The Green Dragon Inn is an iconic part of the Hobbiton Movie Set in New Zealand.
Known for its warm ambiance, delicious ale, and traditional fare, the Green Dragon Inn is a must-visit destination for any fan of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved stories.
A Brief History of Hobbiton
The Hobbiton Movie Set is located on a picturesque family-run farm near Matamata in Waikato, New Zealand.
This enchanting site served as the filming location for both “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” film trilogies.
The set was originally built in 1999 when director Peter Jackson chose the Alexander family farm for its striking resemblance to the Shire, the fictional home of the Hobbits.
It includes several hobbit holes, gardens, the Party Tree, and other charming features.
After the filming of “The Lord of the Rings,” the set was partially dismantled.
However, it was rebuilt with more permanent materials in 2010 for “The Hobbit” films, transforming it into a lasting tribute to Tolkien’s work.
Today, it remains a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who want to experience a piece of Middle Earth.
The Green Dragon Inn
The Green Dragon Inn is a specific location within Hobbiton.
It is the village pub where Hobbits gather to socialize, drink ale, and share news.
The inn is famous for its warm, inviting atmosphere and traditional Hobbit fare.
In the movies, it serves as a cozy meeting place for characters like Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin.
From the cozy interior to the roaring fireplaces, every detail in the Inn is designed to transport visitors to the world of Hobbits.
Guided Tours And Special Experiences Within The Hobbiton
The Hobbiton Movie Set offers guided tours that provide a deep dive into the making of the films and the history of the set.
Highlights include visits to famous locations like Bagshot Row, the Party Tree, and Bilbo’s iconic home, Bag End.
Bagshot Row
Bagshot Row is a charming street in the village of Hobbiton, located in the Shire close to Bag End, the well-known residence of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins.
This narrow, winding lane is home to several hobbit holes, each built into the rolling hillside.
The homes feature the iconic round doors, flower-filled gardens, and tidy surroundings that make Hobbiton so enchanting.
The most notable residents of Bagshot Row include:
- Samwise Gamgee: The loyal friend and gardener of Frodo Baggins, Samwise Gamgee lived at Number 3, Bagshot Row, with his family. Sam is a central character in “The Lord of the Rings” and plays a crucial role in the quest to destroy the One Ring.
- The Gamgee Family: Sam’s parents, Hamfast (“Gaffer”) and Bell Gamgee, along with his siblings, also resided in Bagshot Row.
The Party Tree
In J.R.R. Tolkien’s novels “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings,” the Party Tree is a symbol of joy, community, and the simple pleasures of Hobbit life.
The Party Tree is a large, ancient tree located on the spacious field of the Party Field, near the center of Hobbiton.
This expansive green field, dotted with wildflowers and bordered by neat hedges, serves as the main gathering place for the Hobbits of Hobbiton.
The Party Tree is central to many of the Shire’s most memorable celebrations:
- Bilbo’s Eleventy-First Birthday Party: One of the most notable events in the story is Bilbo Baggins’ 111th (or eleventy-first) birthday party, which takes place under the Party Tree.
This grand celebration, featuring feasts, music, and fireworks, is a pivotal moment in “The Fellowship of the Ring.”
It is during this party that Bilbo mysteriously disappears, setting the stage for the epic journey that follows. - Community Gatherings: The Party Tree is not only a backdrop for grand events but also a cherished spot for everyday community gatherings.
The Hobbits often come together here for picnics, dances, and other joyous occasions, reflecting their love for merrymaking and camaraderie.
Bag End – Bilbo’s iconic home
Bag End is the underground home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, two of the most beloved characters in J.R.R. Tolkien’s novels, “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings.”
This hobbit-burrow is located in the Shire, specifically on the north side of the town of Hobbiton in the Westfarthing.
Director Peter Jackson brought Bag End to life by creating an elaborate film set in New Zealand for “The Lord of the Rings” film series.
This detailed recreation of Bag End allowed fans to see the iconic hobbit hole just as Tolkien imagined it.
The tour ends with a visit to the Green Dragon Inn, rounding off the experience with a taste of Hobbiton hospitality.
Beverages In The Green Dragon Inn
Guests can enjoy a complimentary beverage from the exclusive Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ range, which includes two traditional ales, a refreshing apple cider, and a non-alcoholic ginger beer.
All drinks are handcrafted and only available at Hobbiton.
The Green Dragon Inn offers a delightful menu of traditional dishes.
Whether you’re seated in a comfy armchair by the fire or enjoying the scenic views from the Beer Garden, the atmosphere promises a memorable visit.
Access to the Green Dragon Inn is only available as part of the guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set.
This ensures that every visitor gets the full experience of the Shire.
Additionally, the Inn can be booked for private functions, making it a unique venue for special events and celebrations.
In addition to regular tours, Hobbiton also hosts special events such as evening banquets, private functions, and even a half-marathon.
These events provide unique opportunities to enjoy the set in different ways, adding to the charm and allure of this magical destination.
Stay Overnight in Hobbiton
For the first time ever, visitors had the opportunity to stay overnight in Hobbiton as part of the tenth anniversary celebrations of “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.”
This exclusive experience included a private behind-the-scenes tour, an evening feast, and the chance to stay in a cozy Hobbit Hole.
Although this was a limited-time offer, it highlights the innovative and immersive experiences that Hobbiton continues to offer its guests.
