Honest Review: Hobbiton Afternoon Tour – Is It Worth It?

If you’re thinking about visiting the Hobbiton Movie Set in New Zealand, chances are you’re checking out all the different tour options. The “Hobbiton Only Afternoon Tour” sounds, well, kind of interesting, but is it really a good choice? So, I decided to find out and share my own experience with you. Hopefully, this will give you a better idea if it will float your boat too.

What Does the Hobbiton Only Afternoon Tour Include?

First things first, let’s talk about what you actually get. So, the Afternoon Tour is specifically a guided walking tour. As a matter of fact, they take you right into the heart of Hobbiton. It includes seeing those famous hobbit holes, the Party Tree, and then you wind up at the Green Dragon Inn for a complimentary drink. Now, you do not get transportation included from, let’s say, Rotorua or Auckland, it’s pretty much designed for people driving themselves. Just so you know, you really have to plan that part.

Basically, this afternoon trip provides access to the movie set. It’s more about seeing, like, where they brought the Shire to life for “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” movies. Plus, a lot of people actually want to chill in the Green Dragon Inn, which might be, really, a reason for the tour itself.

The Good Stuff: What Makes the Afternoon Tour Great?

Okay, here’s what I liked. Frankly, the scenery is simply gorgeous. If you are anything like me, as a fan of the movies, wandering through Hobbiton will feel surreal. And that late afternoon sunlight? Honestly, it makes those green hills and colorful hobbit holes pop in some amazing ways. It could be the ideal light for taking photos, if you are into it. I sort of am.

Moreover, the included drink at the Green Dragon Inn can feel, actually, like a warm reward after strolling around. Also, the atmosphere in there? Very cozy. To be honest, it’s styled very similar to what you picture from the films. Chatting with others and just soaking up the vibe is cool, arguably. And that tour guides they get for these things seem to know a fair bit of movie trivia and Shire backstory that they usually like to share. It might be appealing for die-hard fans to be getting those nuggets of information.

Potential Downsides: What to Consider

Of course, not everything is perfect, virtually. You need to take things into consideration. Like for example, that afternoon is, quite possibly, the busiest time, and you may share the set with tons of other visitors. Taking that picturesque, crowd-free shot? That might be hard, to be perfectly honest. I have noticed this when I went. It’s that popular! Also, since it’s “Hobbiton Only,” there isn’t more stuff combined like a farm tour or lunch like some of the tours provide.

By the way, it all really depends on what you’re searching for. Frankly, without your own vehicle, it can be very difficult to make the trip to Matamata. Also, make sure that if you are using a GPS, it’s correct because some services have given some people in the past wrong instructions that have resulted in them going somewhere that’s incorrect.

Who is This Tour Best For?

In my estimation, this tour will hit a certain demographic. Basically, “Lord of the Rings” superfans who just must be there and see it with their own eyes. Also, people who find the idea of ending the tour with a drink in the Green Dragon pretty cool may like this. Very similarly to folks driving and on more of a budget and who want to just do the essentials. Basically, if you wish to skip, arguably, those add-ons or extra things.

In contrast to going to the tour with smaller children for example. Or somebody that really is restricted with time as there can be delays at busy hours with transportation in and around. To be honest it’s not ideal in certain circumstances. In the same way that the morning trip allows people a cooler climate with some degree less of crowds and people wanting photos!

Making the Most of Your Afternoon in Hobbiton

So, some handy tips if you do go, actually. Reserving your spot way in advance is a really good move. In other words, it’s popular, but booking makes the day less tense if they have tickets. When you’re taking photos, you may want to take your patience. Then again, it is very tempting to grab the best shot. Wear comfy shoes too; as I was saying, you are walking around a fair bit! To be honest, make time in the Green Dragon to, possibly, try one of their special brews. Then you can just soak in the surroundings too. Also, I’ve done it.

Is the Hobbiton Only Afternoon Tour Worth It? A Final Thought

To sum it all up, if you are really up for being among the rolling green hills and experiencing some movie magic, this Hobbiton Afternoon Tour could easily hit the mark. After all, if you like, keep some of those possible negatives, really, in mind before deciding, really. Also, just to make the experience everything that you wanted. And, I mean, how cool will it be for your holidays to walk the set of one of cinema’s largest hits?

Key Takeaways:

• Ideal afternoon timeframe and available on short notice, sort of
• You do want to make your own way there. It could be far if you are visiting around Auckland or another city.
• Booking tickets are basically required to guarantee admission!
• Great experience at the end to hang at the tavern there and drink like a hobbit, essentially.