Many places here in the UK look straight out of the pages of The Lord of The Rings (stock image) (Image: Getty)
The Lord of the Rings fans may be in luck, with 10 destinations right here in the UK that “transport you to Middle Earth”. The epic, JRR Tolkien-penned trilogy exposed legions of fans to a fantastical world of hobbits, elves, wizards and many more magical – and frightening – creatures.
Acclaimed filmmaker Peter Jackson famously brought the trilogy to life on the silver screen, using his native New Zealand to create many of the famous locations so vividly described in the best-selling book series.
If you’ve not got the funds or the time to jet off to the other side of the world to experience the world of The Lord of the Rings, there’s plenty of scenic places right here in the UK that hit the spot.
Content creators Emily and Lucy, who are passionate about hiking and showcasing local destinations to the masses, recently posted a carousel of images to Instagram highlighting 10 locations which bear a striking resemblance to Middle Earth.
In the caption accompanying their images, they added: “Hiking through The Shire, Misty Mountains and Mordor just like Frodo and Sam – let’s transport you to Middle Earth right here in the UK.
“Just to be clear, this is our personal interpretation and imaginative comparison – not a documented statement about Tolkien’s real-life inspirations. »
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Dragon’s Back
Middle Earth inspiration: The Shire
Emily and Lucy said: “The iconic landscape looks like sleeping Smaug the dragon from The Hobbit. » This famous trail, found in Powys, Wales, is famous for its winding shape which often draws comparisons to mythical beasts.
It’s steep and tricky but offers impressive, sweeping views of the Welsh countryside.
Thor’s Cave
Middle Earth inspiration: Gollum’s Cave
The girls said: “Smeagol would love hiding away in this ancient cave high in the misty mountains with his Precious.”
This natural cavern can be found in a steep limestone crag, in the picturesque Peak District. It boasts an instantly recognisable arched entrance, and offers impressive views out to the valley.
Yorkshire Moors
Middle Earth inspiration: Rohan
The hikers continued: “Picture the Rohirrim army led by King Theodon riding to battle across these wild moors.”
Moody, atmospheric and vast, the Yorkshire Moors are famous for their beauty. Based in North Yorkshire, the tourist hotspot is home to one of the largest expanses of heather moorland in the country.
Gordale Scar
Middle Earth inspiration: Helm’s Deep
Emily and Lucy said: “It’s rumoured that JRR Tolkien did actually visit and draw inspiration from this place for his fortress built within a gorge with a stream running through.”
This limestone ravine can be found near Malham in North Yorkshire.
Pooles Cavern
Middle Earth inspiration: Mines of Moria
The nature fans said: “What lurks in the deep? A balrog? An army of orcs? Probably just some natural limestone and a gift shop [to be honest].”
A historic landmark and famed tourist attraction “known as one of the finest caves in Derbyshire”.
Arthur’s Seat
Middle Earth inspiration: Mordor
They said: “Hard to imagine but this was once an active volcano – the perfect place to cast the One Ring into the fire!!”
An incredibly famous spot in Edinburgh, it’s the main peak of a group of hills that attract countless tourists and locals alike.
Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh, Scotland (Image: Getty)
Sherwood Forest
Middle Earth inspiration: Fangorn Forest
They explained: “This legendary place, once Robin Hood’s stomping ground, could also have been home to the giant Ents. The Major Oak pictured below is thought to be 1,100 years old!! Can you imagine it coming to life?”
This famous, ancient woodland can be found in Nottinghamshire.
Lud’s Church
Middle Earth inspiration: Shelob’s Lair
The LOTR fans said: “This eerie cavern has been the setting for many a spooky folktale – so why not a giant spider waiting to lure you in?”
Based in Buxton, this atmospheric destination is a deep, moss-covered chasm steeped in history and myths.
Old East Buxton Lime Kiln
Middle Earth inspiration: Minas Tirith
The hikers conceded: “Okay, okay! It may not be as grand as Boromir’s home and capital city but with a little imagination, you could explore this abandoned kiln as the rightful King of Gondor.”
These Derbyshire-based industrial heritage structures can be found along the Peak District’s trail and make for a popular hiking spot. They were used for converting limestone into quicklime.
The Giant’s Causeway
Middle Earth inspiration: Mount Doom
Emily and Lucy added: “A little cheat as we’ve already covered Mordor but another tribute to a once active volcano but in Northern Ireland! When it erupted thousands of years ago, it formed these hexagonal pillars.”
This iconic and renowned nature reserve is based in Northern Ireland and is a designated World Heritage Site. An unusual natural phenomenon, its 40,000 interlocking basalt columns make for an intriguing sight.
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