragon Inn to the carefully tended flowers and herbs that bloom year-round, creating an immersive environment that feels genuinely lived-in rather than artificially constructed. Visitors can explore Bag End, Bilbo and Frodo's iconic home, peer into the various hobbit holes with their round doors and windows, and enjoy a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn, which serves as both a filming location and a fully functional tavern. The guided tours, led by knowledgeable local guides, reveal fascinating production secrets, including how forced perspective was used to create the illusion of different-sized characters and how the set was designed to withstand New Zealand's changing weather conditions. The permanent nature of this installation, maintained by a dedicated team of groundskeepers and horticulturists, ensures that every visit captures the magic and wonder that made the films so beloved, while the surrounding Waikato farmland provides the same pastoral beauty that served as the backdrop for the Shire's peaceful existence.