A Journey Through Tolkien-Inspired Locations in the UK
Welcome, adventurers! If you’re a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien’s works, you’ll know how the places he created are full of magic and wonder. Many of them were inspired by locations in the UK, and in this blog post, I’ll take a journey through these fantastical places. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of Middle-earth as we explore the beautiful landscapes and hidden gems that inspired Tolkien.
Oxford: The City of Dreaming Spires
Many of Tolkien’s literary works were inspired by Oxford, where he lived and taught at the university. You can visit the Bodleian Library, featured in the Harry Potter films and inspired by the Great Library of Minas Tirith in The Lord of the Rings. You can also visit the Eagle and Child pub, where Tolkien used to meet with fellow writers C.S. Lewis and Charles Williams, and where they discussed their works and shared their criticisms.
The Cotswolds: Rolling hills and charming villages
The Cotswold Hills, an area of outstanding natural beauty, was the inspiration for both the Shire and the Chilterns in The Hobbit. The rolling hills, thatched-roof cottages, and idyllic villages will transport you to the magical world of Middle-earth. Some locations that inspired Tolkien include Minster Lovell Hall and Cogges Manor Farm in Witney, which inspired the house of Tom Bombadil in The Lord of the Rings.
Puzzlewood: A mystical forest
Hidden in the Forest of Dean, Puzzlewood is a unique, ancient woodland that looks like it could be straight out of a fairy tale. The twisted tree roots and mysterious rock formations inspired the glades of Lothlórien, where Lady Galadriel reigns in The Lord of the Rings. Puzzlewood also served as a filming location for other fantasy works like Doctor Who, Merlin, and Star Wars.
Llyn y Fan Fach: A magical lake
In Wales, Llyn y Fan Fach is surrounded by a stunning natural amphitheater. It was the inspiration for the Mirror of Galadriel, which Frodo experiences in The Fellowship of the Ring. According to Welsh legend, the lake is home to a beautiful fairy who married a shepherd and had three sons, who became healers. So, the location is steeped in magic and folklore.
Kingley Vale: A place of ancient trees and myths
Kingley Vale, near Chichester in West Sussex, is home to an ancient yew forest that is said to be home to the Green Man. This figure appears in many mythologies, including Celtic and Arthurian legend, and has been incorporated into modern literature, including Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. Walking under the canopy of the old oaks and yews, it’s easy to imagine being transported into a different realm.
Although we may never be able to visit the world of Middle-earth, we can immerse ourselves in the magical and inspiring locations that inspired it.
The UK is full of hidden gems, from enchanted forests to ancient yew forests, that are just waiting to be explored. So if you’re a Tolkien fan or simply a lover of adventure, pack your bags and journey to these fantastical places. Get ready to create your own stories and make some unforgettable memories along the way.
EXPLORE A DARKER SIDE OF ROME
Rome is not only full of rich history and stunning/iconic views, but it also has a wicked and dark side that adds to the lore of this incredible city. Read more about the weird/wicked travel of Rome in my article: Weird Traveler- Rome.
