Lord of the Rings fans are spoilt for choice with 10 UK destinations that “transport” you to Middle Earth – without the cost and effort of a flight to New Zealand where the film adaptations were made
Jess Flaherty Senior News Reporter
07:07, 09 Mar 2026
There’s plenty of scenic spots in the UK that bear a resemblance to the famous Middle Earth locations of The Lord of The Rings franchise (stock image)(Image: WLDavies via Getty Images)
Fans of The Lord of the Rings could be in for a treat, with 10 locations right here in the UK that “transport you to Middle Earth”.
The beloved trilogy, penned by JRR Tolkien, introduced countless fans to a fantastical world brimming with hobbits, elves, wizards and a host of other magical – and terrifying – creatures. Renowned filmmaker Peter Jackson famously brought the trilogy to life on the big screen, utilising his native New Zealand to recreate many of the iconic locations so vividly depicted in the best-selling book series.
If you don’t have the resources or the time to jet off halfway around the globe to immerse yourself in the world of The Lord of the Rings, there are plenty of picturesque spots right here in the UK that fit the bill.
Content creators Emily and Lucy, who have a passion for hiking and promoting local destinations, recently shared a carousel of images on Instagram showcasing 10 locations that bear a resemblance to Middle Earth.
In the caption accompanying their photos, they wrote: “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.”
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 renowned trail, located in Powys, Wales, is famous for its winding shape which invites comparisons to mythical creatures.
It’s steep and challenging but provides stunning, panoramic 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 is located in a steep limestone crag, in the scenic Peak District. It has an instantly recognisable arched entrance, and provides spectacular views across the valley.
Content cannot be displayed without consentYorkshire Moors
Middle Earth inspiration: Rohan
The hikers continued: “Picture the Rohirrim army led by King Theodon riding to battle across these wild moors.”
Atmospheric, brooding and expansive, the Yorkshire Moors are renowned for their beauty. In North Yorkshire, this tourist destination is home to one of Britain’s largest stretches of heather moorland.
Gordale Scar
Gordale Scar can be found in Yorkshire(Image: by Andrea Pucci via Getty Images)
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 is situated 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 celebrated 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 landmark in Edinburgh, it’s the principal peak of a group of hills that draw countless tourists and locals alike.
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 renowned, ancient woodland can be found in Nottinghamshire.
Lud’s Church
Middle Earth inspiration: Shelob’s Lair
The LOTR enthusiasts said: “This eerie cavern has been the setting for many a spooky folktale – so why not a giant spider waiting to lure you in?”
Located in Buxton, this atmospheric spot is a deep, moss-covered abyss 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 discovered 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
The famed Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland(Image: Francesco Riccardo Iacomino via Getty Images)
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 celebrated nature reserve is situated in Northern Ireland and holds designated World Heritage Site status. An extraordinary natural phenomenon, its 40,000 interlocking basalt columns create a fascinating spectacle.